Name: Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup sour cream; ¼ cup mayonnaise; 1 Tbsp butter, softened; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for heat; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 lb lump crab meat, drained and checked for shells; ¼ cup chopped green onions; ¼ cup chopped red bell pepper (or green pepper); 1 Tbsp lemon juice; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

I’m sharing my version of the legendary Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip—a hot, cheesy, rich appetizer featuring luscious cream cheese, savory spices, and sweet crab meat, baked until it bubbles and turns golden.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dip comes together quickly, with everyday ingredients, yet delivers restaurant-style flavor. It’s creamy, cheesy, and just loaded with crab — perfect for gatherings or simply indulging on a cozy night in.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 Tbsp butter, softened
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for heat
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 lb lump crab meat, drained and checked for shells
¼ cup chopped green onions
¼ cup chopped red bell pepper (or green pepper)
1 Tbsp lemon juice
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

directions

Preheat oven to 375 °F (190 °C) and grease a baking dish.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
Add sour cream, mayonnaise, butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, Old Bay, garlic powder, and onion powder; mix until well combined.
Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
Fold in green onions, bell pepper, lemon juice, and crab meat gently to keep the crab lumps intact.
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared dish.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
Remove from oven, sprinkle with parsley, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6–8 servings. Preparation time is around 15 minutes, and baking time is 20–25 minutes, bringing the total to approximately 35–40 minutes.

Variations

Spicy kick: I like adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne for heat.
Extra melty: Mixing in mozzarella gives it more gooey texture.
Cold dip version: I sometimes chill the mixture and serve it cold instead of baking.
Healthier swap: I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and light cream cheese for a lighter dip.
Seafood twist: Swapping in cooked shrimp or crawfish changes it up deliciously.

storage/reheating

Storing: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: I reheat it in a 325 °F oven for 10 minutes or microwave in short intervals until warmed through.
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing since the texture may separate.

FAQs

What type of crab meat is best?

I like using lump crab meat for its sweet flavor and firm texture, but claw meat or canned crab also works if drained well.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, I prepare the dip a day ahead, refrigerate it, and then bake it just before serving.

Can I make it spicy?

Definitely. When I want more kick, I add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or finely diced jalapeños.

What can I serve it with?

I enjoy it with tortilla chips, toasted baguette slices, crackers, or even fresh veggies like celery and bell pepper sticks.

Is freezing possible?

I avoid freezing this dip since the dairy components can separate after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or from the fridge.

Conclusion

This crab dip is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of crabby goodness. Whether I’m hosting or just treating myself, it’s a dish I love going back to again and again.