Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip Recipe

Here's a delicious take on Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip, perfect for any gathering! This rich, creamy, and cheesy dip is packed with lump crab meat, savory seasonings, and a blend of melty cheeses that will keep everyone coming back for more.

I first tried this dip during a beachside vacation, and it instantly became a favorite. After plenty of trial and error, I finally recreated the perfect version at home. It’s a must-have for game nights, parties, or just a cozy night in with family.

Why You'll Love This Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip

Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate seafood appetizer. This crab dip is packed with flavor, easy to make, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

First, it’s incredibly simple to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of prep, you’ll have a rich and creamy dip ready to bake.

It’s also restaurant-quality but made at home! This dip has the same bold flavors as the famous Joe’s Crab Shack version, but without the hefty price tag.

Plus, it’s versatile. Serve it with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or even fresh veggies for a lighter option. No matter how you enjoy it, the creamy, cheesy goodness shines through.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this crab dip comes from the combination of fresh, flavorful ingredients. Every component plays a key role in creating a deliciously creamy and savory dish.

Lump Crab Meat is the star of this dip. For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality lump or jumbo lump crab meat. It gives the dip a rich, sweet seafood taste without being overpowering. If you’re on a budget, claw meat works too, but it has a stronger flavor.

Cream Cheese forms the smooth, creamy base. Make sure it’s softened before mixing to ensure a lump-free dip. For a slightly tangy twist, try using a mix of cream cheese and sour cream.

Cheddar and Monterey Jack Cheese bring gooey, melty goodness. Sharp cheddar adds a bold flavor, while Monterey Jack ensures a smooth melt. You can also use Pepper Jack if you want a spicy kick.

Old Bay Seasoning gives this dip its signature seafood flavor. A blend of celery salt, paprika, and spices enhances the crab without overpowering it. If you love extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Worcestershire Sauce and Lemon Juice balance the flavors. A dash of Worcestershire adds depth, while a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the richness.

A shallow baking dish works best for even cooking. If making a larger batch, a cast-iron skillet keeps the dip warm longer.

How To Make This Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip

Making this crab dip is easier than you think! Just a few simple steps, and you’ll have a creamy, cheesy appetizer ready to enjoy.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven heats up, soften your cream cheese by leaving it at room temperature for about 10 minutes. If you're short on time, microwave it for 10-15 seconds until soft but not melted.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Stir until smooth, making sure there are no lumps. This creates the creamy base that holds everything together.

Next, add the Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings. You should already smell the rich, tangy aroma coming together.

Fold in the lump crab meat, being careful not to break it up too much. You want to keep those chunks intact for the best texture. Then, stir in half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. The remaining cheese will be used for topping.

Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheese on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden brown around the edges.

Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to scoop. Serve warm with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh veggies.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them properly to keep the dip fresh.

For refrigeration, transfer the dip to an airtight container and store it for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave in short intervals.

For freezing, place the unbaked dip in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.

Avoid freezing already baked dip, as the texture can become grainy when reheated.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this crab dip is how easy it is to customize!

For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the mixture. Pepper Jack cheese also adds an extra layer of heat.

If you’re looking for a lighter version, swap out some of the cream cheese for Greek yogurt or reduced-fat sour cream. You’ll still get a creamy texture with fewer calories.

Want to make it extra cheesy? Mix in some Parmesan cheese for a nuttier, more complex flavor. You can also add a layer of cheese on top for an extra golden, bubbly crust.

For a Maryland-style twist, add a sprinkle of extra Old Bay seasoning on top before baking. A little fresh parsley or chives also makes a great finishing touch.

If you love seafood, mix in some shrimp or scallops for a seafood lover’s dream dip. Just be sure to cook them first before adding them to the mixture.

This Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip is the perfect appetizer for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a party or just treating yourself, this creamy, cheesy dip will steal the show! Enjoy experimenting with flavors and finding your favorite variation.

Print