Description
This Maryland-style Crab Dip is a rich, creamy appetizer featuring fresh lump crab meat, sharp cheddar, and classic Old Bay seasoning, baked to perfection until hot and bubbly. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces (226g) full-fat brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/4 cup (60g) mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream
- 1 and 1/4 cups (155g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 and 3/4 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 pound fresh lump crab meat
- Optional: 2 dashes of hot sauce (or to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (191°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the crab dip.
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, use a handheld or stand mixer with a paddle attachment to beat the softened cream cheese on medium-high speed until it becomes smooth and creamy, about 1 minute.
- Mix Ingredients: Add mayonnaise, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, ground mustard, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and optional hot sauce to the cream cheese. Beat everything on medium-high speed until well combined. Then gently fold in the lump crab meat using a spoon or silicone spatula, being careful not to break up the crab too much. Taste and adjust hot sauce if desired.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture to a 9-inch or slightly larger baking pan, pie dish, or oven-safe skillet. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake the Dip: Bake uncovered for 25 minutes or until the dip is hot and bubbly around the edges, and the cheese on top is melted and slightly browned.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and serve the crab dip warm with crackers, bread, or veggies.
- Store Leftovers: Cover any leftovers and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or a 350°F (177°C) oven until warmed through before serving again.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Use fresh lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture.
- Old Bay seasoning is essential for that classic Maryland crab taste—don’t skip it.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your taste preferences or omit it for a milder dip.
- This dip pairs wonderfully with toasted bread, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks.
- Reheating gently in the oven helps maintain the creamy texture without drying it out.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Maryland Crab Dip, Crab Dip, Baked Crab Dip, Appetizer, Old Bay Seasoning, Seafood Dip
