The Best Hot Crab Dip is the ultimate party appetizer – rich, creamy, and bursting with fresh seafood flavor. Warm from the oven and bubbling with melted cheese, this dip is irresistibly indulgent and perfect for sharing. Every scoop delivers the sweetness of crab meat, the smoothness of cream cheese, and the bold flavor of spices and herbs that bring everything together. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast at any gathering, leaving guests asking for the recipe.
The base of this dip starts with cream cheese and mayonnaise, which create a smooth, velvety texture that holds up beautifully when baked. Lump crab meat adds sweetness and a delicate, flaky texture that feels luxurious in every bite. A mix of shredded cheeses, typically mozzarella, Parmesan, or cheddar, adds depth and that irresistible melty pull. Garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of Old Bay seasoning round out the flavor, balancing the richness with bright, savory notes.
When baked until golden and bubbly, the top develops a slightly crisp layer of cheese while the inside stays warm and creamy. The aroma alone is enough to draw everyone to the table. This dip pairs beautifully with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or crisp vegetables like celery and bell pepper for a lighter touch.
What makes this recipe truly the best is its balance, rich but not heavy, creamy but not bland. The flavor of the crab shines through, supported by just the right amount of spice and acidity. It’s elegant enough for a dinner party yet simple enough for game day. You can even prepare it ahead of time, then bake it fresh when guests arrive.
The Best Hot Crab Dip is more than just an appetizer, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that captures the comfort and luxury of seafood in one warm, creamy dish. Whether served at a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, this dip sets the tone for good food, good company, and unforgettable moments.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup mayonnaise full-fat recommended
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1 lb lump crab meat picked over for shells
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 cloves garlic minced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and garlic until well combined.
- Gently fold in the lump crab meat, taking care not to break up the chunks of crab too much.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the top with shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve hot with crackers, bread, or veggies for dipping.
Nutrition
Very good! I loved it! A keeper for my family gatherings. Will make again!
Yummy!! 🦀❤️
I made this for a party and it was gone in minutes! Everyone loved it! 5 stars!
I’m a little skeptical about using that much mayo, but I guess we’ll see. Hoping for the best!
I know what you mean! Mayo can be a lot. But it might just add that creamy goodness! Fingers crossed!
Eh… I don’t know. Not as good as my grandma’s recipe. Might try it again with a twist.
This was ok, but I think it could use more seasoning. I added some hot sauce and it was better.
I totally agree! A bit more seasoning would have made it perfect. Hot sauce was a smart move!
Can you use a different type of cheese? I don’t like Parmesan much.
Absolutely delicious! I could eat this every day! Love the crab in it!
Too much creaminess for me. Felt kinda heavy. But some of my friends liked it a lot.
I get what you mean! It is a bit rich. Maybe try a lighter version next time?
Creaminess is the point of a dip, right? More for me! 😋