Joe’s Crab Shack-Style Crab Dip (Rich, Cheesy, and Crowd-Pleasing!)

 


Joe’s Crab Shack-Style Crab Dip (Rich, Cheesy, and Crowd-Pleasing!)

If I could bottle the feeling of friends leaning over a bubbling dish of cheesy crab dip, laughing and reaching for “just one more” cracker… I would. This recipe is my way of recreating that moment — the warm, comforting, indulgent magic you get at Joe’s Crab Shack — right in your own kitchen.

And yes, it’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with real crab meat. We’re talking party-level deliciousness without needing a seafood restaurant bill.

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Why You’ll Love This Crab Dip

  • Restaurant flavor, homemade price — tastes just like Joe’s Crab Shack but without the cost or wait time.

  • Crowd-approved — this is the dip that disappears before the chips are gone.

  • Make-ahead friendly — prep it early, bake when you’re ready to wow.

  • Customizable — keep it classic or turn up the heat.

What Does It Taste Like?

Think creamy meets savory: the richness of cream cheese and mayo, the gentle tang of lemon, the nutty bite of Parmesan, and that unmistakable sweetness from fresh crab meat — all balanced with a hint of spice. Every bite is a perfect mix of melty, gooey comfort with a little seafood elegance.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • ½ cup mayonnaise

  • ½ cup sour cream

  • 1 cup lump crab meat (picked for shells)

  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • 1 tsp lemon juice

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Chopped green onions, for garnish

  • Toasted bread, crackers, or tortilla chips (for serving)

Tools for Success

  • Mixing bowl

  • Electric mixer (or whisk and arm power!)

  • Oven-safe baking dish (small casserole or ramekin)

  • Spatula for folding

Optional Additions & Substitutions

  • Smoky twist — swap paprika for smoked paprika or add smoked Gouda.

  • Heat lovers — toss in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.

  • Crab swap — claw meat works in a pinch if lump isn’t available.

How to Make Joe’s Crab Shack-Style Crab Dip

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