Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup lump crab meat, drained
Dairy & Cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings & Aromatics
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions or chives, chopped
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
- ½ tsp hot sauce (optional)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Serving
- Toasted baguette slices or crackers for serving
Instructions
- Mix Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, salt, black pepper, and optional hot sauce. Whip the mixture thoroughly until it is smooth and creamy, ensuring the spices and flavors are evenly incorporated.
- Add Seafood: Gently fold in the chopped cooked shrimp, drained lump crab meat, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and half of the chopped chives or green onions. Mix carefully to maintain the chunkiness of the seafood while distributing the ingredients evenly.
- Bake: Transfer the combined mixture into an oven-safe baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. Place the dish into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the dip is heated through, golden, and bubbly on top.
- Broil: For an extra golden and crispy crust, switch the oven to broil and broil the dip for 1 to 2 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning, then remove from the oven once the desired crust is achieved.
- Serve: Garnish the baked dip with the remaining fresh chives or green onions. Serve warm alongside toasted baguette slices or crackers, or even fresh vegetables, for dipping.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to ensure smooth mixing.
- Use fresh lump crab meat for the best taste and texture.
- If you prefer a milder dip, omit the hot sauce or reduce Old Bay seasoning.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container and gently reheated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American