Hot, Cheesy Crab Dip Inspired by Joe's Crab Shack

What could be better than a creamy, dreamy dip loaded with cheesy goodness and fresh seafood flavor? If you’re a crab lover, this Hot, Cheesy Crab Dip inspired by Joe’s Crab Shack will become your new favorite appetizer. It’s rich, melty, and bursting with coastal charm — the kind of dip that steals the spotlight at every gathering.

This easy crab dip recipe combines tender crab meat, smooth cream cheese, and just the right amount of spice to create a luscious, crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you’re hosting game night, a family get-together, or simply craving something indulgent, this dip is sure to impress.

Did you know crab dip has been a seaside favorite for decades? Coastal restaurants have long served it as a warm, comforting appetizer — but now, you can make it right in your own kitchen in under 30 minutes. Pair it with crackers, baguette slices, or veggies for the ultimate seafood experience.

If you’re a fan of creamy appetizers like Buffalo Chicken Dip or Spinach Artichoke Dip, this cheesy crab dip is about to earn a top spot in your recipe collection!

What Is Hot, Cheesy Crab Dip?

Imae everything you love about a classic crab cake — the rich crab flavor, buttery texture, and savory spices — transformed into a gooey, scoopable dip. That’s Hot, Cheesy Crab Dip in a nutshell!

Why “cheesy”? Because this dip delivers pure cheesy bliss. It’s packed with cream cheese and melted cheddar, creating that irresistible stretch and richness. Add in juicy crab meat and a hit of Old Bay seasoning, and you’ve got a winning combination that captures the essence of coastal comfort food.

Whether you serve it at a party or enjoy it as a cozy snack, this dip is guaranteed to win hearts (and taste buds).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are three irresistible reasons to make this Joe’s Crab Shack-inspired crab dip:

Ultra Creamy and Flavorful: Every bite is loaded with rich, melty cheese and tender crab meat, perfectly seasoned for a bold yet balanced taste.
Budget-Friendly Gourmet: Skip the restaurant prices — you can make a big batch at home for a fraction of the cost!
Customizable: Add extra spice, garlic, or your favorite cheese blend to make it your own.

If you’re craving a different kind of creamy appetizer, check out our Spinach Artichoke Dip — but fair warning, this crab dip might just steal the show!

‍ How to Make Hot, Cheesy Crab Dip

Quick Overview

This easy crab dip recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes in the oven — perfect for when you need a quick, crowd-pleasing appetizer. It’s creamy, flavorful, and pairs beautifully with everything from crackers to toasted bread.

Key Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup lump crab meat, drained
1 cup cream cheese, softened
½ cup mayonnaise
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish.
Mix the Base:
In a large bowl, beat together cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy.
Add the Crab and Cheese:
Gently fold in the crab meat and shredded cheddar. Be careful not to break up the crab too much — those juicy lumps are the best part!
Season It Up:
Stir in garlic powder, Old Bay, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until evenly combined.
Bake:
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until hot, bubbly, and golden on top.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from oven, let cool for a few minutes, and top with green onions or parsley. Serve warm with your favorite dippers.

What to Serve Hot, Cheesy Crab Dip With

This creamy dip is incredibly versatile and pairs perfectly with both crunchy and soft sides. Try serving it with:

Buttered crackers or toasted baguette slices
Pita chips or tortilla chips
Fresh veggie sticks like celery, cucumber, or bell peppers
Garlic bread or pretzel bites for an extra indulgent option

Top Tips for Perfect Hot Crab Dip

Use Fresh Crab: Fresh lump crab meat delivers the best flavor, but high-quality canned crab works too — just drain it well.
Experiment with Cheese: Try a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and pepper jack for extra creaminess and kick.
Don’t Overmix: Fold ingredients gently to keep those beautiful crab chunks intact.
Make Ahead: Prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.