Cheesy Shrimp Crab Bake

Savoring the irresistible blend of tender shrimp, sweet crab, and two kinds of cheese makes this hot creamy dip a perfect choice for gatherings that deserve a standout appetizer. Whipped cream cheese and sour cream provide a smooth base seasoned with garlic Old Bay and a subtle hint of heat While gentle folding keeps the seafood luscious a melty finish of mozzarella and Parmesan makes every bite comforting and rich Baked until bubbly and golden then topped with fresh chives this dip pairs perfectly with toasted baguette crackers or chips and always disappears fast

I first whipped up this dip for a family beach weekend when I needed something special but fuss free Now every holiday someone claims the leftovers before the night is over

Ingredients

• Cooked shrimp: chopped juicy pieces provide a sweet seafood flavor Best if firm and pink with no gray spots
• Lump crab meat: drained offers a briny flavor and muscle texture Choose fresh or good quality refrigerated crab for tenderness
• Cream cheese: softened makes the base creamy Try full fat for richness and let it sit at room temperature for easy mixing
• Sour cream: adds a tang and lightens the mix Opt for real dairy sour cream for best flavor
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: creates the melty pull Use whole milk mozzarella for a silkier melt
• Grated Parmesan cheese: adds salty depth and a nutty finish Pick a wedge of real Parmesan and grate it at home for best taste
• Garlic: minced punches up the savor Use fresh cloves minced fine for impact
• Green onions or chives: chopped add color and a fresh bite Check for bright green crisp stalks
• Old Bay seasoning or Cajun: delivers the signature savor and a bit of spice
• Salt and black pepper: balance flavors Use freshly cracked pepper if possible
• Optional hot sauce: adds a lively kick
• Sliced toasted baguette or crackers for serving: Sturdy enough to scoop big bites

Instructions

Mix the Creamy Base:

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

Fold in Seafood and Cheese:

Gently add chopped cooked shrimp drained lump crab half the mozzarella cheese all of the Parmesan and half the green onions or chives Mix carefully with a rubber spatula so you do not break up the crab pieces The goal is a chunky textured mixture where each scoop has seafood

Prepare to Bake:

Transfer the dip mixture into a medium sized oven safe baking dish Smooth the top with a spatula and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly This ensures a luscious cheese layer that will bubble and brown beautifully

Bake Until Bubbling:

Preheat your oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit Place the dish on the center rack and bake for twenty to twenty five minutes until the cheese is hot and bubbling at the edges and the top starts to turn golden brown This is when flavors meld and the dip becomes irresistible

Optional Broil for Gold:

Switch your oven to broil for one to two minutes for an extra golden crust Watch very closely so the cheese does not burn This creates a beautiful bubbly top

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle the rest of the green onions or chives over the hot dip Bring straight to the table and serve with toasted baguette slices or sturdy crackers The contrast of crisp bread and silky seafood dip is addictive

I absolutely love the briny sweetness that lump crab brings to this dish It always reminds me of the first time I tasted a famous crab dip at my aunt’s New Year’s party She joked that nobody would leave until the pan was scraped clean and she was right I have been chasing that memory ever since

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers cover tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat in a 325 degree oven until hot and bubbly You can also freeze the unbaked dip for up to two months just thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to use imitation crab if real crab is too pricey or unavailable Just chop it to mimic texture For cheese you can substitute Monterey Jack or cheddar for mozzarella for a different flavor profile I love adding a bit of smoked cheese for a twist

Serving Suggestions

I like to set out slices of sourdough baguette crackers and even crunchy vegetables like celery or mini bell peppers for dipping This dip is also delicious spread on warm bread as a sandwich filling or spooned over baked potatoes for a luxurious snack

Serve the dip hot and enjoy immediately It pairs beautifully with toasted bread or sturdy crackers

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use canned crab instead of fresh?

Yes, canned crab works well when thoroughly drained and checked for shell fragments to maintain texture.

→ What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in an oven-safe dish at 350°F for about 10–12 minutes until warmed through and bubbly.

→ Can I substitute the shrimp with another seafood?

You can swap shrimp for cooked scallops or lobster depending on preference and availability.

→ How can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Mix the base in advance and refrigerate, then bake just before serving to maintain a melty texture.

→ What pairs best with this baked seafood blend?

Crisp toasted baguette slices, sturdy crackers, or tortilla chips complement the creamy texture beautifully.