The Irresistible Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Creamy, indulgent joe’s crab shack crab dip has been my secret weapon at potlucks for years.

Seafood enthusiasts always ask about my magical recipe.

Coastal memories flood back with each spoonful of this rich, decadent appetizer.

Tangy cream cheese blends perfectly with succulent crab meat, creating a smooth texture that melts in your mouth.

Unexpected hints of garlic and green onions add depth to this crowd-pleasing dish.

Home cooks can easily recreate this restaurant-style favorite with simple ingredients from their local market.

Take a bite and transport yourself to a beachside restaurant with this irresistible crab dip.

Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip Ingredient Set

• Cream Cheese: Smooth and rich base for the dip.
• Sour Cream: Adds tangy creaminess and lightness.
• Mayonnaise: Provides additional creamy texture.

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp flavor and melting quality.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds deep, nutty undertone.

• Lump Crab Meat: Primary protein, delicate and sweet seafood.
• Green Onions: Fresh, mild onion flavor and color.
• Red Bell Pepper: Optional, adds sweetness and vibrant color.

• Old Bay Seasoning: Classic seafood spice blend.
• Garlic Powder: Aromatic and savory note.
• Onion Powder: Subtle background flavor.

• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds complex, umami depth.
• Lemon Juice: Bright, fresh citrus accent.

Directions for Joe’s Crab Dip

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Turn on the oven and set the temperature to 375°F for perfect baking.

Step 2: Create Creamy Base

• Cream cheese
• Sour cream
• Mayonnaise
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Old Bay seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Worcestershire sauce
• Lemon juice

Whisk everything together until the mixture becomes smooth and fully blended.

Step 3: Add Seafood Goodness

• Lump crab meat
• Green onions
• Diced red bell pepper

Use a gentle folding technique to keep the crab chunks intact and preserve their delicate texture.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the creamy mixture into an oven-safe dish, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent heating.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top turns golden and the edges start bubbling.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the dip to cool slightly, then serve with crispy crackers, toasted bread slices, or crunchy tortilla chips for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Crab Dip Tips That Rival Joe’s Famous Starter

• Handle lump crab meat gently to maintain large, delicate chunks when folding into the dip mixture.
• Use fresh garlic and onion instead of powdered versions for a more vibrant, authentic taste profile.
• Swap cheddar with monterey jack or add a sprinkle of smoked gouda for extra richness and complexity.
• Allow cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing to ensure smooth, lump-free consistency.
• Substitute low-fat cream cheese and sour cream for a lighter version, or use gluten-free crackers for serving to accommodate different dietary needs.

Keep Joe’s Crab Shack Dip Cool

• Store leftover crab dip in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly to prevent odors from spreading and maintain freshness.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. Check for any unusual smell or discoloration before consuming.
• Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally to distribute heat evenly.
• For faster reheating, use 30-second intervals on medium power, stirring between each interval until heated through. Avoid overheating to prevent separation of ingredients.

Joe’s Crab Dip Flavor Complements

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Reach for a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the rich, creamy crab dip and cut through its heaviness.
• Match with Craft Beer: Select a light wheat beer or a citrusy IPA that will enhance the seafood's delicate flavor and balance the dip's creamy texture.
• Serve with Fresh Veggie Platter: Create a colorful side of cucumber slices, celery sticks, and bell pepper strips to add crunch and provide a fresh contrast to the warm, cheesy dip.
• Elevate with Sparkling Rosé: Choose a dry sparkling rosé that brings bright acidity and subtle fruity notes to match the zesty lemon and Old Bay seasoning in the crab dip.

Crab Dip Inspired by Joe’s Crab Shack

• Gluten-Free Crab Dip: Replace regular crackers with gluten-free crackers or vegetable sticks like cucumber and carrot slices for a celiac-friendly option.
• Low-Carb Seafood Delight: Swap out crackers and chips with crisp lettuce leaves or bell pepper strips for a keto-friendly serving suggestion.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut-based sour cream, and nutritional yeast instead of traditional cheeses to accommodate lactose-intolerant guests.
• Spicy Cajun Version: Add cayenne pepper, extra Old Bay seasoning, and diced jalapeños to create a zesty, heat-packed crab dip variation that packs a flavor punch.

FAQs

• What types of crab meat work best for this recipe?

Lump crab meat is ideal as it maintains larger, more distinct pieces and provides a premium texture. Jumbo lump or backfin crab meat are also excellent choices that keep the dip’s quality high.

• Is Old Bay seasoning necessary for the recipe?

While Old Bay adds signature seafood flavor, you can substitute with similar seafood seasonings like Cajun seasoning or a mix of paprika, celery salt, and black pepper if Old Bay is unavailable.

• Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to baking time if going directly from cold to oven.

• How do I prevent the dip from becoming watery?

Use full-fat cream cheese, drain crab meat thoroughly, and avoid adding extra liquid. Pat the crab meat dry with paper towels before mixing to reduce excess moisture.

Crab Dip Just Like Joe’s Crab Shack

• Quick and Easy Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties and gatherings with minimal preparation time and maximum flavor impact.
• Versatile Appetizer Delight: Serves multiple purposes from game day snacks to elegant cocktail party offerings with simple serving options like crackers or chips.
• Foolproof Cooking Method: Requires basic mixing skills and straightforward baking technique, making it accessible for cooks of all experience levels.
• Seafood Sensation: Delivers rich, creamy texture with premium lump crab meat that elevates the entire appetizer experience without complicated cooking steps.

Joes Crab Shack Crab Dip Recipe

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4.6 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Creamy Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip delivers coastal comfort with rich, tangy flavors that transport seafood enthusiasts straight to the shore. Guests will savor each spoonful of this irresistible appetizer that blends succulent crab meat with a luxurious cream cheese base.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Seafood Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) lump crab meat (drained if canned)

Cheese Ingredients:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened

Creamy and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Garnish Ingredients:

• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper (optional)

Serving Suggestion:

• Crackers, toasted bread, or chips for serving

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to a moderate temperature of 375°F, creating the perfect environment for a warm, bubbling seafood appetizer.
2. In a spacious mixing vessel, combine the creamy components: velvety cream cheese, tangy sour cream, and rich mayonnaise, creating a luxurious base for the dip.
3. Incorporate the sharp cheddar and nutty Parmesan cheeses, whisking in the aromatic seasonings of Old Bay, garlic powder, and onion powder to build a complex flavor profile.
4. Introduce the zesty Worcestershire sauce and bright lemon juice, stirring until the mixture achieves a silky, uniform consistency.
5. Tenderly incorporate the delicate lump crab meat, ensuring each morsel remains intact, and gently fold in the vibrant green onions and crimson bell peppers for added texture and color.
6. Carefully transfer the maritime mixture to a heat-resistant dish, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform cooking and maximum flavor distribution.
7. Slide the dish into the preheated oven, allowing the dip to transform into a golden, effervescent delicacy over 20-25 minutes.
8. Remove from the oven and permit the dip to cool briefly, letting the flavors meld and intensify before serving alongside crisp crackers, toasted artisan bread, or crunchy tortilla chips.

Notes

• Ensure cream cheese is softened at room temperature for smoother blending and easier mixing.
• Use fresh lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture, avoiding imitation crab which can taste artificial.
• Adjust seasoning to personal preference, adding more Old Bay for extra kick or reducing for milder taste.
• For a lighter version, substitute low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and mayonnaise.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 270
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 500 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 10 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg