Addictive Crab Dip – Creamy, Cheesy & Perfectly Irresistible Party Favorite

Addictive Crab Dip – Creamy, Cheesy & Perfectly Irresistible Party Favorite

This Addictive Crab Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer — creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender crab meat and savory seasonings that keep everyone coming back for “just one more bite.” Whether you’re hosting a party, game night, or holiday gathering, this dip delivers rich, buttery flavor in every scoop. It’s perfectly baked (or served warm from the stovetop), with a golden crust of bubbling cheese and a luscious interior that melts into every cracker, chip, or piece of crusty bread. One taste, and you’ll understand exactly why it’s called addictive.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Servings: 6 Servings

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

8 oz 225 g cream cheese, softened
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 can 6–8 oz lump crab meat, drained
1 green onion finely chopped
1 garlic clove minced
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning or to taste
Juice of ½ lemon
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnish: chopped parsley chives, or a sprinkle of paprika

Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking dish or oven-safe skillet
Spoon or spatula
Oven (or slow cooker for warm-serve version)
Hand mixer (optional, for smoother texture)

Method

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream.
Beat or stir until smooth and creamy.
Add minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and Old Bay seasoning. Mix well.

Step 3: Add the Crab & Cheese

Fold in the crab meat gently (don’t overmix — you want those tender chunks!).
Add mozzarella, parmesan, and green onions, stirring until everything is evenly incorporated.
💡 Pro Tip: Taste the mixture before baking and adjust seasoning — a little extra Old Bay or lemon can elevate the flavor beautifully.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Spread the dip evenly in your prepared baking dish.
Top with a little extra mozzarella and parmesan for that signature cheesy crust.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbling and lightly golden on top.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with parsley or paprika.
Serve warm with crackers, crostini, pita chips, or fresh veggies.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in the microwave in short bursts.

Freeze: Not recommended — the creamy base can separate when thawed.

🥄 Variations

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños, cayenne, or a few drops of hot sauce.

Cheesy Explosion: Mix in sharp cheddar or pepper jack for extra depth.

Garlic Butter Twist: Sauté garlic in butter before mixing for a richer base.

Seafood Medley: Add shrimp or lobster for a luxurious spin.

Cold Crab Dip: Skip baking — chill the mixture for a refreshing summer version.

Bacon Lovers’ Version: Add crumbled crispy bacon for a smoky, salty crunch.

Buffalo Style: Mix in buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles for a spicy twist.

Asian-Inspired: Stir in a splash of soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions.

Cajun Crab Dip: Swap Old Bay for Cajun seasoning and top with sliced jalapeños.

Bread Bowl Dip: Hollow out a round loaf of sourdough and bake the dip right inside.

❓ 10 FAQs

Can I use imitation crab?
Yes — it works fine, though lump crab gives a richer flavor and texture.

Can I make this dip ahead?
Absolutely — prepare and refrigerate, then bake right before serving.

Can I serve it cold?
Yes — it’s delicious both hot and chilled.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, it adds tang and lightens the texture slightly.

Can I cook it on the stovetop?
Yes — heat on low until bubbly, stirring frequently.

Can I double the recipe for parties?
Definitely — just use a larger dish and bake a few minutes longer.

What’s the best crab to use?
Lump crab or claw meat offers the best flavor and bite.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes — cook on low for 2 hours and stir before serving.

Can I add spinach or artichokes?
Absolutely — it turns into a creamy crab-spinach dip hybrid.

Can I serve this with bread?
Yes — toasted baguette slices or sourdough rounds work perfectly.

🏁 Conclusion

This Addictive Crab Dip is everything a party appetizer should be — rich, cheesy, and impossibly flavorful. The creamy blend of crab, cheese, and spices creates a luxurious texture that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.

Whether served warm and bubbling or chilled and creamy, it’s guaranteed to be the dish that disappears first from your table.