This Cheesy Hot Crab Dip is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with delicious crab for a tasty treat perfect for sharing.
Honestly, I can’t resist dipping crispy chips into this goodness. It’s a crowd-pleaser at parties, and I love how easy it is to whip up. Bring on the leftovers—if there are any! 🦀❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This provides the creamy base of the dip. You can use a low-fat version for a lighter option or even Neufchâtel cheese as a substitute.
Cheddar and Monterey Jack Cheese: Both add richness. If you’re looking for something sharper, use extra-sharp cheddar. For a non-dairy option, try vegan cheese shreds.
Mayonnaise: It keeps the dip creamy and adds flavor. If you want a healthier twist, use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise.
Crab Meat: Always go for lump crab for the best texture. I also love using canned if fresh isn’t available. You can even swap it out for shredded chicken or cooked shrimp if you prefer.
Green Onions: They add a nice freshness. Chives make a great substitute if you’re short on green onions.
How Do I Ensure My Dip Is Extra Creamy?
The key to a creamy dip lies in how you combine the ingredients. Start with softened cream cheese to avoid lumps—this will make mixing smoother. Use a hand mixer if needed to create a perfectly blended base. Don’t rush the mixing!
- Mix the cream cheese and other wet ingredients first until everything is smooth.
- Gradually stir in the cheeses, ensuring an even distribution.
- Gently fold in the crab meat at the end to keep the lumps intact.
This method ensures that every bite is cheesy and creamy without any clumps, making it delightful on crackers or toasted bread!
Cheesy Hot Crab Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup lump crab meat, drained and picked over for shells
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crackers or toasted bread for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cheesy Hot Crab Dip takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake, for a total of around 40 minutes. It’s quick to put together and will be ready to enjoy before you know it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your dip is perfectly baked when you’re ready to put it in!
2. Mix the Base:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, hot sauce, and lemon juice. Mix these ingredients until everything is nice and smooth. Use a spatula or a mixer if you prefer—just make sure it’s well blended!
3. Add the Cheeses:
Next, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses into your creamy mixture. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated. The cheesy goodness is coming together!
4. Fold in Crab and Green Onions:
Now it’s time to gently fold in your lump crab meat and the sliced green onions. This helps keep the crab meat intact while ensuring that every bite has that delicious crab flavor. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer your crab mixture to a greased baking dish or an oven-safe casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. This will help it cook evenly and make it easier to scoop out later.
6. Bake Your Dip:
Place your dip in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbling with a golden top. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
7. Optional Broiling:
If you want an extra golden and slightly crispy top, you can broil the dip for an additional 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it—broiling goes fast, and we don’t want to burn it!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done, remove the dip from the oven, garnish with extra sliced green onions, and serve warm with crackers or toasted bread. Enjoy every cheesy, bubbly bite!
Deliciousness awaits with your Cheesy Hot Crab Dip! Enjoy your gathering or quiet night in with this tasty treat.
Can I Use Imitation Crab Meat Instead of Lump Crab?
Absolutely! Imitation crab meat is a cost-effective substitute. Just keep in mind it has a slightly different flavor and texture, but it will still taste delicious in the dip.
Can I Make This Dip in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day ahead! Just follow the steps up until transferring it to the baking dish. Cover it and refrigerate, then bake it when you’re ready. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
How Do I Store Leftover Dip?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Freeze Cheesy Hot Crab Dip?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed. Note that the texture may vary slightly after freezing.
