Why Make This Recipe
Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip is a delicious and creamy treat that’s perfect for gatherings, game days, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. This dip captures the rich flavors of crab combined with a blend of cheeses and seasonings, making it a favorite for seafood lovers. It’s easy to prepare and can be served warm or at room temperature, ensuring it fits perfectly into any setting.
How to Make Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip
Making Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip is a simple process that doesn’t require advanced cooking skills. With just a few steps, you can create a mouthwatering dish that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 lb lump crabmeat, drained and picked for shells
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Crackers or toasted baguette slices (for serving)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Gently fold in the lump crabmeat, being careful not to break up the chunks too much.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and lightly golden on top.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm with crackers or toasted baguette slices.
How to Serve Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip
Serve Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip warm for the best flavor. You can present it in a nice serving dish and provide a platter of crackers or slices of toasted baguette on the side. This makes it easy for guests to help themselves. It also looks colorful and appealing when garnished with fresh parsley.
How to Store Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip
If you have any leftover crab dip, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.
Tips to Make Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Don’t overmix the crabmeat; you want to keep those nice chunks intact for texture.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your taste preferences, especially if you like it spicier.
Variation
You can customize this dip by adding some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick or incorporating different cheeses like Monterey Jack for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I use imitation crab instead of lump crabmeat?
Yes, you can use imitation crab if you prefer, but the dip will have a different flavor and texture.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip, store it in the fridge, and then bake it just before serving.
Is it possible to freeze the crab dip?
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze it for up to a month. Just remember to thaw and reheat gently when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional) Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your taste preferences.
- 1 lb lump crabmeat, drained and picked for shells You can substitute with imitation crab if preferred.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Crackers or toasted baguette slices (for serving) Serve for easy access for guests.
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Gently fold in the lump crabmeat, being careful not to break up the chunks too much.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and lightly golden on top.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm with crackers or toasted baguette slices.



