Tully’s Crab Dip Recipe

If you’ve ever dined at Tully’s Good Times and found yourself scraping the bottom of their famous crab dip bowl, you’re not alone. This beloved appetizer has earned a cult following for its creamy, indulgent texture and bold Cajun-inspired flavors.

The good news? You don’t need to wait for your next restaurant visit to enjoy it. This copycat Tully’s crab dip recipe brings that same restaurant-quality experience right into your kitchen.

Packed with lump crabmeat, melted cheeses, and a kick of Louisiana hot sauce, this crowd-pleasing dip is perfect for game day gatherings, holiday parties, or whenever you’re craving something truly special.

What Does Tully’s Crab Dip Taste Like?

This Tully’s crab dip delivers an irresistible combination of rich, creamy, and slightly spicy flavors that dance across your palate. The lump crabmeat provides delicate sweetness and tender texture, while the cream cheese and sour cream create a velvety base that melts in your mouth.

Sharp cheddar adds a robust, tangy depth, complemented by the salty nuttiness of Parmesan. The Louisiana hot sauce and Cajun seasoning bring a pleasant heat that builds gradually without overwhelming the seafood’s natural flavor.

Sweet red bell peppers offer occasional bursts of crunch, and the green onions add a fresh, mild bite that balances the richness beautifully.

Ingredients and Kitchen Utensils

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of lump crabmeat (fresh or canned)
• 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup of mayonnaise (full-fat)
• 1/2 cup of sour cream
• 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup of chopped green onions (green and white parts)
• ¼ cup of diced red bell pepper
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of Louisiana hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Kitchen Utensils:

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking dish or cast-iron skillet (8×8 inch or 9-inch round)
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Hand mixer or whisk (optional)

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 people

Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully preheat. This ensures your Tully’s crab dip bakes evenly and develops that signature golden-brown top.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Using a hand mixer or sturdy whisk, blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy with no lumps remaining. The cream cheese should be at room temperature for easiest mixing.

Step 3: Add the Flavor

Stir in the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Louisiana hot sauce. This is where your copycat Tully’s crab dip recipe starts developing its distinctive Cajun character. Taste and adjust the hot sauce based on your heat preference start conservative, as you can always add more spice later.

Step 4: Fold in the Good Stuff

Gently fold in the lump crabmeat, being careful not to break up the chunks too much those tender pieces are what make this dip restaurant-quality. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and diced red bell pepper. Fold everything together until evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture.

Step 5: Season and Spice

Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning evenly over the mixture, then add salt and pepper to taste. Since Cajun seasoning typically contains salt, start with just a pinch and adjust after tasting. Mix thoroughly to ensure the spices are well incorporated.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your mixture into a greased baking dish or cast-iron skillet. Spread it evenly to the edges for uniform cooking. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the dip is bubbling around the edges and the top has turned a beautiful golden brown.

Step 7: Serve with Love

Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes this allows the dip to set slightly and prevents burnt tongues! Garnish with extra chopped green onions for color and freshness. Serve immediately with your favorite dippers.

Customization and Pairing Ideas for Serving

1. Classic Chip Pairings: Serve your Tully’s crab dip with sturdy tortilla chips, pita chips, or bagel chips. The crunchy texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy dip, and they’re strong enough to scoop generous portions without breaking.

2. Artisan Bread Spreads: Slice a crusty French baguette or sourdough loaf into rounds, brush with olive oil, and toast until golden. These make sophisticated dippers perfect for upscale entertaining or wine-pairing events.

3. Fresh Vegetable Crudités: For a lighter option, arrange colorful bell pepper strips, celery sticks, cucumber rounds, and carrot sticks around your dip. The fresh crunch adds nutritional value and helps balance the richness.

4. Seafood Lover’s Upgrade: Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped cooked shrimp or lobster along with the crabmeat for an ultra-luxurious seafood medley that takes this copycat Tully’s crab dip recipe to the next level.

5. Spicy Kick Variations: If you love heat, add diced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or swap the Louisiana hot sauce for habanero sauce. You can also top with pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for extra spice throughout.

6. Cheese Board Addition: Incorporate this warm dip into a larger seafood-themed charcuterie board with smoked salmon, shrimp cocktail, various crackers, and fresh fruit. It becomes the centerpiece that ties everything together.

7. Stuffed Presentations: Get creative by serving individual portions in hollowed-out bread bowls, phyllo cups, or endive leaves for elegant passed appetizers at cocktail parties. This transforms the dip into bite-sized hors d’oeuvres.

Essential Tips for Perfect Tully’s Crab Dip

1. Choose Quality Crabmeat: Use fresh lump crabmeat for the best sweetness and texture, or choose high-quality canned crabmeat and pick through for shells. Skip imitation crab it won’t deliver the delicate flavor this dip deserves.

2. Soften the Cream Cheese Correctly: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to avoid lumps. In a hurry? Microwave in short 10-second bursts until soft but not melted.

3. Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the dip in the final minutes. You want a golden, bubbling top never dry or browned. Overbaking can cause separation and ruin that rich, creamy finish.

4. Prep Ahead for Convenience: Assemble the entire dip a day ahead and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply add 5–10 extra minutes to account for the chilled ingredients. This trick also works great for other crowd-pleasing dips like my Parmesan Crusted Spinach Dip.

5. Adjust the Heat Thoughtfully: Cajun seasoning varies by brand, so taste as you go. Slightly under-seasoning is safer since the heat naturally intensifies during baking.

6. Get the Ideal Consistency: For dips that feel too thick, mix in 1–2 tablespoons of milk or cream. If too thin, add extra shredded cheese or a spoonful of cream cheese. Aim for a thick, cake-batter-like texture before baking.

7. Reheat Leftovers Like a Pro: Warm single portions in the microwave for 30–45 seconds, stirring halfway. For larger amounts, reheat at 300°F for 10–15 minutes and add a splash of cream if needed. Just like Burnt Ends Dip, the flavor deepens beautifully by the next day.

Storage and Reheating Guidance

Store leftover Tully’s crab dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or warm larger portions in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Common Queries and FAQs

Can I freeze Tully’s crab dip?

While technically possible, freezing isn’t recommended for this copycat Tully’s crab dip recipe. Dairy-based dips can separate upon thawing, creating a grainy texture. If you must freeze, do so before baking, and thaw completely in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

What can I substitute for crabmeat?

For budget-friendly alternatives, try using chopped cooked shrimp, flaked white fish, or even canned salmon. Vegetarian? Substitute with chopped artichoke hearts and extra cheese for a similar creamy, indulgent experience.

How do I make this dip less spicy?

Simply reduce or omit the Louisiana hot sauce and Cajun seasoning. Replace with Old Bay seasoning for classic seafood flavor without heat, or use a mild paprika for color without spice.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Combine all ingredients in your slow cooker, cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. This method keeps the dip warm throughout your party and prevents the top from browning if you prefer a lighter appearance.

What’s the best way to serve this for a crowd?

Keep your Tully’s crab dip warm in a small slow cooker set to the “warm” setting, or use a fondue pot. This prevents the dip from solidifying and ensures every guest enjoys it at the perfect creamy temperature.

Is this dip gluten-free?

The dip itself is naturally gluten-free, but always check your Cajun seasoning and Worcestershire sauce labels, as some brands contain gluten. Serve with gluten-free crackers or vegetables for a completely safe option.

This copycat Tully’s crab dip recipe proves that restaurant-quality appetizers are absolutely achievable in your home kitchen. With its luxurious combination of tender crabmeat, melted cheeses, and bold Cajun spices, this dip transforms any gathering into a special occasion.

Whether you’re hosting game day, celebrating holidays, or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary, this crowd-pleaser delivers every single time.

The best part? You can customize the heat level, make it ahead, and serve it with endless pairing options. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become your most-requested dish at every gathering!

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