Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hot Crab Dip is a classic appetizer that never fails to impress guests. Creamy, rich, and packed with tender crab meat, this dip delivers bold flavor in every bite. I often make this recipe when I need a dependable crowd-pleaser, and it is always one of the first dishes to disappear. The combination of cream cheese, melted cheese, and savory seasonings creates a smooth, comforting texture, while the crab adds a touch of elegance. It feels indulgent without being overly complicated, making it perfect for holidays, game days, or casual gatherings. What I especially appreciate is how easy it is to prepare ahead of time and bake just before serving. Served warm with crackers or bread, this Hot Crab Dip is the kind of appetizer people ask for again and again.
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Hot Crab Dip That Is Creamy, Cheesy, and Perfect for Entertaining
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A rich and creamy hot crab dip made with tender crab meat, cream cheese, sour cream, and savory seasonings, baked until bubbly and golden.
Ingredients
- 225 g cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 200 g lump crab meat, drained and picked
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Add garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Fold in crab meat, half of the mozzarella, parmesan cheese, and green onions.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until hot and bubbly with a lightly golden top.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Serve with crackers, toasted bread, or vegetables.
- Use lump crab meat for best texture.
- Can be prepared ahead and baked before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Crab meat
Crab meat is the star of the dip, providing delicate flavor and tender texture. Lump or claw meat both work well.
Cream cheese
Cream cheese forms the creamy base and gives the dip its rich consistency.
Sour cream
Sour cream adds tanginess and helps lighten the texture of the dip.
Mayonnaise
Mayonnaise enhances creaminess and adds depth of flavor.
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Mozzarella melts smoothly and creates a stretchy, cheesy finish.
Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds sharpness and balances the richness of the other ingredients.
Garlic
Garlic brings savory warmth and enhances the crab flavor.
Old Bay seasoning
This seasoning adds classic seafood flavor and subtle spice.
Lemon juice
Lemon juice brightens the dip and balances the richness.
Salt
Salt enhances all the flavors without overpowering the crab.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds gentle heat and depth.
Fresh parsley
Parsley adds freshness and color just before serving.
Directions
Begin by preheating the oven and lightly greasing a baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy.
Add the garlic, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper, mixing until evenly incorporated. Gently fold in the crab meat, taking care not to break it up too much. Stir in most of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, reserving a small amount for topping.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top. Bake until the dip is hot, bubbly, and lightly golden on top. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately while warm.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves 6 to 8 people as an appetizer. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with a baking time of approximately 25 minutes.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring gently to maintain creaminess.
Variations and Customizations
Hot Crab Dip is easy to customize to suit your taste. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños. You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a slightly lighter dip. If you enjoy extra seafood flavor, mix in small cooked shrimp or lobster. For a richer topping, add a layer of buttery breadcrumbs before baking. Each variation keeps the dip creamy and flavorful while offering a unique twist.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This dip contains dairy and shellfish. It is rich and best enjoyed in moderate portions. Gluten-free crackers or vegetables can be served alongside for gluten-free diets.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Use Softened Cream Cheese
Softened cream cheese ensures a smooth, lump-free dip.
Do Not Overmix Crab
Gentle folding keeps the crab pieces intact.
Bake Until Bubbly
A hot, bubbly center ensures the dip is fully heated.
Serve Immediately
Hot crab dip is best enjoyed fresh from the oven.
FAQs
Can I make hot crab dip ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dip, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
What type of crab meat works best?
Lump or claw crab meat both work well.
Can I freeze hot crab dip?
Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
Can I use canned crab meat?
Yes, drain it well before using.
Is this dip spicy?
No, it is mild, but spice can be added easily.
What should I serve with hot crab dip?
Crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetables work well.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, heat on low until hot and bubbly, stirring occasionally.
Can I use reduced-fat ingredients?
Yes, but the dip may be slightly less creamy.
How do I keep the dip warm for serving?
Use a warming tray or slow cooker on low.
Can I add extra cheese?
Yes, extra cheese can be added for a richer dip.
Conclusion
Hot Crab Dip is a creamy, comforting appetizer that brings classic seafood flavor to any gathering. Easy to prepare and always popular, this recipe is perfect for entertaining and guaranteed to keep guests coming back for more.
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