Creamy Crab Dip Crackers

The first time I brought this crab dip to a friend's game night, it vanished before I even made it back from the kitchen with extra napkins. People were actually hovering around the baking dish, scooping up the last creamy bits with whatever crumb remained in reach. Now it is the one request I get before any party or gathering, the dish that somehow turns strangers into immediate friends over a bubbling pan.

I learned the hard way that doubling this recipe is nonnegotiable. My sister hosted a holiday gathering last year, and we thought one batch would suffice for twelve people. By the time the oven timer beeped, everyone had gathered in the kitchen, drawn by the smell of melting cheese and Old Bay seasoning. That pan was empty within ten minutes flat.

Ingredients

• Cream cheese: Let it sit at room temperature for at least thirty minutes so it blends seamlessly into the dip without any lumps
• Lump crab meat: Pick through it carefully for any stray shell pieces, but handle gently to keep those beautiful chunks intact
• Old Bay seasoning: This is the nonnegotiable secret that gives the dip its unmistakable coastal character
• Sour cream and mayonnaise: The combination creates the perfect tangy creaminess that cuts through the richness
• Mozzarella and Parmesan: Mozzarella delivers that gorgeous melted stretch while Parmesan adds the salty finish
• Fresh vegetables: Red bell pepper and green onions bring crunch and color that make each bite interesting
• Baguette: Slice it slightly thicker than you think you should, so the crostini can scoop without breaking

Instructions

Heat the oven:

Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and position a rack in the center so the dip bakes evenly without scorching the top

Make the creamy base:

Beat the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon, Worcestershire, and hot sauce until completely smooth and no streaks remain

Add the crab and vegetables:

Gently fold in the lump crab, mozzarella, Parmesan, green onions, bell pepper, parsley, garlic powder, Old Bay, pepper, and salt until just combined

Transfer to baking dish:

Spread the mixture into a 1-quart baking dish and smooth the top with the back of a spoon

Bake until bubbly:

Bake for 20 minutes until the dip is hot throughout, bubbling at the edges, and lightly golden on top

Prepare the crostini:

While the dip bakes, brush baguette slices with olive oil and bake on a separate sheet for 8 to 10 minutes, turning once, until crisp and golden

Serve warm:

Bring the bubbling dip straight to the table with crackers and crostini alongside

Save

This dip has become my go-to for comfort on rainy Sundays, when the house feels cozy and the oven warms the kitchen. My husband and I will stand at the counter, dipping warm crostini straight from the baking sheet, talking about nothing and everything, until the pan is scraped clean.

Make It Your Own

I have found that adding a small handful of baby spinach, finely chopped, works beautifully if you want to sneak in some greens. The slight bitterness balances the rich creaminess, and most people will not even notice it is there.

Perfect Pairings

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness perfectly, but a cold pilsner works just as well. If you want the full coastal experience, serve with lemon wedges on the side so guests can add a bright squeeze as they please.

Serving Strategy

Keep the dip warm throughout the party by setting the baking dish on a warming tray or over a low flame. Nothing beats that first bite of bubbling hot dip, and keeping it at the right temperature makes all the difference.

• Set out small serving spoons so guests can reach the bottom without making a mess
• Offer both crackers and crostini, as some people prefer one over the other
• Have an extra box of crackers nearby, because you will run out faster than expected

Save

There is something universally comforting about a warm, bubbling dip that brings people together. This recipe has been the start of countless good conversations and even better memories at our table.

Common Questions

→ What type of crab works best?

Lump crab meat is preferred for its tender texture and mild flavor, but claw meat or a blend can be substituted.

→ Can I make the dip spicier?

Yes, add extra hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the heat level.

→ How should I prepare the crostini?

Slice a baguette into pieces, brush with olive oil, and bake at 375°F until golden and crisp, about 8–10 minutes.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

The dip itself is gluten-free, but check crackers and crostini ingredients or opt for gluten-free alternatives.

→ What beverages pair well?

A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy, savory flavors beautifully.