Hot Crab Dip Recipe

There’s something undeniably luxurious yet comforting about a bubbling dish of hot crab dip fresh from the oven. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, attending a potluck, or simply treating yourself to something rich and flavorful, this baked crab dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It combines creamy ingredients with the delicate sweetness of lump crab meat and a hint of spice, creating a decadent appetizer that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

This dip is best served warm and pairs beautifully with crispy crostini, toasted baguette slices, crackers, or tortilla chips. It’s a great way to elevate your appetizer game for holiday parties, game days, or weekend get-togethers. The recipe is easy to adapt — you can make it milder or spicier depending on your crowd, and the blend of cheeses makes it irresistibly gooey and rich. With a golden, cheesy crust on top and a smooth, savory interior, each scoop delivers a bit of everything.

Servings: 8

Ingredients

  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup additional shredded Parmesan cheese (for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon sliced green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream until smooth.
  3. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, lemon juice, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper until well blended.
  4. Gently fold in the lump crab meat to avoid breaking it up too much.
  5. Transfer the mixture into a 1-quart oven-safe baking dish and smooth the top.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  7. Bake uncovered for 25–35 minutes, or until the dip is golden and bubbling around the edges.
  8. Remove from the oven and garnish with sliced green onions.
  9. Serve hot with your favorite dippers like tortilla chips or toasted bread.

Nutritional Notes & Dietary Considerations

This crab dip is rich in protein thanks to the generous amount of crab meat. The cheese and creamy base add fat and calcium, making it indulgent but satisfying. It’s not low in calories, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation. Those with seafood or dairy allergies should avoid this dish, and it’s not suitable for a vegan or low-fat diet. You can reduce the fat content by using light versions of mayo, sour cream, and cream cheese if desired.

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If this hot crab dip recipe brought some flavor to your table, we’d love to hear from you! Share your experience in the comments, tell us how you served it, or pass it along to a friend who loves a good appetizer. Your support helps keep delicious ideas flowing!