Cold Crab Dip is a rich, creamy appetizer that combines the delicate flavor of lump crab meat with the savory goodness of cream cheese, sour cream, and a hint of Old Bay seasoning. This dip is quick to prepare, making it the perfect dish for parties, gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. Ready in just an hour, it’s a flavorful treat that’s both luxurious and easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cold Crab Dip is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to be the star of your next event. The smooth cream cheese and sour cream base perfectly complement the sweet, tender lump crab meat, while the Old Bay seasoning adds a deliciously aromatic and slightly spicy kick. With minimal prep time and just a short chill in the fridge, this dip delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Whether served with crackers, fresh veggies, or bread, it’s a versatile and satisfying snack that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
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8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
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1/4 cup sour cream
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2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
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3/4 teaspoon Old Bay Garlic & Herb Seasoning Blend
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1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
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3 tablespoons green onion, thinly sliced (divided into 2 tablespoons for the dip and 1 tablespoon for garnish)
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12 ounces lump crab meat, drained (two 6-ounce cans)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer on medium speed for 1-2 minutes, or until fluffy and smooth.
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Add the sour cream, fresh lemon juice, Old Bay Garlic & Herb Seasoning Blend, cayenne pepper, and 2 tablespoons of sliced green onions to the cream cheese. Stir to combine evenly.
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Gently fold the drained lump crab meat into the mixture, taking care not to break up the crab lumps too much.
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Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
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Before serving, remove the plastic wrap and garnish the dip with the remaining 1 tablespoon of thinly sliced green onions.
Servings and timing
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
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Servings: 2 cups
Variations
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Spicy Crab Dip: Add more cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to increase the heat.
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Cheese Addition: Mix in some shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh dill, parsley, or chives for additional flavor.
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Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for an extra burst of citrusy freshness.
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Greek Yogurt: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangier, healthier alternative.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: This dip is best served cold and does not require reheating.
FAQs
Can I use imitation crab for this recipe?
Yes, you can use imitation crab if you prefer, but the flavor and texture won’t be quite as delicate as with lump crab meat.
How can I make this dip spicier?
To add more heat, increase the cayenne pepper, or stir in some chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, this dip is actually better when made ahead, as chilling it allows the flavors to meld. Make it 1-2 hours before serving, or even the day before.
Can I freeze Cold Crab Dip?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the dip may change when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh and stored in the fridge.
Can I serve Cold Crab Dip with something other than crackers?
Absolutely! You can serve it with fresh veggies like celery, carrots, cucumber slices, or even toasted baguette slices for a delicious and crunchy pairing.
Can I use a different seasoning instead of Old Bay?
Yes, you can use other seasoning blends like Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, or a lemon pepper blend if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Is this dip gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients in this Cold Crab Dip are naturally gluten-free, but make sure the crackers or bread you serve it with are gluten-free if needed.
Can I make this dip creamy without using sour cream?
You can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, or even additional cream cheese for a different creamy texture.
Can I add cheese to this dip?
Yes, you can mix in shredded cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella for an extra cheesy bite.
How do I prevent the dip from being too runny?
Ensure that the crab meat is well-drained before adding it to the mixture. You can also adjust the amount of sour cream to achieve your preferred consistency.
Conclusion
Cold Crab Dip is an easy-to-make, flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering or party. With its creamy texture, savory crab, and zesty seasoning, it’s guaranteed to be a hit with your guests. Whether served as a dip for crackers, bread, or veggies, this dish is sure to impress and leave everyone coming back for more. Simple, delicious, and full of flavor—what’s not to love?
Print
Cold Crab Dip
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cold Crab Dip is a creamy and flavorful appetizer made with lump crab meat, cream cheese, sour cream, and Old Bay seasoning. It’s the perfect dish for any party or gathering, and it’s ready in just an hour.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 teaspoon Old Bay Garlic & Herb Seasoning Blend
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 3 tablespoons green onion, thinly sliced (divided into 2 tablespoons for the dip and 1 tablespoon for garnish)
- 12 ounces lump crab meat, drained (two 6-ounce cans)
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer on medium speed for 1-2 minutes, or until fluffy and smooth.
- Add the sour cream, fresh lemon juice, Old Bay Garlic & Herb Seasoning Blend, cayenne pepper, and 2 tablespoons of sliced green onions to the cream cheese. Stir to combine evenly.
- Gently fold the drained lump crab meat into the mixture, taking care not to break up the crab lumps too much.
- Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, remove the plastic wrap and garnish the dip with the remaining 1 tablespoon of thinly sliced green onions.
Notes
- Serve with crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, you can increase the cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to taste.
- This dip can be made up to a day ahead and stored in the fridge for convenience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Mixing, Refrigerating
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
