Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a little heat)
- 1 lb lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained and picked over)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning (or other seafood seasoning)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
- Crackers, toasted baguette slices, or vegetable sticks for dipping
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), Old Bay seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and well-combined.
- Fold in the crab: Gently fold the lump crab meat into the mixture, being careful not to break up the crab too much. Add in 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley (reserve the rest for garnish).
- Add mozzarella: Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Bake the dip: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish (a 9-inch round or 8×8 square works well). Smooth out the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake until the top is golden and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.
- Garnish & serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with the remaining parsley and chopped green onions (if using). Serve immediately with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or vegetable sticks for dipping.
Tips for the perfect Shoreline Savory Crab Dip:
- Crab quality: If possible, use fresh crab meat for the best flavor. You can also substitute imitation crab, but fresh is always better if you can get it!
- Spice it up: Add more cayenne or even a dash of hot sauce if you like a little kick.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the dip a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating.
Enjoy this creamy, savory, and crab-tastic dip! It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next beach-themed party or any gathering. 🌊🦀
