Real Maryland Crab Soup

Authentic Maryland Crab Soup is a hearty, tomato-based soup packed with sweet crab meat, vibrant vegetables, and signature Chesapeake Bay seasoning. It’s a comforting one-pot meal that’s flavorful, simple, and full of tradition—straight from a native Marylander’s kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• True Maryland flavor with Old Bay seasoning

• Showcases the sweet, succulent taste of blue crab

• Loaded with fresh and frozen vegetables

• One-pot recipe—easy cleanup and minimal fuss

• Freezer-friendly for make-ahead meals

• Naturally gluten-free and low in fat

• Tastes even better the next day

• Versatile—perfect for lunch, dinner, or special gatherings

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 medium yellow onion, diced

• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced into coins

• 1 celery stalk, chopped

• 28 oz canned whole peeled tomatoes

• 2½ tablespoons Old Bay seasoning

• 1 tablespoon dry mustard

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

• 1½ cups peeled and diced gold potatoes (½-inch cubes)

• 1½ cups fresh or frozen sweet corn

• ½ cup fresh or frozen lima beans

• ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce

• 4 cups beef broth

• 2 cups water

• 1 lb lump or jumbo lump blue crab meat

Directions

1. In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened.

2. Stir in the tomatoes, Old Bay, and dry mustard. Crush the tomatoes with a spatula and stir for at least 1 minute to build flavor.

3. Add the green beans, potatoes, corn, lima beans, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and water. Stir well and bring to a boil.

4. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Gently stir in the crab meat and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes.

6. Serve warm, optionally with crackers on the side.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 8 servings (about 2 cups each)

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 1 hour 15 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Crab options: Use a mix of lump and backfin meat if jumbo lump is unavailable

• Vegetable swaps: Add peas, bell peppers, or diced tomatoes

• Spice level: Reduce Old Bay to 1 tablespoon for a milder flavor

• Broth base: Substitute seafood or vegetable broth for beef broth if preferred

• Surf-and-cream: Mix half with cream of crab soup for a decadent 50/50 blend

Storage / Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days

• Freezing: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool fully before freezing

• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Stir occasionally to redistribute the crab meat

FAQs

Can I use imitation crab meat?

No. For authentic flavor and texture, always use real lump or jumbo lump blue crab meat.

What kind of broth is best for this soup?

Traditional Maryland crab soup uses beef broth, but you can substitute seafood or vegetable broth if preferred.

Is this soup spicy?

It has a mild kick from the Old Bay. Reduce the amount if you prefer it less spicy.

Can I use canned crab meat?

Yes, as long as it’s real crab meat (not imitation) and ideally refrigerated for freshness.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, the flavors develop even more with time. It’s excellent when made a day in advance.

What goes well with Maryland crab soup?

Serve it with saltines, oyster crackers, or crusty bread. A side salad also pairs nicely.

How do I freeze this soup?

Cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check the Worcestershire sauce label.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, sauté the vegetables first, then add all ingredients (except crab) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours, stir in crab for the final 30 minutes.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just be sure to use a large enough pot to accommodate the volume.

Conclusion

Maryland crab soup is a celebration of coastal flavors—rich with blue crab, veggies, and seasoned with iconic Old Bay. Whether you’re a lifelong Marylander or just love seafood, this comforting soup delivers a delicious and authentic experience every time. It’s easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and full of Chesapeake charm.