Get ready to dive into a culinary delight that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of the Chesapeake Bay! Maryland Hot Crab Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining rich creaminess with the sweet, succulent flavor of lump crab meat. Perfect for parties, game days, or cozy nights in, this dip is not just a dish—it's an experience that will leave everyone asking for the recipe! With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a bake time of 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious treat in no time. So grab your ingredients and let’s make magic happen in the kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 lb lump crab meat
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your dip bakes evenly and is hot throughout when served.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the cream cheese and mayonnaise mixture. Stir until the cheese is evenly incorporated.
- Gently fold in the lump crab meat, being careful not to break up the lumps too much. You want to maintain the texture of the crab in the dip.
- In a small bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and chopped green onions. Stir this mixture into the crab dip until everything is evenly combined.
- Transfer the crab dip mixture to a baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
- Bake the dip in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.
- Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help prevent burns and make it easier to scoop.
- Serve the Maryland Hot Crab Dip warm with your choice of crackers, toasted baguette slices, or vegetable sticks for dipping.
Tips
- Use Fresh Crab Meat: For the best flavor, opt for fresh lump crab meat if possible. If using canned, make sure to drain it well and check for any shell pieces.
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. This will help create a smooth and creamy texture in your dip.
- Don’t Overmix the Crab: When folding in the crab meat, be gentle to preserve the lumps. This will give your dip a delightful texture and a beautiful presentation.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! A mix of sharp cheddar and creamy Monterey Jack can add a unique twist to the classic flavor.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the dip while it’s baking. You want it golden and bubbly, but not overcooked. If the top starts browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
- Serve with Variety: Pair your Maryland Hot Crab Dip with a variety of dippers such as crispy crackers, toasted baguette slices, or even fresh vegetable sticks for a colorful presentation.
- Make It Ahead: For added convenience, you can prepare the dip a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate it, then bake it fresh when you're ready to serve!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
