Hot Crab Dip with Fries is a rich, creamy, and cheesy seafood appetizer featuring lump crab meat, seasoned cream cheese, and melted cheese, served with crispy fries for dipping. This warm, flavorful dip is perfect for parties, game nights, or as a delicious starter for seafood lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A creamy, cheesy, and indulgent appetizer.
- Packed with real crab meat for an authentic seafood flavor.
- Perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a game-day snack.
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
- Pairs perfectly with crispy fries, crackers, or bread.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crab Dip:
- Lump crab meat
- Cream cheese, softened
- Sour cream or mayonnaise
- Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Old Bay seasoning
- Worcestershire sauce
- Lemon juice
- Hot sauce (optional)
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
For the Fries:
- Russet potatoes (or store-bought fries)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Fries
- Cut and soak potatoes: Slice russet potatoes into fries and soak them in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
- Fry the potatoes: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C) and fry the potatoes in batches until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels and season with salt.
Step 2: Make the Hot Crab Dip
- Preheat the oven: Set to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix ingredients: In a bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, garlic, Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce.
- Fold in crab meat: Gently mix in the lump crab meat, keeping it as intact as possible.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve hot with crispy fries.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or extra hot sauce for heat.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in Gruyère or Monterey Jack for added flavor.
- Baked Fries: Instead of frying, bake fries at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the dip with celery, bell pepper slices, or pork rinds instead of fries.
- Buffalo Crab Dip: Mix in buffalo sauce for a tangy, spicy twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Fries are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for a day.
- Reheating: Reheat the dip in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Reheat fries in an air fryer or oven for crispiness.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change.
FAQs
Can I use canned crab meat?
Yes, but fresh lump crab meat provides the best texture and flavor.
What can I serve with crab dip besides fries?
It pairs well with crackers, toasted bread, tortilla chips, or vegetable sticks.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and refrigerate the dip before baking. Bake just before serving.
How do I prevent the dip from being too runny?
Use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream to maintain a thick, creamy consistency.
What’s the best way to get crispy fries?
Soak the cut potatoes in cold water before frying and fry them twice for extra crispiness.
Can I make this dip without cheese?
Yes, but it will be less creamy. Substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Can I use frozen fries?
Yes, store-bought frozen fries work great for convenience.
What type of crab meat is best?
Lump crab meat is ideal for its tender, flaky texture and sweet flavor.
Can I add breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping?
Yes, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with butter over the dip before baking.
Is this dip gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients (especially Worcestershire sauce) are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Hot Crab Dip with Fries is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, this warm, indulgent dip pairs perfectly with crispy fries for the ultimate comfort food experience. Serve it fresh and watch it disappear within minutes!
Print
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Hot Crab Dip is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavorful crab meat! Served with crispy fries, it’s the ultimate party dip or appetizer for seafood lovers
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup lump crab meat
- 2 tbsp chopped chives
- Fries for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix the dip: In a bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, mayo, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay, cheddar, Parmesan, and crab meat.
- Bake: Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes until bubbly.
- Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with chives and serve hot with crispy fries.
Notes
- Use fresh lump crab for the best flavor.
- Add hot sauce for extra heat.
- Can be served with crackers, tortilla chips, or toasted bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minute
- Cook Time: 20 minute
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking