Bookmark
This savory Maryland Crab Dip is a must for any party table in my home. Creamy and packed with sweet crab and a punch of traditional Old Bay seasoning, it is always one of the first dishes to disappear when friends or family gather. It is no-fuss to make and tastes like a little taste of the Maryland coast.
When I first moved to Maryland, my neighbor gave me this recipe and I have made it for every holiday since. There has never been a scrap left after a game day or family celebration.
Ingredients
- Whipped cream cheese: creates a super creamy base and blends easily with the other flavors
- Tartar sauce: adds tang and richness so be sure to use a brand you already know and love
- Worcestershire sauce: brings umami and depth
- Hot sauce: is optional but adds a nice little zip
- Old Bay Seasoning: is key for classic Maryland seafood flavor look for a fresh tin with a fragrant spice smell
- Lemon juice: brightens the mix and cuts through the richness use fresh lemon for best taste
- Jumbo lump or lump crab meat: is the star check for scent and keep cold until mixing avoid any that smells off
- Shredded Monterey Jack and mozzarella cheese: give melt and a mild flavor blend grate your own from a block if possible for best melting
- Fresh chopped parsley: gives color and a hit of freshness on top
- Sliced and toasted baguette: makes the perfect dipping partner thick slices hold the dip well
- Olive oil cooking spray: helps prevent sticking in your baking dish and gives good browning
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Baking Dish:
- Lightly grease a shallow baking dish with olive oil spray. A pie dish works really well for an even layer and easy scooping later.
- Mix the Base:
- In a large mixing bowl blend whipped cream cheese with tartar sauce Worcestershire sauce hot sauce Old Bay and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and fully combined so there are no streaks or lumps.
- Fold in the Crab and Cheese:
- Gently add the crab meat half of the Monterey Jack and half of the mozzarella using a rubber spatula. Fold with care to avoid breaking apart the delicate lumps of crab.
- Assemble the Dip:
- Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish using the spatula to gently smooth the top. Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack and mozzarella evenly over the surface.
- Bake Until Bubbly:
- Place the dish in a 350 degree oven and bake for fifteen to twenty minutes. The cheese should melt completely and the dip is hot in the center with golden spots on top.
- Top and Serve:
- Once out of the oven sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for color. Serve hot with slices of toasted baguette on the side for dipping.
Bookmark
My favorite ingredient is always the crab. Each time I mix it in I think of summertime on the eastern shore with my kids learning to pick crab together. The dip is now our family way to kick off the holiday season before the main meal.
Storage Tips
If you have any dip left store covered in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat place back in a small oven dish and warm at 350 until bubbling—about ten minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can separate and get watery. It also does not freeze beautifully since the creamy base can change texture but the flavor is still good.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of tartar sauce plain mayonnaise will work and keeps things creamy. If you prefer less seafood flavor try half the Old Bay to start then add more at the table. Monterey Jack and mozzarella can be swapped for pepper jack for a spicier dip or for cheddar for more sharpness. If you do not have fresh crab frozen or even quality canned can work in a pinch just be sure to drain well.
Serving Suggestions
Set your crab dip out with toasted baguette slices for the classic Maryland snack but it is also great with crunchy vegetables like celery or bell pepper slices. For parties serve the dip warm straight from the oven in a pie plate. For game day you can scoop into individual ramekins for easy grabbing.
Bookmark
About Maryland Crab Dip
This creamy seafood dip is a tradition on the banks of the Chesapeake Bay. Old Bay Seasoning is the signature taste in every Maryland kitchen and always perks up crab dishes. The combo of fresh local crab with a creamy cheese base is a favorite at big gatherings year round especially during peak crab season. Making this dip is almost a rite of passage for anyone calling Maryland home.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I substitute mayonnaise for tartar sauce?
Yes, mayonnaise works well if you prefer a milder flavor or don't have tartar sauce available.
- → What’s the best type of crab meat to use?
Lump crab meat is recommended, but jumbo lump can be used if desired. Both provide great texture, though lump is more budget-friendly.
- → Is Old Bay seasoning necessary?
Old Bay adds authentic Maryland flavor, but if you’re sensitive to it, start with less and adjust to taste.
- → How do I keep the crab meat from breaking apart?
Gently fold crab into the mixture using a spatula, avoiding over-mixing to maintain large chunks.
- → Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, prep the dip in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- → What should I serve with Maryland crab dip?
Toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetables make great dippers for this warm spread.