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Best Maryland Crab Dip - Creamy, Cheesy, Old Bay Classic

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound lump crab meat (preferably Maryland or blue crab; pick through for shells)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning (plus more to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
  • 2 tablespoons chopped scallions (green parts only)
  • 1 small garlic clove, finely grated (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • For serving: toasted baguette slices, sturdy crackers, pretzels, or celery sticks

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
  2. Mix the base. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Stir in mayo, sour cream, Old Bay, Dijon, Worcestershire, lemon juice, and garlic if using.
  3. Fold in cheese and scallions. Add cheddar, half the Parmesan, and scallions. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Old Bay.
  4. Add the crab gently. Fold in the lump crab with a light hand to keep the chunks intact. Don’t overmix.
  5. Transfer and top. Spread the mixture into your baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan on top.
  6. Bake 18–22 minutes, until hot and bubbling around the edges and lightly golden on top. For extra color, broil 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely.
  7. Rest and serve. Let it sit 5 minutes. Finish with a pinch of Old Bay and a squeeze of lemon if you like. Serve warm with toasts and crackers.