Maryland Crab Dip (Creamy, Cheesy & Irresistible)

Introduction

Rich, creamy, and packed with tender crab meat, Maryland Crab Dip is the ultimate appetizer for seafood lovers. This warm, cheesy dip is bursting with flavor from lump crab, Old Bay seasoning, garlic, and a hint of lemon. Perfect for entertaining, game nights, or cozy dinners, it pairs beautifully with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh veggies.🦀

The best part? It’s quick to prepare, yet feels indulgent and restaurant-quality. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night at home, this crab dip is guaranteed to impress.

Maryland Crab Dip

Creamy, cheesy Maryland crab dip 🦀🧀 — warm, rich, and perfect for parties or cozy nights with toasted baguette slices.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine: American, Seafood

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Dish

• 8 oz cream cheese softened
• 0.5 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 8 oz lump crab meat picked over for shells
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Small baking dish or ramekin
• Spatula or spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a small baking dish or ramekin.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, cheddar, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay, garlic, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Gently fold in lump crab meat and parsley.
4. Transfer mixture to prepared dish. Bake 20–25 minutes until top is golden and bubbly.
5. Serve warm with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or veggies. Garnish with extra parsley.

Notes

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Rich and creamy — perfectly balanced cheese and crab flavors
✅ Quick to prepare — ready in under 30 minutes
✅ Party-friendly — ideal for gatherings or game nights
✅ Customizable — adjust cheese or spice levels
✅ Classic Maryland flavor — Old Bay seasoning brings authentic taste

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 8 oz lump crab meat, picked over for shells
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)

Optional for serving: toasted baguette slices, crackers, or veggie sticks

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven
Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a small baking dish or ramekin.

2. Make the Dip
In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, cheddar, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay, garlic, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.

3. Fold in Crab
Gently fold in lump crab meat and 2 tbsp chopped parsley, being careful not to break up the lumps.

4. Bake
Transfer mixture to prepared dish. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

5. Serve
Serve warm with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh veggies. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Cheese swap: Try pepper jack for a mild kick, or Gruyère for a nutty flavor.
• Spicy option: Add ¼ tsp cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
• Make ahead: Assemble dip and refrigerate, then bake right before serving.
• Seafood mix: Add a little cooked shrimp or crab claw meat for extra seafood flavor.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition (per ¼ cup serving, approx.)

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 10 g
• Carbs: 3 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 430 mg