Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip Recipe

Introduction

Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip is a creamy, cheesy seafood delight perfect for parties or cozy nights in. This warm dip features tender lump crabmeat blended with rich cheeses and spices, baked to golden perfection. Serve it with your favorite crackers or fresh veggies for an irresistible appetizer.

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 lb lump crabmeat, drained and picked over for shells
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, beat together cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream until smooth.
3. Step 3: Stir in cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
4. Step 4: Gently fold in the crabmeat, being careful not to break up the lumps.
5. Step 5: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
6. Step 6: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
7. Step 7: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm with crackers, bread, or vegetables.

Tips & Variations

• For a spicier dip, add a few dashes of hot sauce or increase the cayenne pepper slightly.
• Swap lump crabmeat with imitation crab for a budget-friendly alternative.
• Use cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dip.
• Try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for bright, tangy flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the crab dip in advance?

Yes, you can mix all ingredients and store the uncooked dip in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This helps flavors meld and saves time on the day of serving.

What should I serve with crab dip?

Crab dip pairs wonderfully with crackers, toasted bread slices, pita chips, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery and bell peppers for dipping.

Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 108 reviews

Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip is a rich and creamy appetizer featuring lump crabmeat blended with cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and a blend of cheeses and spices. Baked until bubbly and golden, this dip is perfect for serving warm alongside crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables.

• Author: Viktoria
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream

Cheeses & Seasonings

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Seafood

• 1 lb lump crabmeat, drained and picked over for shells

Garnish

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the dip.
2. Mix Creamy Base: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Add Cheeses and Spices: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Fold in Crabmeat: Gently fold the lump crabmeat into the mixture carefully to avoid breaking up the lumps and maintain texture.
5. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the crab mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake Dip: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and optionally sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. Serve the crab dip warm with crackers, bread, or vegetables for dipping.

Notes

• Make sure to pick over the crabmeat carefully to remove any shell fragments for a smooth eating experience.
• You can substitute lump crabmeat with imitation crabmeat for a more budget-friendly option, though fresh crab is recommended for best flavor.
• This dip can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to baking time if chilled.
• Adjust cayenne pepper and black pepper quantities for desired heat level.
• Serve with an assortment of dippers like toasted baguette slices, celery sticks, or crackers.

Keywords: crab dip, Joe’s Crab Shack, creamy crab dip, baked crab appetizer, seafood dip