Cheesy Hot Crab Dip
If you need a warm, crowd pleasing appetizer that feels a little special but comes together quickly, this cheesy hot crab dip is a strong choice. It’s creamy, rich, and packed with delicate crab flavor, balanced by a touch of Dijon and lemon for brightness. Melted mozzarella and Parmesan create that golden, bubbly top everyone loves.
Serve it straight from the oven with toasted bread, crackers, or crisp vegetables. It works just as well for holiday gatherings as it does for game night or a relaxed dinner with friends.
Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
Bake Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: About 35–40 minutes
Servings: 6–8 as an appetizer
Ingredients
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon paprika
1 cup lump crab meat, drained and picked over for shells
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish or oven safe skillet.
Soften the cream cheese fully so it blends smoothly without lumps.
In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until creamy.
Add flavorings by stirring in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Fold in the crab meat gently to keep the lumps intact.
Stir in half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan, reserving the rest for topping.
Mix in chopped green onions, saving a small amount for garnish if desired.
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan, distributing evenly across the surface.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until hot and bubbly with a lightly golden top. Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra green onions and serve warm.
Tips
Use high quality lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor.
Drain crab thoroughly to avoid watery dip.
Allow dairy ingredients to reach room temperature before mixing.
Taste mixture before baking and adjust seasoning as needed.
Avoid overmixing once crab is added to preserve texture.
For extra browning, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
Bake in a shallow dish for more surface area and better cheese crust.
If the dip thickens too much, stir in a tablespoon of milk before baking.
Serve immediately for best consistency.
Keep warm in a low oven if serving over a longer period.
Variations
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for gentle heat.
Stir in chopped cooked shrimp for a seafood blend.
Add diced red bell pepper for color and sweetness.
Mix in spinach for added texture and freshness.
Replace mozzarella with Monterey Jack for a sharper melt.
Add a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Use smoked paprika for deeper flavor.
Top with buttery breadcrumbs before baking for crunch.
Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
Serve in hollowed bread bowl for presentation.
Q&A
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the dip, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use canned crab?
Yes, but drain and check carefully for shells.
Can I freeze it?
Freezing is not recommended due to dairy separation after thawing.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.
Can I make it lighter?
Use light cream cheese and reduced fat sour cream.
What can I serve with it?
Toasted baguette slices, crackers, tortilla chips, or sliced vegetables.
How do I know it’s done?
The dip should be bubbling around the edges and lightly golden on top.
Why is my dip watery?
Crab may not have been drained well enough.
Can I cook it in a skillet?
Yes, a cast iron skillet works well and keeps it warm.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Use a larger baking dish and adjust baking time slightly.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving, based on 8 servings)
Calories: 220–260
Protein: 10–13g
Carbohydrates: 3–5g
Fat: 18–22g
Sodium: Varies based on crab and cheese
Values may vary depending on specific brands used. This dip is rich in protein and fats, making it satisfying in small portions.
Conclusion
Cheesy hot crab dip is one of those appetizers that disappears quickly. The creamy base, delicate crab, and bubbling cheese topping create a balance of richness and brightness that keeps people coming back for more. It’s easy to prepare, adaptable to your taste, and reliable for entertaining. Whether served at a holiday table or a casual gathering, it delivers comfort and flavor in every scoop.