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Creamy Maryland Crab Dip

Creamy Maryland Crab Dip
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Creamy Maryland Crab Dip is a rich and flavorful appetizer featuring fresh Maryland crab meat blended with cream cheese, mayonnaise, sharp cheddar cheese, and Old Bay seasoning. This easy-to-make dip is perfect for parties, game days, or cozy nights in, delivering a creamy, tangy, and indulgent seafood delight that will be loved by all.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz fresh Maryland crab meat (lump or backfin preferred)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: Soften the cream cheese to room temperature. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, onion powder, and Old Bay seasoning. Mix well until smooth and creamy, forming the base of the dip.
  2. Add the Cheeses: Fold the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly into the creamy base to add richness and help bind the dip.
  3. Incorporate Crab Meat: Gently fold in the fresh Maryland crab meat, being careful not to overmix to keep the crab chunks intact and maintain their delicate texture.
  4. Transfer and Heat: Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and smooth the top evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top. Serve warm with your choice of dippers such as toasted baguette slices, crackers, celery sticks, or bell pepper strips.

Notes

  • Use lump or backfin crab meat for best texture and flavor.
  • Ensure cream cheese and other dairy ingredients are softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the dip.
  • Do not overbake; remove once the dip is bubbly and lightly golden to maintain creaminess.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright flavor; avoid bottled lemon juice.
  • Adjust Old Bay seasoning according to your desired level of spiciness and savoriness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Maryland crab dip, creamy crab dip, seafood appetizer, baked crab dip, Old Bay seasoning

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/creamy-maryland-crab-dip/