Maryland Crab Dip Recipe
Introduction
Maryland Crab Dip is a creamy, flavorful appetizer perfect for gatherings and game days. This warm, cheesy dip highlights fresh crab meat with a touch of Old Bay seasoning for an authentic Maryland taste. Serve it with toasted baguette slices for the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients
- 8 ounces whipped cream cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 pound jumbo lump or lump crab meat
- 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh chopped parsley (to garnish)
- Sliced and toasted baguette (for dipping)
- Olive oil cooking spray
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350° F. Lightly grease a shallow baking dish, such as a pie dish, with olive oil cooking spray.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whipped cream cheese, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), Old Bay seasoning, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Step 3: Gently fold in the crab meat along with half of the Monterey Jack and half of the mozzarella cheese. Be careful not to break up the crab meat too much.
- Step 4: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and evenly top with the remaining shredded cheeses.
- Step 5: Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the dip is heated through and bubbly.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
- Step 7: Serve warm with toasted baguette slices for dipping.
Tips & Variations
- If you prefer a spicier dip, increase the hot sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Swapping the mayonnaise for sour cream adds a tangier flavor.
- Use lump crab meat for a chunkier texture or claw meat for more economical but still flavorful dip.
- Try serving with crackers or vegetable sticks as an alternative to baguette slices.
Storage
Store any leftover crab dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a microwave-safe dish until heated through or bake in a preheated 350° F oven for about 10 minutes. Stir before serving.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make Maryland Crab Dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap before baking just before serving.
What is the best type of crab meat to use?
Jumbo lump or lump crab meat are ideal for this dip because they offer large, sweet pieces that hold up well. Avoid canned crab meat for best freshness and texture.
PrintMaryland Crab Dip Recipe
This Maryland Crab Dip recipe is a creamy, cheesy appetizer featuring lump crab meat seasoned with Old Bay, Worcestershire sauce, and a hint of lemon. Baked to bubbly perfection and served hot with toasted baguette slices, it’s perfect for parties and gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Crab Dip Ingredients
- 8 ounces whipped cream cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 pound jumbo lump or lump crab meat
- 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
For Serving
- Sliced and toasted baguette
- Olive oil cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a shallow baking dish, such as a pie dish, with olive oil cooking spray.
- Combine base ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add whipped cream cheese, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), Old Bay seasoning, and lemon juice. Mix well until smooth and evenly combined.
- Fold in crab and cheeses: Gently fold the lump crab meat into the mixture along with half of the shredded Monterey Jack and mozzarella cheeses, being careful not to break up the crab meat to retain its texture.
- Transfer to baking dish: Spoon the crab mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack and mozzarella cheeses on top.
- Bake the dip: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted and the dip is heated through.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately with sliced and toasted baguette for dipping.
- Enjoy your Maryland Crab Dip: This warm, cheesy appetizer is perfect for parties, game days, or casual gatherings.
Notes
- Use lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor.
- Old Bay seasoning is essential for authentic Maryland flavor.
- For a spicier dip, increase the amount of hot sauce or add cayenne pepper.
- You can prepare the crab mixture ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.
- Ensure the baguette slices are well toasted to provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy dip.
Keywords: Maryland Crab Dip, crab appetizer, creamy crab dip, Old Bay crab dip, party dip, seafood appetizer, baked crab dip

