If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s creamy, decadent, and perfect for seafood lovers, crab dip with cream cheese is a must-try. This crowd-pleasing dip combines the sweetness of crab meat with the richness of cream cheese and bold seasonings to create an irresistible dish you can serve warm or cold.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, game night, or simply craving something indulgent and flavorful, this crab dip is quick to make, easy to customize, and impossible to forget. In this complete guide, you’ll learn how to make the ultimate crab dip with cream cheese, from ingredients and variations to serving and storage.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
-
Luxurious Flavor – Cream cheese and crab come together in a rich, savory blend that feels indulgent with every bite.
-
Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples and can be made with fresh, canned, or imitation crab.
-
Versatile Serving – Serve warm, cold, or baked in a dish—perfect for all kinds of gatherings.
-
Crowd-Pleasing – Always a hit at parties, potlucks, and holiday spreads.
-
Easy to Make Ahead – Prepare it in advance and bake or serve when ready.
What Is Crab Dip with Cream Cheese?
Crab dip with cream cheese is a creamy seafood appetizer typically made by combining cream cheese, crab meat, mayonnaise or sour cream, and flavorful additions like garlic, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and shredded cheese. It’s then served either cold, warm, or baked until bubbly.
This dip is best enjoyed with crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetables and can easily be dressed up with toppings like chives, hot sauce, or breadcrumbs.
Ingredients List
Here’s a solid base recipe, followed by options for enhancements.
Base Ingredients:
-
8 oz cream cheese, softened
-
1/2 cup mayonnaise or sour cream
-
1 cup crab meat (fresh, canned, or imitation)
-
1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella
-
1 teaspoon lemon juice
-
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
-
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
-
Salt and black pepper to taste
-
2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
Optional Add-Ins:
-
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
-
1–2 teaspoons hot sauce or cayenne pepper
-
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
-
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped
-
1/4 cup diced red bell pepper for texture and color
Timing & Servings
-
Prep Time: 10 minutes
-
Cook Time (if baking): 15–20 minutes
-
Total Time: 25–30 minutes
-
Servings: Serves 6–8 as an appetizer
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crab Dip with Cream Cheese
Step 1: Prep the Crab
If using fresh crab, make sure it’s fully cooked, shells removed, and shredded or flaked. Canned or imitation crab should be drained and patted dry.
Step 2: Soften and Mix the Base
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Cheese
Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice, Old Bay, salt, pepper, and half of the shredded cheese.
Step 4: Fold in the Crab
Gently fold the crab into the creamy mixture. Avoid over-mixing to keep the texture of the crab intact.
Step 5: Choose Your Serving Style
-
Cold Crab Dip: Chill for at least 1 hour and serve with crackers or veggies.
-
Hot Crab Dip: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer dip to a baking dish, top with the remaining cheese, and bake for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serving Suggestions
Dippers to Try:
-
Crackers (Ritz, Triscuits, water crackers)
-
Sliced baguette or crostini
-
Toasted pita chips
-
Celery and carrot sticks
-
Bell pepper strips
-
Tortilla chips (for a modern twist)
Presentation Ideas:
-
Serve in a small cast-iron skillet for rustic appeal
-
Garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or paprika
-
Add a lemon wedge for extra zing on the side
-
Surround the dip with colorful crudité on a platter
Cold vs. Hot Crab Dip
Cold Crab Dip:
-
No baking required
-
Served straight from the fridge
-
Great for make-ahead events
-
Slightly firmer texture
Hot Crab Dip:
-
Creamy and melty
-
Served warm and comforting
-
Topped with cheese or breadcrumbs
-
Ideal for parties and holiday spreads
Crab Dip Variations
Spicy Crab Dip
Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce for extra heat.
Cheesy Crab Dip
Increase the cheese amount and use a combination like cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan for a richer taste.
Crab-Artichoke Dip
Add 1/2 cup chopped artichoke hearts for a briny, creamy addition.
Cajun Crab Dip
Swap Old Bay for Cajun seasoning and add a touch of smoked paprika.
Low-Carb/Keto Version
Skip the breadcrumbs and use full-fat cream cheese, mayo, and crab for a keto-friendly dip.
Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Crab Dip
-
Use quality crab: Fresh lump crab meat gives the best flavor, but canned or imitation also work well.
-
Soften cream cheese: Ensure it’s fully softened to avoid lumps.
-
Don’t overbake: If baking, remove from oven once the cheese is bubbly to avoid drying out.
-
Add lemon: A little acidity brightens the dip and enhances the seafood flavor.
-
Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect smoothness.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Make-Ahead:
-
Mix and assemble the dip (unbaked) up to 24 hours in advance.
-
Cover and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Storing Leftovers:
-
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating:
-
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.
Freezing:
-
Freezing is not recommended. Cream cheese and crab can both separate or become watery after thawing.
Nutritional Overview (Per 1/4 cup serving, approx.)
-
Calories: 180–220
-
Protein: 8–10g
-
Fat: 15–18g
-
Carbohydrates: 2–4g
-
Fiber: 0g
-
Sodium: 400–600mg
Nutritional values will vary based on the type of crab and cheese used.
FAQs
Can I use imitation crab?
Yes, imitation crab (surimi) works well and is more affordable. However, fresh or canned lump crab gives superior flavor.
Is this dip gluten-free?
Yes, the dip itself is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to serve it with gluten-free dippers.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayo?
Yes! Greek yogurt can be used for a tangy, protein-rich substitute, though it may change the flavor slightly.
Can I microwave the dip instead of baking it?
Yes, you can microwave the dip in a microwave-safe dish for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
How do I thicken the dip?
If your dip is too thin, add more cream cheese or shredded cheese. For baked versions, let it cool slightly—it thickens as it rests.
Conclusion
Crab dip with cream cheese is a versatile, indulgent, and easy-to-make appetizer that combines creamy richness with the delicate sweetness of crab. Whether served cold for a light summer snack or hot and bubbly for winter gatherings, it’s always a crowd favorite.
With plenty of ways to customize it—spicy, cheesy, Cajun-style, or keto—this recipe can easily fit your taste and occasion. Serve it with fresh vegetables, buttery crackers, or crisp crostini, and you have a guaranteed hit on your hands.