Joe’s Crab Shack crab dip is creamy, cheesy, and packed with delicious crab flavor—exactly what I crave when I want a warm, seafood-forward appetizer. This copycat version brings the same restaurant-style richness right into my kitchen. It’s easy to make, perfect for parties or game day, and always the first thing to disappear off the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it combines simple ingredients into something that feels luxurious and indulgent. The mix of cheeses, crab meat, and seasonings creates a dip that’s bold, comforting, and great with everything from crackers to toasted baguette slices. Plus, it bakes up bubbly and golden in under 30 minutes—easy enough for a weeknight, but impressive enough for guests.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Garlic (minced)
- Green onions (chopped)
- Old Bay seasoning
- Lemon juice
- Hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: extra shredded cheese and green onions for topping
Directions
- I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, I beat the cream cheese until smooth, then stir in the mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, green onions, lemon juice, Old Bay, and a dash of hot sauce.
- I fold in the crab meat and shredded cheeses, mixing just until combined.
- I transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- I top with a little more cheese if I want an extra gooey finish.
- I bake for 20–25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with lightly browned edges.
- I garnish with extra green onions and serve it warm with tortilla chips, toasted bread, or veggie sticks.
Servings and Timing
This dip makes about 6–8 appetizer servings. It takes around 10 minutes to prep and 20–25 minutes to bake. I usually have it ready to serve in about 30–35 minutes total.
Variations
- I sometimes add chopped spinach or artichokes for extra texture.
- Using a mix of crab and shrimp gives it a seafood medley twist.
- Smoked paprika or cayenne can be added for a touch of heat.
- I swap in Gruyère or Parmesan for a different cheesy flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. I reheat the dip in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes or microwave individual portions until warmed through. It may thicken slightly but still tastes amazing.
FAQs
Can I use imitation crab?
Yes, I’ve used imitation crab when I’m on a budget. It’s not quite the same, but it still makes a tasty dip.
What’s the best crab meat to use?
Lump crab meat has the best texture and flavor. Backfin or claw meat works too—it’s more affordable and still delicious.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely. I prep everything and store it in the fridge, unbaked. When I’m ready to serve, I just pop it in the oven.
Can I serve this dip cold?
It’s meant to be served hot, but if I chill leftovers, they’re still good cold—especially spread on crackers or toast.
Can I freeze crab dip?
I don’t recommend freezing it, as the texture of the cream cheese and crab may change. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days from the fridge.
Conclusion
Joe’s Crab Shack-style crab dip is rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor—everything I want in a crowd-pleasing appetizer. It’s easy to throw together, perfect for any occasion, and delivers restaurant-quality results right at home. Whether I’m hosting friends or just treating myself, this dip never fails to impress.
Print
Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip (Copycat)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Joe’s Crab Shack crab dip copycat recipe is a creamy, cheesy, crowd-pleasing appetizer packed with lump crab meat and bold seasoning. Baked until hot and bubbly, it’s the ultimate party dip that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 cup lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Dash of hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: extra shredded cheese and green onions for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a small baking dish.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Stir in mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, green onions, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and hot sauce.
- Fold in crab meat, cheddar, and mozzarella until well combined.
- Spread mixture into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with extra cheese if desired.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with golden edges.
- Garnish with green onions and serve warm with chips, crackers, or bread.
Notes
- Lump crab meat gives the best texture and flavor, but claw or imitation crab can work in a pinch.
- Add spinach, artichokes, or shrimp for variation.
- Great served with tortilla chips, toasted baguette slices, or fresh veggies.
- Prep ahead and bake just before serving.
