Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip Recipe
Introduction
Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip is a creamy, flavorful appetizer perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Packed with tender lump crab meat and savory seasonings, this dip bakes to a bubbly, golden finish that pairs wonderfully with crackers or fresh veggies.

Ingredients
- 1 cup lump crab meat (fresh or canned, picked through for shells)
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Blend until smooth and creamy using a hand mixer or whisk.
- Step 3: Stir in Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 4: Gently fold in the crab meat to keep the lumps intact. Add half of the shredded cheese and mix lightly.
- Step 5: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
- Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is hot and bubbly, and the cheese is golden brown.
- Step 7: Sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.
- Step 8: Serve warm with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh veggies.
Tips & Variations
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the dip.
- Swap the shredded cheese for pepper jack for extra flavor or use a blend of your favorites.
- Use fresh lump crab meat when possible for the best texture and taste.
- Serve the dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a creative presentation.
Storage
Store leftover crab dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use imitation crab meat in this recipe?
While imitation crab meat can be used, the flavor and texture won’t be as rich or authentic as lump crab meat. For the best results, stick with real crab if possible.
Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dip a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. Bake it just before serving for the best freshness and warmth.
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Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip is a creamy, cheesy appetizer packed with lump crab meat and seasoned with Old Bay for a classic seafood flavor. Perfectly baked to a golden bubbly finish, this dip is ideal for parties, gatherings, or a delicious snack served warm with crackers or fresh veggies.
Ingredients
Crab Dip Ingredients
- 1 cup lump crab meat (fresh or canned, picked through for shells)
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prepare it for the crab dip.
- Mix Creamy Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Blend these with a hand mixer or whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Season the Mixture: Stir in the Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed to suit your preference.
- Add Crab Meat and Cheese: Gently fold in the lump crab meat carefully to keep the lumps intact. Then, add half of the shredded cheese and mix lightly to incorporate.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the crab mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top for a melty, golden crust.
- Bake the Dip: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is hot and bubbly and the cheese on top turns golden brown.
- Garnish: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with the chopped green onions for color and fresh flavor.
- Serve: Serve the crab dip warm with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- Use lump crab meat for the best texture, but canned crab meat is also a convenient option.
- Adjust Old Bay seasoning according to your spice preference.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure a smooth mixture.
- This dip can be prepared ahead of time, covered, and refrigerated until ready to bake.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: crab dip, seafood appetizer, baked crab dip, Joe’s Crab Shack recipe, party dip, creamy crab dip

