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Hot Crab Dip

This hot crab dip is warm, creamy, and easy for busy days. It tastes fancy but it is simple enough for weeknights. My kids call it the crabby cheese bowl and it always makes the house smell cozy. It works great for parties, game days, or nights when you just want a warm dip that feels comforting.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces crab meat lump
  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup cheese shredded
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 onions green sliced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Instructions
 

  • Mix the cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheese, lemon juice, garlic, green onions, Old Bay, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. It might look messy and that is fine.
  • Fold the crab meat in very gently. I try not to smash it because the big pieces feel kinda fancy.
  • Scoop the mix into a small baking dish. My dish never matches anything in my kitchen but it still works.
  • Bake at 350 degrees until the top turns a little golden and warm. The smell comes out fast and feels cozy.
  • Let it rest for one minute before serving. It will still bubble like it is excited.
  • Serve with crackers, bread, or veggies. My kids always take the biggest scoops and pretend it was not them.

Notes

Tips

  • Add extra shredded cheese on top before baking for a thicker layer.
  • Use lump crab for the best texture.
  • Stir the mix before baking if it looks uneven in the dish.
  • Place it under the broiler for one minute if you want a darker golden top.
  • Make two dishes if you have a hungry crowd because it goes fast.

Variations

  • Add a tiny splash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.
  • Mix in chopped jalapenos for more spice.
  • Use cheddar cheese instead of a melty blend for a stronger flavor.
  • Add a spoon of mayonnaise for extra creamy texture.
  • Swap the crab for shrimp if you want something different but still warm and cozy.