This melty, crowd-pleasing Cheesy Shrimp & Crab Bake Dip combines rich cream cheese, savory
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup lump crab meat, drained
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions or chives, chopped
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Optional: ½ tsp hot sauce for a kick
- Sliced toasted baguette or crackers, for serving
Instructions
- Mix the Creamy Base: In a bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, garlic, Old Bay, salt, pepper, and hot sauce if using. Whip until smooth to form a flavor-packed cheesy foundation.
- Fold in Seafood & Cheese: Gently fold in chopped shrimp, lump crab meat, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, and half of the chopped chives. Be careful to keep the crab chunky for texture.
- Bake It Melty: Spread the mixture evenly into an oven-safe baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and chives. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the dip rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with sliced toasted baguette, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Troubleshooting & Tips
- Don’t overbake: The dip should be hot and melty but not dry.
- Keep crab chunky: Gently fold to maintain texture.
- Customize spice level: Adjust Old Bay and hot sauce to your preference.
- Prep ahead: Mix the dip the night before and bake just before serving.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and bubbly. For a party-ready prep, assemble the dip ahead but bake just before serving for optimal texture.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of creamy cheese, savory seafood, and aromatic spices creates a dip that’s indulgent yet balanced. Melting the top layer of mozzarella adds a golden, gooey finish, while the chopped chives add fresh flavor and color.
Expert Tips
- Use fresh or high-quality seafood for the best flavor.
- Serve with a mix of crackers and toasted bread for variety.
- Garnish with extra chives or a sprinkle of paprika for visual appeal.
- For a lighter version, substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt.

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