Cheesy Shrimp Crab Bake

This cheesy shrimp and crab bake dip blends sweet seafood with rich cheeses to create a warm, comforting crowdpleaser that never lasts long at parties. The creamy base infused with garlic and Old Bay seasoning sets the stage for tender shrimp and lump crab, baked until golden and topped with fresh chives. Whether you are entertaining friends or craving a cozy snack, this dip is easy to pull together with simple ingredients that impress every time.

I first made this dip for a beach weekend when I wanted something fussfree yet special. It quickly became a holiday staple with everyone claiming the leftovers before the night ended.

Ingredients

• Cooked shrimp: chopped juicy pieces bring sweet seafood flavor choose shrimp that are firm bright pink and free from gray spots
• Lump crab meat: drained adds briny flavor and a meaty texture pick fresh or wellrefrigerated crab for tenderness
• Cream cheese: softened creates a rich creamy base full fat works best and let it warm to room temperature for smooth mixing
• Sour cream: adds a tangy brightness helps keep the dip light opt for real dairy sour cream
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: provides that perfect gooey pull whole milk mozzarella yields a silkier melt
• Grated Parmesan cheese: lends salty depth and nutty undertones grate fresh from a wedge for the best flavor
• Garlic: minced punches up the savor use fresh cloves minced finely for maximum impact
• Green onions or chives: chopped bring a fresh bite and a pop of color pick crisp vibrant greens
• Old Bay seasoning or Cajun seasoning: delivers classic savory spice and a hint of heat choose your favorite for personality
• Salt and black pepper: balance the flavors freshly cracked pepper is ideal
• Optional hot sauce: adds a lively kick if you prefer a little heat
• Sliced toasted baguette or sturdy crackers: perfect for scooping large bites and complementing the creamy dip

Instructions

Mix the Creamy Base:

Combine softened cream cheese sour cream minced garlic Old Bay seasoning salt black pepper and optional hot sauce in a large bowl. Whip with a spatula or hand mixer for about three minutes until the mixture is smooth light and airy. This step builds a flavorful cheesy foundation that will coat every bite.

Fold in Seafood and Cheese:

Gently fold in chopped cooked shrimp drained lump crab half the mozzarella cheese all the Parmesan and half the chopped green onions or chives. Use a rubber spatula and mix carefully to avoid breaking up the crab too much. Aim for a chunky texture so each scoop reveals delightful pieces of seafood.

Prepare to Bake:

Transfer the mixture into a medium sized ovensafe baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly across the surface. This layer melts into a luscious golden top that bubbles beautifully.

Bake Until Bubbling:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the dish on the center rack and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbling at the edges and the surface turns golden brown. This melds the flavors perfectly and creates that irresistible hot dip texture.

Optional Broil for Gold:

Switch your oven to broil for 1 to 2 minutes to crisp and deepen the golden crust. Watch closely to prevent burning. This finishing touch gives the dip an eye catching bubbly top that elevates presentation.

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle the remaining green onions or chives over the hot dip. Bring it straight to the table and serve with toasted baguette slices or sturdy crackers. The crispness of the bread contrasts beautifully with the silky savory seafood dip.

I absolutely adore the briny sweetness lump crab brings to this dish. It always brings back memories of my aunt's New Year’s party where the crab dip was so popular no one wanted to leave until the pan was scraped clean. That festive feeling is what I chase whenever I make this recipe.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers tightly covered in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a 325 degree oven until hot and bubbly to revive that creamy goodness. For meal prep freeze the unbaked dip in an airtight container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual for a stressfree party starter.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh crab is pricey or hard to find imitation crab works well. Chop it finely to keep the texture close to lump crab. For a twist on cheese flavors swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack or cheddar. Adding a little smoked cheese can bring a new savory dimension that surprises guests.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with slices of sourdough baguette crunchy crackers or even crisp vegetables like celery sticks or mini bell peppers. This dip also shines spread onto warm bread as an indulgent sandwich filling or spooned over baked potatoes for a cozy twist.

Serve hot straight from the oven with toasted baguette or sturdy crackers for best results. Enjoy immediately while the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can canned crab be used instead of fresh?

Yes, draining canned crab well and removing shell fragments ensures good texture and flavor.

→ What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in an oven-safe dish at 350°F until hot and bubbling, about 10–12 minutes.

→ Can shrimp be substituted with other seafood?

Cooked scallops or lobster work well as alternatives for shrimp to suit your preference.

→ How can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

The mixture can be made in advance and refrigerated; bake just before serving for best texture.

→ What pairs well for dipping?

Toasted baguette slices, sturdy crackers, or tortilla chips complement the creamy, cheesy base nicely.