Prepare Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 ounces Cream Cheese (½ package), softened. Neufchatel light cream cheese recommended.
- ½ Cup Mayonnaise, light version preferred.
- ¼ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning, plus more for topping.
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard.
- 8 oz lump crab meat.
- 1 Tablespoon Gouda cheese, shredded.
- 1 Tablespoon cheddar cheese, shredded.
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, ¼ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning, and dry mustard. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add Crab Meat: Gently fold in the lump crab meat, being careful not to break up the lumps too much. This will ensure the dip has a nice texture.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded Gouda and cheddar cheeses.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle a little more Old Bay seasoning on top for added flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve: Garnish with additional Old Bay seasoning if desired. Serve hot with your choice of dippers.
Cook Notes
Be careful not to overmix the crab meat into the dip to maintain its chunky texture.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños for a spicy version.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese for new flavors.
Keto Version
Substitute the mayonnaise with a keto-friendly version and serve with low-carb dippers like sliced cucumbers or bell peppers.
Low-Carb Version
The main recipe is inherently low in carbs, making it suitable for low-carb diets. Ensure the mayonnaise and cheeses used are low in carbs.
Maryland Crab Dip is a testament to the simplicity and beauty of combining fresh, flavorful ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and bring a taste of Maryland’s shores to your table.
