Can I make creamy crab dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dip up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's going straight from the fridge to the oven.

What type of crab meat works best?

Lump crab meat is the best choice because it offers tender, flavorful chunks. However, if lump meat isn’t available, backfin or claw meat can also deliver a tasty result at a more affordable price.

How can I prevent the dip from becoming watery?

To avoid excess moisture, be sure to thoroughly drain the crab meat before mixing it in. Additionally, using full-fat dairy ingredients helps maintain a creamy, rich texture without separating during baking.

Can I freeze leftover crab dip?

It’s not recommended. Freezing can cause the dairy ingredients to separate, resulting in a less appealing texture. For best results, enjoy it fresh or store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Creamy Crab Dip Recipe for Cozy Gatherings: Easy & Delicious

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 cup lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained well)
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
½ tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional topping)
Chopped parsley or paprika for garnish

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Blend cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
Stir in Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Gently fold in lump crab meat.
Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese if desired.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Garnish with parsley or paprika and serve immediately.

Notes

Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Use plant-based cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative.
Pair with baguette slices, tortilla chips, or fresh veggies.
Complement the dip with other seafood dishes like Crispy Chinese Salt and Pepper Prawns or Crab Brûlée.

Author: Anna Adam
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 25 min
Category: Sides & Salads
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 210 kcal per serving

Keywords: creamy crab appetizer, crab dip recipe, warm crab dip, seafood dip, cozy seafood recipes