If you've ever sat by the water at Joe's Crab Shack, soaking in the sunshine and dipping into a bubbling dish of cheesy crab dip, you know just how crave-worthy it can be. This Joe's Crab Shack Crab Dip recipe brings all that beachy, coastal flavor right to your own kitchen. It's rich, creamy, and packed with savory crab and gooey cheese—perfect for game days, family gatherings, or whenever you're in the mood for a little indulgence.
I first whipped this up for a backyard seafood night, and it was an instant hit. It captures everything we love about crab dip: the creamy base, the melty cheese, the slight kick from cayenne, and that unmistakable touch of the sea. Trust me, this is the kind of dip that disappears fast.
Why You’ll Love Joe's Crab Shack Crab Dip
- Rich & Creamy: Cream cheese, sour cream, and mayo create a luscious base.
- Cheesy Perfection: Cheddar and mozzarella melt into every scoop.
- Loaded with Crab: Real lump crab meat or imitation—your choice.
- Quick & Easy: Just mix, bake, and serve.
- Great for Sharing: Ideal for parties, potlucks, or cozy nights in.
- Customizable Heat: Add as much or as little spice as you like.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dip:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – Makes the dip creamy and smooth.
- ½ cup sour cream – Adds tang and lightens the texture.
- ½ cup mayonnaise – Rich and savory, blends perfectly with the cheeses.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild) – Bold cheesy flavor.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional) – Extra gooey goodness.
- ½ lb lump crab meat (or imitation crab, finely chopped) – Star of the dish!
- ¼ cup green onions, thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish) – Fresh, mild onion flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami and depth.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Savory and aromatic.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder – Balances the garlic.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) – For a little kick.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Enhances all the flavors.
For Serving:
- Tortilla chips, crackers, or toasted baguette slices – Perfect for dipping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a small baking dish (about 8x8 inches) or use a cast iron skillet for a rustic touch.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Base
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Mix in the sour cream and mayonnaise until well combined.
Step 3: Add Flavor and Crab
- Stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella (if using), green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful not to break it up too much.
Step 4: Bake the Dip
- Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish.
- Smooth the top with a spatula and sprinkle a little extra cheddar on top if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until hot, bubbly, and golden around the edges.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle with extra green onions for color and freshness.
- Serve warm with chips, crackers, or toasted baguette slices.
Serving and Storage Tips
This crab dip is best enjoyed hot and fresh from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine or cold beer. Serve it as a centerpiece at your appetizer table or as a cozy night-in treat.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, which can make the texture uneven.
You can also prep the dip ahead of time: assemble the mixture, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
Helpful Notes
- Fresh Crab Tip: If using fresh lump crab, check for shell fragments before mixing.
- No Oven?: Heat in a slow cooker on low until hot and melted.
- Add-Ins: Try chopped spinach, diced jalapeños, or a splash of lemon juice.
- Make It a Meal: Serve over baked potatoes or stuff into a toasted sandwich.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned crab meat?
Yes! Just drain it well and pick through for any shells.
2. Is imitation crab okay?
Absolutely. It works well in this dip and is more budget-friendly.
3. Can I freeze the dip?
It's not ideal, as the cream cheese can become grainy when thawed.
4. How spicy is this?
It has a mild kick from the cayenne. Adjust to your taste or omit entirely.
5. Can I make this in advance?
Yes! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Joe's Crab Shack Crab Dip is everything a good appetizer should be: creamy, cheesy, full of flavor, and totally irresistible. It's easy enough for a weeknight and impressive enough for guests. Once you try it, it’ll be a go-to recipe in your kitchen, too.
So go ahead—dip in, share the love, and don’t forget to tag me if you post your delicious creation online. Happy dipping!
Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip
Ingredients
For the Dip:
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese sharp or mild
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese optional, for extra gooeyness
- ½ lb lump crab meat or imitation crab, finely chopped
- ¼ cup green onions thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Tortilla chips crackers, or toasted baguette slices
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a small baking dish (about 8x8 inches) or use a cast iron skillet for a rustic touch.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Base
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Mix in the sour cream and mayonnaise until well combined.
Step 3: Add Flavor and Crab
- Stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella (if using), green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful not to break it up too much.
Step 4: Bake the Dip
- Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish.
- Smooth the top with a spatula and sprinkle a little extra cheddar on top if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until hot, bubbly, and golden around the edges.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle with extra green onions for color and freshness.
- Serve warm with chips, crackers, or toasted baguette slices.
Notes
- Fresh Crab Tip: If using fresh lump crab, check for shell fragments before mixing.
- No Oven?: Heat in a slow cooker on low until hot and melted.
- Add-Ins: Try chopped spinach, diced jalapeños, or a splash of lemon juice.
- Make It a Meal: Serve over baked potatoes or stuff into a toasted sandwich.
