Best Ever Crab Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
Introduction
This Best Ever Crab Spinach Artichoke Dip combines creamy cheeses, tender crab meat, fresh spinach, and tangy artichokes for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Perfectly rich and flavorful, it’s great for parties or a cozy night in.

Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup half and half
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
- 1 cup mozzarella (freshly shredded)
- 10 ounces baby spinach (fresh)
- 6 ounces jar marinated artichokes (drained)
- 1 pound lump crab meat
- 1 tablespoon chives (finely chopped for topping)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a cast iron skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, reduce the heat to low and whisk in the flour. Gradually add the half and half, about ¼ cup at a time, whisking until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Step 2: Increase the heat to medium-low and add the cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and dijon mustard. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has melted completely.
- Step 3: Add the spinach in batches, stirring until each handful wilts before adding more. Continue until all the spinach is evenly coated and wilted.
- Step 4: Lower the heat to low and gently fold in the drained artichokes and lump crab meat. Stir carefully to coat without breaking up the crab or artichokes.
- Step 5: Turn off the heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses until combined.
- Step 6: Transfer the dip to a baking dish or keep it in the skillet. Place under the broiler for 5–6 minutes, or until the cheese is lightly browned on top.
- Step 7: Sprinkle the chopped chives over the top, let the dip cool slightly, then serve with crostini, crackers, or warm bread. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For extra richness, substitute half and half with heavy cream.
- Use fresh spinach for best texture, but frozen chopped spinach (thawed and drained) works in a pinch.
- Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a mild spicy kick.
- Swap lump crab meat for cooked shrimp or crab claw meat if preferred.
Storage
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. The dip can also be frozen, but the texture of the spinach may change slightly upon thawing.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip up to the point before broiling and refrigerate it for a day. When ready to serve, broil as directed for a freshly browned top.
What should I serve with crab spinach artichoke dip?
This dip pairs wonderfully with toasted crostini, pita chips, crackers, or even sliced baguette. Fresh vegetables like celery and bell pepper strips also make great dippers.
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Best Ever Crab Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
Description
A rich and creamy crab spinach artichoke dip that combines tender lump crab meat, fresh spinach, marinated artichokes, and a blend of cheesy goodness. Perfectly broiled for a golden, bubbly top, this dip is ideal for parties and gatherings served alongside crostini, crackers, or warm bread.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup half and half
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
Cheeses
- 1 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (freshly shredded)
Vegetables and Seafood
- 10 ounces baby spinach (fresh)
- 6 ounce jar marinated artichokes (drained)
- 1 pound lump crab meat
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chives (finely chopped for topping)
Instructions
- Make the roux and thicken sauce: In a cast iron skillet over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Lower heat to low and whisk in the flour. Gradually add the half and half about ¼ cup at a time, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and thickened into a creamy sauce.
- Add flavorings and cream cheese: Increase heat to medium-low, then add cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and dijon mustard to the skillet. Stir constantly until the cream cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and flavorful.
- Incorporate spinach: Add fresh baby spinach in small batches, stirring after each addition until the spinach wilts and is evenly coated in the sauce, continuing until all the spinach is incorporated.
- Add artichokes and crab: Reduce heat to low and gently stir in the drained marinated artichokes and lump crab meat, being careful to avoid breaking up the crab lumps or artichokes; ensure they are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Mix in cheeses: Remove the skillet from heat, and fold in the freshly grated parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses until fully combined.
- Broil the dip: Transfer the dip to a baking dish or leave in the cast iron skillet. Place under a preheated broiler for 5 to 6 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle finely chopped chives over the top. Let the dip cool slightly, then serve warm with crostini, crackers, or warm bread.
Notes
- Using lump crab meat ensures large, tender pieces of crab in the dip for optimal texture.
- Be careful not to overcook the spinach; it should just wilt and retain some texture.
- Broil under close supervision to prevent burning; cheese should be golden but not charred.
- This dip can be prepared ahead to the cheese folding step and broiled just before serving.
- Serve warm for best flavor and creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: crab dip, spinach artichoke dip, crab spinach artichoke dip, creamy dip, appetizer, party dip, cheesy dip