Description
Maryland Crab Dip is a warm, creamy appetizer featuring lump crab meat blended with cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses, all seasoned with classic Old Bay and mustard for a rich and flavorful party favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning, plus more for topping
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seafood
- 1 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
Garnish and Serving
- Sliced green onions or parsley for garnish
- Crackers, baguette slices, or veggies for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dip evenly and thoroughly.
- Mix Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, minced garlic, shredded sharp cheddar, and grated Parmesan. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in Crab Meat: Gently fold the lump crab meat into the cheese mixture, being careful not to break up the lumps to maintain texture and a hearty bite.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9-inch baking dish or an oven-safe skillet, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle a bit more Old Bay seasoning on top for added flavor and color.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and has developed a lightly golden top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with sliced green onions or parsley. Serve warm with your choice of crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- Use lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor.
- This dip can be prepared ahead of time; cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Make sure to pick over the crab meat carefully to remove any shell pieces.
- Serve warm for the best creamy, melty experience.
