Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip Recipe

There's nothing quite like the rich, creamy goodness of Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a game night, or just indulging in a seafood treat, this dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of lump crab meat, gooey melted cheese, and a hint of spice makes every bite absolutely irresistible.

this Recipe

I first tried this dip at Joe’s Crab Shack on a family beach vacation, and I was instantly hooked. The warm, cheesy texture and perfectly seasoned crab made it impossible to stop scooping it up with crackers. After several attempts at home, I finally nailed a version that tastes just like the original—maybe even better!

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

This crab dip isn’t just delicious—it’s the perfect appetizer for any occasion.

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this restaurant-quality dip in under 30 minutes.

It's also ultra-creamy and cheesy. The combination of cream cheese, cheddar, and Parmesan creates a rich and gooey texture that pairs perfectly with the delicate sweetness of crab meat.

Another reason to love this dip? It’s a seafood lover’s dream. The fresh, slightly briny flavor of lump crab meat shines through in every bite, making it the ultimate indulgence for crab enthusiasts.

Finally, it’s perfect for sharing. Whether served with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or crispy tortilla chips, this dip is meant to be enjoyed with friends and family.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this crab dip comes from a handful of well-balanced ingredients that bring out its rich, savory flavor.

Lump crab meat is the star of this recipe. For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh or refrigerated lump crab meat rather than imitation crab. It provides a tender, slightly sweet bite that blends beautifully with the creamy base.

Cream cheese creates the rich and smooth consistency of the dip. Be sure to use full-fat cream cheese for maximum creaminess. Let it soften at room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth blend.

Shredded cheddar cheese adds a sharp, tangy flavor that balances out the richness of the cream cheese. You can also experiment with Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different cheesy twist.

Old Bay seasoning brings the signature seafood spice blend to the dip. This classic seasoning enhances the crab’s natural flavors while adding a subtle kick of heat.

If you want to add a little extra zing, a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper can take the spice level up a notch.

How To Make This Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip

Creating this decadent crab dip is simpler than you might think. Let’s go through the process step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven is heating, place the cream cheese in a large mixing bowl and stir until smooth. Mixing it while softened will make it much easier to incorporate the other ingredients.

Next, add the mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan, Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and a splash of lemon juice to the bowl. Stir until everything is well combined and evenly distributed.

Gently fold in the lump crab meat, making sure not to break it up too much. You want to maintain some of those nice, juicy crab chunks throughout the dip.

Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle a little extra cheddar on top for an irresistibly golden, bubbly finish.

Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the dip is hot and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden. If you like a bit of extra browning, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes—just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Let the dip cool slightly before serving. Pair it with crispy baguette slices, buttery crackers, or even fresh veggies for dipping.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely!), you can store this dip easily.

Keep any remaining dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring in between.

Freezing isn’t recommended for this dip, as the creamy texture can become grainy once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh!

Variations and Substitutions

This crab dip is already fantastic, but there are plenty of ways to customize it to your taste.

If you prefer a bit more heat, add extra cayenne pepper, chopped jalapeños, or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

For an even creamier dip, mix in a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt alongside the mayonnaise to add tangy richness.

Want to change up the cheeses? Try swapping the cheddar for Pepper Jack, smoked Gouda, or even Fontina for a different depth of flavor.

If fresh lump crab meat is hard to find, canned crab meat can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to drain it well and pick through for any remaining shells.

Looking for a low-carb option? Skip the crackers and serve this dip with sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or celery sticks for a keto-friendly twist.

However you choose to make it, this Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip is bound to be a hit. Enjoy!

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