Description
This Copycat Joe's Crab Shack Crab Dip is a creamy, cheesy appetizer featuring lump crab meat blended with cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and a medley of flavorful seasonings and vegetables. Baked to bubbly perfection and garnished with fresh parsley, it pairs perfectly with tortilla chips for an irresistible party snack or starter.
Ingredients
Dip 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
- 6 ounces lump crab meat
- 4 teaspoons finely diced green bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon sliced green onion
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
For Serving
- Tortilla chips (unsalted or lightly salted)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a small, shallow baking dish to prevent sticking and facilitate even cooking.
- Mix Base Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and butter. Stir or beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Add Seasonings and Veggies: Incorporate the seasoned salt and paprika into the creamy base, stirring thoroughly. Gently fold in the chopped yellow onion, lump crab meat, diced green bell pepper, sliced green onion, and shredded mozzarella cheese, being careful not to break up the crab too much.
- Bake the Dip: Transfer the crab mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven until the dip is bubbly and heated through, about 10 to 14 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm alongside unsalted or lightly salted tortilla chips for dipping.
Notes
- For best results, use lump crab meat to maintain texture and flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially if using salted tortilla chips.
- You can substitute mozzarella with other melty cheeses like Monterey Jack or mild cheddar for variation.
- This dip is best served hot and fresh but can be reheated gently in the oven.
- Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container and consumed within 2 days.
