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Joes Crab Shack Crab Dip Recipe Easy Homemade Coastal Treat - Simple, Creamy, Crowd-Pleasing

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Lump crab meat (1 pound; canned or refrigerated, picked over for shells)
  • Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened)
  • Mayonnaise (1/2 cup)
  • Sour cream (1/2 cup)
  • Shredded cheese (1 cup total; a mix of Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar works well)
  • Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, finely grated)
  • Old Bay seasoning (1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons, to taste)
  • Garlic (2 cloves, minced) or garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon)
  • Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon)
  • Hot sauce (1/2 to 1 teaspoon, optional)
  • Lemon (zest of 1/2 lemon and 1 tablespoon juice)
  • Green onions (2, thinly sliced)
  • Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped)
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • Butter (1 tablespoon, optional for extra richness)
  • Bread crumbs or crushed crackers (2–3 tablespoons, optional topping)
  • Dippers: Sliced baguette, tortilla chips, pita chips, celery, carrots, bell pepper strips

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish (8x8 or similar). Soften cream cheese so it blends smoothly.
  2. Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Beat until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add flavor: Stir in Old Bay, garlic, Worcestershire, lemon zest, lemon juice, hot sauce (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  4. Fold in cheese: Add Monterey Jack, cheddar, and Parmesan. Mix to distribute evenly.
  5. Gently add crab: Fold in the lump crab meat with a spatula. Keep the pieces chunky so you get hearty bites.
  6. Finish with herbs: Stir in most of the green onions and parsley, saving a little for garnish.
  7. Optional topping: Melt the butter and toss with bread crumbs or crushed crackers. Sprinkle over the top for a light crunch.
  8. Bake: Spread the mixture in the dish and bake 18–22 minutes, until hot and lightly bubbling at the edges. If you want a deeper golden top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
  9. Garnish and serve: Top with remaining green onions and parsley. Serve warm with your favorite dippers and lemon wedges on the side.