This Maryland-style Hot Crab Artichoke Dip is a rich, creamy appetizer that’s baked to perfection in under 30 minutes. Packed with tender lump crab meat, artichokes, and a cheesy blend of flavors, this dip is perfect for parties, game days, or any special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bursting with creamy, cheesy goodness and the delicate flavor of crab.
Quick and easy to make—ready in just 30 minutes.
A crowd-pleaser perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
Versatile pairing with crostini, crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables.
Packed with classic seafood seasoning for a true Maryland-style flavor.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1 1/2 teaspoons seafood seasoning (like Old Bay)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
2 (6-ounce) cans of lump crab meat, drained
1 (14-ounce) can of artichoke hearts, drained and coarsely chopped
1/4 teaspoon paprika
2–3 green onions, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F and prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish by spraying it with oil or greasing it with butter.
Mix the base: In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, seafood seasoning, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, and 1/4 cup shredded cheddar. Use an electric mixer or sturdy spoon to blend until smooth.
Add crab and artichokes: Gently fold in the lump crab meat and chopped artichokes using a spatula or spoon.
Assemble the dip: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and cheddar cheeses over the top. Dust with paprika for a pop of color.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and serve: Top with chopped green onions, if desired, and serve warm with crostini, crackers, chips, or fresh veggies.
Servings and Timing
Servings: About 6-8 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Different cheeses: Swap cheddar for gouda, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella for a unique flavor.
Fresh crab: Use fresh lump crab meat for an even more luxurious dip.
Vegetarian option: Skip the crab and add extra artichokes, spinach, or mushrooms.
Seafood medley: Mix in cooked shrimp or scallops for a seafood extravaganza.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use fresh crab instead of canned?
Yes, fresh lump crab meat works wonderfully and elevates the dish. Just ensure it’s cooked and free of shells.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.
What’s the best way to serve this dip?
Serve it warm with crostini, crackers, tortilla chips, or fresh veggies like celery and bell pepper slices.
Can I freeze this dip?
Freezing is not recommended as the creamy texture may change when thawed.
What’s a good substitute for seafood seasoning?
If you don’t have Old Bay, use a mix of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and cayenne.
Can I use light cream cheese or sour cream?
Yes, light versions of cream cheese and sour cream work, though the dip may be slightly less rich.
How do I prevent the dip from being too watery?
Drain the artichokes and crab meat thoroughly before mixing.
Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?
Yes, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and heat on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
What other garnishes work well?
Try fresh parsley, dill, or a sprinkle of extra seafood seasoning.
How do I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish, adjusting the cooking time by 5-10 minutes if needed.
Conclusion
Hot Crab Artichoke Dip is a rich, indulgent appetizer that’s guaranteed to impress. Perfectly creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, this dip is easy to prepare and sure to become a favorite at your next gathering. Serve it warm, and watch it disappear!
Hot Crab Artichoke Dip
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Hot Crab Artichoke Dip is a Maryland-style classic, perfect for any occasion! Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavorful crab meat and tender artichokes, it’s an irresistible appetizer ready in under 30 minutes. Serve it warm with your favorite dippers for a crowd-pleasing treat!
Ingredients
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
1 1/2 tsp seafood seasoning (e.g., Old Bay)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
2 (6-ounce) cans lump crab meat, drained
1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and coarsely chopped
1/4 tsp paprika
2–3 green onions, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly with oil or butter.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, seafood seasoning, 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, and 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Use an electric mixer or stir manually until smooth.
Add Crab and Artichokes: Gently fold in the drained crab meat and chopped artichokes until evenly distributed.
Assemble the Dish: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining Parmesan and cheddar cheeses. Sprinkle with paprika for color.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden, and the dip is bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired. Serve warm with crostini, crackers, tortilla chips, or raw vegetables.
Notes
Make Ahead: Prepare the dip up to the baking step and refrigerate for up to a day. Bake when ready to serve.
Substitutions: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *