Best Cold Crab Dip
Packed with creamy goodness, seasonings and tons of fresh crab meat, this easy crab dip is a must-try for seafood lovers. So, let’s dive right in and learn how to create the best cold crab dip recipe that will be the star of any summer gathering!
Easy ingredients. Comes together in minutes. No oven needed and keep it chilled until ready to serve? That, my friends, is the key to the perfect summer appetizer!
This cold crab dip is so creamy, delicious, and perfect for beach trips, boat days, serving at summer parties or enjoying with a nice glass of wine on the back porch.
Tips for Making the Best Cold Crab Dip
You’ll want to make sure you start out with softened cream cheese. You can leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave it for a few seconds until it becomes soft and easily spreadable. Once the cream cheese is ready, we can dive right into creating this delectable dip.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream (or Greek yogurt if you prefer a tangier taste), lemon juice, and lemon zest. Give it a good stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated and you have a smooth and creamy base.
Old Bay seasoning adds that iconic coastal flavor to this cold crab dip, but if you don’t have Old Bay on hand, feel free to use your favorite all-around seasoning as a substitute. Psst… if you *do* have Old Bay, you must also try my Old Bay Goldfish!
Don’t skip the diced celery! It adds the perfect fresh crunchy texture to this creamy dip! Want more crunch? Sometimes I also add in a diced bell pepper too.
Gently fold in the lump crab meat. Be careful not to break up the delicate chunks too much; we want those delightful morsels of crab to shine through in every bite. The crab meat should be well distributed throughout the dip.
Keep it covered and chilled in the refrigerator until ready to serve at your party!
What to Serve with Cold Crab Dip
This creamy and refreshing crab dip pairs perfectly with an array of dippables.
- crispy tortilla chips
- crunchy pita bread
- fresh veggies like cucumber slices, celery stalks or bell pepper strips
- Buttery Crackers
- Toast Points
This recipe is the best cold crab dip you’ll ever taste! Creamy, tangy, and packed with the delicate sweetness of crab meat, this dip is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s also naturally low-carb and gluten free!
MORE Favorite
Party Dip Recipes
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, having a casual get-together, or simply treating yourself to a delicious snack, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to make a splash with this sensational cold crab dip. Happy dipping!
Cold Crab Dip
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- 1 1/2 tbsp Old Bay Seasoning
- 2 stalks celery (diced)
- 1 tbsp fresh chives or green onion (finely chopped)
- 16 ounces fresh lump crab meat (drained and picked of shells)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, stir together softened cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, Old Bay seasoning, diced celery, and chopped chives (or green onion).
- Gently fold in lump crab meat, salt and pepper. Keep chilled until ready to serve with toast points, crackers, celery sticks, bell pepper strips, etc.
I think there is too much Old Bay Seasoning. It’s very salty. I would start out with 2 tsp and go from there. Otherwise, good recipe.
Hi Janice! I apologize it tasted salty, we’ve made it a few times and haven’t thought that but I know tastes can vary. Great tip to start out and add more to taste!