Name: Copycat Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 24 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ounces cream cheese (softened); 1 tablespoon mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1 tablespoon butter (softened); 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt; 1/8 teaspoon paprika; 4 teaspoons chopped yellow onion; 4 teaspoons finely diced green bell pepper; 1 tablespoon sliced green onion; 6 ounces lump crab meat; 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish); Tortilla chips (for serving)

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If you love rich, creamy, and indulgent seafood dips that instantly steal the show at any gathering, then you’re going to adore this Copycat Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip Recipe. It perfectly captures the irresistible blend of tender lump crab meat, smooth cream cheese, and just the right spices to deliver that authentic crab shack experience right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re serving it as a party appetizer or a cozy snack for two, this dip is all about big flavors and simple ingredients coming together to create pure magic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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Each ingredient in this Copycat Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip Recipe brings something special to the table, from creamy textures to vibrant flavors. The simplicity of the ingredients ensures that the crab remains the star, while supporting elements like cheese and spices add the perfect harmony.

2 ounces cream cheese (softened): Acts as the creamy, dreamy base that binds all the flavors beautifully.
1 tablespoon mayonnaise: Adds a subtle tang and extra moisture to keep the dip luscious.
1/4 cup sour cream: Gives a slight tanginess that brightens the richness without overpowering.
1 tablespoon butter (softened): Enhances the overall richness and adds a silky mouthfeel.
1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt: Elevates the taste with a well-rounded seasoning blend.
1/8 teaspoon paprika: Provides a mild smoky depth and beautiful color contrast.
4 teaspoons chopped yellow onion: Adds a gentle sharpness and slight crunch to the creamy dip.
6 ounces lump crab meat: The star ingredient, bringing sweet, tender seafood flavor in every bite.
4 teaspoons finely diced green bell pepper: Offers a fresh, crisp texture and subtle earthiness.
1 tablespoon sliced green onion: Brings a touch of sharp freshness that lifts the whole dip.
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly to create gooey, cheesy goodness.
1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a burst of color and a hint of herbaceous brightness.
Tortilla chips (for serving): Perfect for scooping and delivering that satisfying crunch alongside the creamy dip.

How to Make Copycat Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it warms up, lightly grease a small, shallow baking dish. This ensures that your crab dip doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly cooked and easy to serve.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and softened butter. Stir these together until they form a smooth, uniform mixture. This luscious base is essential for the creamy texture that makes this crab dip so addictive.

Step 3: Season and Fold in the Flavors

Add the seasoned salt and paprika to your creamy mixture, stirring well so the spices distribute evenly. Then, gently fold in the chopped yellow onion, lump crab meat, finely diced green bell pepper, sliced green onion, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Be careful to mix without breaking up the crab meat too much to keep those luscious chunks intact.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Transfer the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish and slide it into the oven. Bake for about 10 to 14 minutes or until the dip is hot and bubbling, and the cheese starts to get a delicate golden hue on top. That bubbling surface is your signal that it’s time to bring the dish out.

Step 5: Garnish and Get Ready to Serve

Once baked, sprinkle the top with a teaspoon of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of green and a fresh finish. Now, it’s ready to be paired with your favorite tortilla chips and enjoyed!

How to Serve Copycat Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic for a reason — it adds a burst of color and a hint of light, herbal brightness that balances the richness of the dip perfectly. You can also try a sprinkle of extra paprika or a few thin slices of green onion on top for some visual appeal and extra flavor layers.

Side Dishes

Tortilla chips are the ultimate companion here, offering a crunchy contrast to the creamy, flaky crab dip. If you want to mix things up, serve it alongside crispy baguette slices, water crackers, or even fresh vegetable sticks like celery or cucumber for a refreshing bite.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re aiming to impress, serve this dip in a hollowed-out mini sourdough loaf or inside a bread bowl for a rustic touch. You can also spoon it into individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation when entertaining guests. Either way, the key is to keep the dip warm and inviting!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (though it’s rare!), store the crab dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. Just make sure to cover it tightly so the dip doesn’t dry out or absorb other fridge odors.

Freezing

This dip freezes reasonably well if you want to prep in advance. Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Keep in mind that the texture might be a little different after freezing, but it’ll still taste delicious.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven feel, reheat your leftover crab dip in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until hot and bubbly again. Avoid microwaving if possible, since that can sometimes make the texture grainy. Baking lets the cheese melt beautifully and the dip regain its creamy goodness.

FAQs

Can I use canned crab meat instead of lump crab meat?

Yes, canned crab meat can be used as a substitute. While it’s not quite as luxurious as lump crab, it will still deliver great flavor. Just be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dip.

Is this crab dip spicy?

No, this Copycat Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip Recipe is mild and creamy with subtle seasoning. If you prefer a spicy kick, you can easily add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Since this recipe relies heavily on cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella, it’s tough to make it completely dairy-free without sacrificing the signature creaminess. However, you can try using dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream alternatives to experiment.

How do I keep the crab dip from becoming watery?

To avoid watery dip, make sure your crab meat is drained well, and use full-fat dairy ingredients. Overmixing can also break down the crab too much, releasing moisture, so fold ingredients gently for best results.

Can I prepare this crab dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can mix all ingredients and store the dip mixture in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This actually allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the dip even tastier when baked fresh.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about cozying up with a warm bowl of this Copycat Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip Recipe. The creamy texture combined with tender crab and just the right seasoning is a winning combination every time. I encourage you to give this recipe a try for your next get-together or quiet night in—you might just find your new favorite go-to dip!