Hot Crab Dip
Last updated on January 13th, 2026
Crab is so yummy! I had some leftover imitation crab and thought, what could I make with this? I decided on this Hot Crab Dip! This dip is delicious served with crackers, tortilla chips, pretzels, anything really! It’s sort of spicy, it’s cheesy, kind of zesty! Yum! You could even put it on a sandwich! I ended up making a grilled mac and cheese later on with this dip! I love repurposing leftovers and bringing new vibrancy to them! Sometimes as a mom I have to get crafty when my preschooler feels like being choosy. This dip did not disappoint! I can’t wait to take this to the next family event!
This post may contain affiliate links
Did you know?
Imitation crab was created in Japan in 1970, and it actually doesn’t contain any crab! It was originally created as a way to use up leftover fish trimmings and within a decade, it blew up all around the globe!
What do I need to make Hot Crab Dip?
Cream Cheese
Imitation Crab
Shredded Cheddar
Mayo
Sour Cream
Green Onion
Lemon Juice
Hot Sauce
Garlic Powder
Lemon Pepper Seasoning
Salt
Black Pepper
How do I make it?
Preheat oven to 350 F. Take cream cheese out of the fridge and allow to soften for 30 minutes on the counter, then chop into squares. Chop up the onion and crab. Juice your lemon. Then combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well to combine.
Lightly grease an oven safe baking dish then scoop dip inside. Bake, then broil on high for a few minutes.
Hot Crab Dip is done when it starts to bubble around the edges and cheese has melted throughout.
Garnish with more green onion if desired and serve with crackers, tortilla chips, or anything you like! Enjoy!
Tips:
- This dip is perfect for a party! You can make this a day ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake just before going to a party, then cover with tinfoil to keep warm. You can also bake it and add it to a small warmer and take with you that way.
- This dip is even delicious served cold! If you want, skip baking it all together!
- Use real crab or canned lump meat in this dip instead of the imitation if you want!
Looking for more crabby recipes? Check these out!
Hot Crab Dip
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese softened and cubed
- 8 oz imitation crab or real crab
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup mayo
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 1 tbsp green onion minced
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Frank’s Hot Sauce
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp lemon pepper seasoning
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Optional garnishes:
- green onion thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 ℉.
- Add all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well to combine.
- Lightly grease an oven safe baking dish, then scoop dip inside. Bake for 10 minutes, then broil on high for 2-3 minutes.
- Hot Crab Dip is done when it starts to bubble around the edges and cheese has melted throughout.
- Garnish with more green onion if desired and serve with crackers, tortilla chips, or anything you like!
Nutrition
Please be aware that nutritional values are approximate and intended as a helpful guide
Discover more from The Wholesome Spoon
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
I make one similar to this and keep it warm in a small crock pot. It’s fantastic with Triscuit Crackers!
Sooo amazing! We have one of those little dip crock pot things too, it’s awesome for stuff just like this! Love it!
I’m a big fan of crab dip, especially with tortilla chips. Love the idea of adding hot sauce to give that extra kick. Will definitely give this a try!
Yes a little spice does so much! Thank you for stopping by and if you make this, I hope you love it!❤️
This was an instant crowd favorite at our girls’ night! Creamy, rich, and just the right amount of indulgent — I was asked for the recipe more than once 🥰
I am so glad to hear that! Thank you for sharing, Jacqui!
This hot crab dip is so easy to make and really delicious. I can make this everyday!
So glad you liked it Amy!
Absolutely delicious! This hot crab dip turned out perfectly creamy, and loaded with flavor. I’ll definitely be making this again for parties and get-togethers.
I’m so glad you liked it Zani, thank you for sharing!
Such a great dip recipe! My husband was obsessed and wants me to make it again ASAP.
So happy to hear that Katie! Thank you for saying that! 🩷
This will be a great idea to make for a party. Cool idea!
Hey Seema, thanks for stopping by and saying that!