Description
This Hot Crab Dip is a rich, creamy appetizer perfect for parties or cozy nights in. Featuring lump crab meat blended with cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and a perfect mix of spices and cheeses, it’s baked to golden perfection and served warm with crackers, bread, or veggies.
Ingredients
Scale
Crab Dip Base
- 16 ounces lump crab meat
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup cheddar cheese
- ½ lemon (juiced)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons Old Bay Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (Tabasco or Crystal)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Topping and Garnish
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- Green onion (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Mix: Preheat your oven to 400℉. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except the lump crab meat and Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly until smooth and uniform.
- Add Crab Meat: Gently fold in the lump crab meat, being careful to keep the chunks intact while ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
- Bake the Dip: Transfer the mixture into an 8-inch ovenproof skillet or a 9-inch pie plate, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 25 minutes until the dip is hot and bubbling.
- Broil with Parmesan: Remove from oven and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Place under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely until the cheese melts, bubbles, and turns a light golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the dip cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm with your favorite crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- If lump crab meat is unavailable, fresh or canned crab meat can be substituted, but fresh lump crab provides the best texture and flavor.
- For a milder dip, reduce or omit the hot sauce.
- Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra smoky or spicy kick.
- Serve immediately after cooling for the best texture; leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated.
- Use a cast iron skillet or oven-safe dish for even baking and easy serving.
