Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip

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Joe’s Crab Shack–Style Crab Dip

Description

This creamy crab dip is rich, cheesy, and packed with sweet lump crab meat—just like the popular appetizer served at Joe’s Crab Shack. It’s warm, indulgent, and perfect for parties, game nights, or as a seafood starter. Served with toasted bread, crackers, or tortilla chips, it’s always a crowd favorite.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 cup lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
  • ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Optional (but recommended for extra flavor):

  • 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp chopped green onions or parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream until smooth.
  3. Gently fold in crab meat, Monterey Jack cheese, and any optional seasonings.
  4. Transfer mixture to a lightly greased baking dish.
  5. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
  6. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm with:
    • Toasted baguette slices
    • Crackers
    • Tortilla chips
    • Celery sticks or bell pepper strips

Tips & Notes

  • ✔ Use lump crab meat for best texture and flavor.
  • ✔ Do not overmix—gentle folding keeps the crab chunky.
  • ✔ For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños.
  • ✔ Can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.

Servings

  • Serves: 6–8 people as an appetizer

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 220–250 kcal
  • Protein: 8–10 g
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3–4 g
  • Calcium: ~10% DV

(Values are estimates and vary by brand and portion size.)

Benefits

  • 🦀 High in protein from crab meat
  • 🧀 Calcium-rich from cheese and dairy
  • 🍋 Contains healthy fats that help with satiety
  • 🥳 Great for sharing and entertaining

Q & A

Q: Can I make this dip ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake before serving.

Q: Can I use canned crab meat?
A: Yes, but drain it well and check for shells.

Q: Can I make it without an oven?
A: Yes—heat gently on the stovetop or in a microwave-safe dish, stirring often.

Q: Can I freeze crab dip?
A: Not recommended; dairy-based dips can separate after freezing.

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