Introduction
Joe’s Crab Shack is beloved for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious seafood dishes. One standout is their creamy crab dip, perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a comforting snack. This dip combines rich flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser.
## Ingredients
– **8 oz cream cheese**, softened
– **1/2 cup mayonnaise**
– **1/2 cup sour cream**
– **1 cup crab meat**, shredded (preferably lump crab)
– **1/2 cup shredded cheese** (like Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
– **1/4 cup green onions**, chopped
– **1 tbsp lemon juice**
– **1 tsp garlic powder**
– **1/2 tsp salt**
– **1/2 tsp black pepper**
– **Tortilla chips or bread**, for serving
## Instructions
### Method
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Mix Ingredients**: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Mix until smooth.
3. **Add Crab and Seasonings**: Gently fold in the crab meat, shredded cheese, green onions, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Ensure everything is well combined without breaking up the crab too much.
4. **Transfer to Baking Dish**: Pour the mixture into a baking dish and spread it evenly.
5. **Bake**: Place in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden on top.
6. **Serve**: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving with tortilla chips or bread.
## History
Crab dip has roots in coastal cuisine, where fresh seafood is abundant. Joe’s Crab Shack popularized this dish, making it a staple on their menu. The combination of creaminess and seafood reflects the rich culinary traditions of the American coast.
## Benefits
– **High in Protein**: Crab meat is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
– **Rich in Vitamins**: This dip includes ingredients like cream cheese and sour cream, which provide calcium and vitamin D.
– **Comfort Food**: The creamy texture and savory flavors make it a satisfying dish for gatherings.
## Nutrition (per serving, based on 8 servings)
– **Calories**: 220
– **Protein**: 10g
– **Fat**: 18g
– **Carbohydrates**: 6g
– **Fiber**: 0g
– **Sodium**: 400mg
## Conclusion
Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip is a delightful dish that brings people together. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it perfect for entertaining or enjoying a cozy night in. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a tasty appetizer, this dip is sure to impress. Enjoy it with friends and family for a memorable dining experience!
