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Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip

A delightful creamy and cheesy dip packed with tender lump crab meat, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Seafood
Keyword: Cheesy Dip, comfort food, Crab Dip, Crowd-Pleaser
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 200kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz softened cream cheese (or Neufchatel) The base of the dip, making it creamy.
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise Rich and velvety, binding all ingredients.
  • 1/2 cup regular or light sour cream Provides creaminess and a slight tang.
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese Creamy and full of flavor.
  • 12 oz canned lump crab meat (two 6 oz cans) The star of the show, tender and succulent.

Additional Ingredients

  • 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce Adds depth and a hint of tang.
  • 1 tbsp grated white onion Adds a subtle crunch and sweetness.
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped Italian parsley For a burst of color and freshness.
  • 1/2 lemon Juice of 1/2 lemon Brightens flavors with its citrusy zing.
  • 1 tsp all-purpose seasoning salt Elevates the overall flavor profile.
  • to taste Tabasco sauce Adds a kick of heat, adjustable to preference.
  • to taste Freshly ground black pepper Enhances the richness of the dip.
  • Crackers, tortilla chips, or baguette slices Perfect vehicles for dipping.

Instructions

Oven Method

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
  • Stir in the lump crab meat, shredded cheese, grated onion, lemon juice, chopped parsley, Worcestershire sauce, all-purpose seasoning salt, freshly ground black pepper, and Tabasco. Mix well.
  • Spoon the mixture into a small baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  • Bake for about 25–30 minutes until the dip is hot and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
  • Serve warm with crackers, tortilla chips, or baguette slices.

Slow Cooker Method

  • Place all the ingredients in a 3–4 quart slow cooker.
  • Stir thoroughly to combine all the ingredients evenly.
  • Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 2 hours.
  • After 2 hours, stir again and cook for an additional 15–20 minutes.
  • You can set the slow cooker to the WARM setting for up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
  • Serve with your favorite dippers.

Notes

For enhanced flavor, consider adding smoked paprika, diced bell peppers, or switching crab for shrimp. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.