Enjoy the Best Crab Dip at Joe’s Crab Shack

A Taste of Coastal Heaven

Imagine sitting at Joe’s Crab Shack, the ocean breeze in your hair, and a steaming bowl of their legendary crab dip arrives at your table. This creamy, cheesy masterpiece, bursting with tender lump crab meat, is the ultimate appetizer for any occasion—game days, holiday parties, or cozy nights in. With this easy recipe, you can bring that coastal vibe to your kitchen in under 30 minutes!

Why you’ll love this recipe: It’s quick, uses simple ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality flavor. Serve it with crackers, veggies, or warm baguette slices for a crowd-pleasing dish that disappears fast.

Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip Recipe

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese or Neufchatel light cream cheese, softened
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream (light or regular)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tbsp grated white onion
12 oz lump crab meat (about two 6-oz cans, drained)
1 tsp all-purpose seasoning salt (like Lawry’s)
½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
Optional: ¼ tsp garlic powder for extra depth
Optional: Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend until smooth and creamy.
Add the flavor: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated white onion, all-purpose seasoning salt, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder (if using). Mix well.
Incorporate the crab: Gently fold in the lump crab meat, being careful not to break up the chunks too much for those luxurious bites.
Bake the dip: Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish (8×8 inches works well). Spread evenly and bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh touch. Serve warm with crackers, celery sticks, or toasted baguette slices.

Recipe Notes

Make it ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Substitutions: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter dip, or use imitation crab for a budget-friendly option.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Crab Dip

Quality crab: Use lump crab meat for the best texture. If using canned, drain thoroughly to avoid a watery dip.
Cheesy crust: Sprinkle an extra ½ cup of cheddar on top before baking for a golden, bubbly finish.
Add some heat: Mix in ¼ tsp cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

Make your crab dip the star of the show with these pairings:

Crackers and breads: Butter crackers, pita chips, or toasted baguette slices.
Veggies: Celery sticks, carrot sticks, or bell pepper strips for a fresh crunch.
Drinks: Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer for that coastal vibe.

Craving more appetizers? Try our Buffalo Chicken Dip or Shrimp Cocktail Recipe!