There's nothing quite like the rich, creamy indulgence of Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip. This warm, cheesy, and flavorful seafood appetizer is a crowd favorite, loaded with tender crab meat, gooey cheese, and just the right touch of spice. Whether you’re making it for game day, a holiday gathering, or just because, this homemade version will have everyone coming back for more.

I first fell in love with this crab dip during a family beach vacation. After a long day of sun and sand, we stopped at Joe’s Crab Shack, where the first bite of this creamy, savory dip completely won me over. Now, I recreate it at home whenever I want a taste of that perfect coastal comfort food.

Why You'll Love This Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip

Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with this irresistible crab dip! Here’s why you’ll love making it at home:

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few minutes of prep, you’ll have a delicious dip ready to pop in the oven.

It’s also restaurant-quality but budget-friendly. Crab dishes at restaurants can be pricey, but making this dip at home gives you all the flavor without the hefty bill.

This dip is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just treating yourself, it’s always a hit.

Best of all, it’s loaded with flavor. The combination of lump crab meat, creamy cheeses, and a blend of seasonings creates a dip that’s rich, savory, and absolutely addictive.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this crab dip lies in its perfectly balanced ingredients. Here’s what makes it so irresistible:

Lump Crab Meat – The star of the show! For the best texture and flavor, opt for high-quality lump crab meat. If fresh isn’t available, refrigerated or canned lump crab works well, too—just be sure to drain it thoroughly.

Cream Cheese – This provides the creamy, luscious base for the dip. Allow it to soften at room temperature so it blends smoothly with the other ingredients.

Sharp Cheddar and Monterey Jack Cheese – A mix of cheeses gives this dip its gooey, melty consistency. Sharp cheddar adds a tangy bite, while Monterey Jack brings a mild, creamy balance.

Mayonnaise and Sour Cream – These ingredients work together to create a rich and smooth texture without overpowering the crab’s delicate flavor.

Old Bay Seasoning – A must-have for any seafood dish! This classic seasoning blend enhances the natural sweetness of the crab while adding a touch of warmth and spice.

Fresh Garlic and Lemon Juice – Garlic adds a hint of savory depth, while lemon juice brightens up the dip and keeps it from feeling too heavy.

How To Make This Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip

Creating this creamy, cheesy crab dip is easier than you think! Here’s how to do it:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it heats, place your softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula, beat it until smooth and creamy.

Next, add your mayonnaise, sour cream, shredded cheeses, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Stir everything together until well combined, making sure there are no lumps.

Gently fold in your lump crab meat, being careful not to break up the chunks too much. You want to keep those pieces as intact as possible for the best texture and flavor.

Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top for that irresistible golden-brown crust. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly.

Once out of the oven, let the dip sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s rare!), this crab dip stores beautifully. Simply transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place it in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to maintain a smooth consistency.

Freezing isn’t recommended for this dip, as the dairy-based ingredients can separate and affect the texture when thawed.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this crab dip is how easy it is to customize. Here are some fun variations to try:

If you like a little heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.

For a smoky twist, try smoked paprika or a touch of liquid smoke to enhance the depth of flavor.

If you’re out of lump crab, imitation crab can work in a pinch, though the texture won’t be quite the same.

Want to lighten it up? Swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to reduce the fat content while keeping the creamy consistency.

No oven? No problem! Heat the dip in a slow cooker on low for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally, for an easy, hands-off approach.

No matter how you make it, this Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip is bound to become a favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy a little taste of the coast right at home!