Description
Maryland Crab Dip is a creamy, flavorful seafood appetizer featuring smooth cream cheese blended with sharp cheddar, tangy sour cream, and a mix of seasonings, all combined with delicate lump crab meat. Baked to bubbly perfection and lightly golden on top, this dip makes an irresistible party treat served warm with crackers or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Dip Base
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Cheese and Seafood
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 pound lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Sliced green onions or extra Old Bay seasoning (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dip evenly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, and optional cayenne pepper together until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
- Add Cheese and Crab: Gently fold in shredded sharp cheddar, grated Parmesan, and the lump crab meat carefully, so the crab pieces remain intact and the mixture is well combined.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the creamy crab mixture into a small baking dish, spreading and smoothing the top evenly for uniform baking.
- Bake the Dip: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the dip is hot, bubbly, and has a lightly golden surface.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions or extra Old Bay seasoning if desired. Serve warm alongside crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- Use high-quality lump crab meat for best flavor and texture.
- This dip can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- For a spicier version, increase cayenne pepper or add a splash of hot sauce.
