This Crab Spinach and Artichoke Dip is an amazing copycat of Red Lobster’s famous dip that is easy to make at home in your slow cooker.  Perfect for parties or a date night at home.

Why Make Crab Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Crab spinach and artichoke dip is a delicious appetizer that is perfect for sharing with friends and family. It is a creamy, cheesy dip with a rich flavor that comes from the combination of crab meat, spinach, and artichokes. Here are a few reasons why you might enjoy eating crab spinach and artichoke dip:

1. Flavor: The combination of crab meat, spinach, and artichokes in this dip creates a unique and delicious flavor that is hard to resist. The creamy, cheesy texture and the rich seafood flavor of the crab make it a perfect appetizer for any occasion.
2. Nutritious: Crab meat is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. Spinach and artichokes are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making this dip a healthier option than many other appetizers.
3. Versatile: Crab spinach and artichoke dip can be served with a variety of dippers, including bread, crackers, and vegetables, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different settings.
4. Easy to make: While it may seem like a fancy appetizer, crab spinach and artichoke dip is actually very easy to make. Most recipes involve simply mixing the ingredients together and baking it in the oven, making it a great choice for anyone who wants to create an impressive dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
5. Save Money:  We all know the cost of dining out continues to rise.  Being able to make this Red Lobster Crab Dip at home will help your budget while also allowing for an easy and tasty dish you are bound to love.

Ingredients

Frozen Spinach

Artichokes: You will want to look for water packed artichokes, not the marinated variety

Lump Crab Meat: You can use canned or fresh

Sour Cream:  Light or regular sour cream will both work fine.

Mayonnaise

Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese:  I used white cheddar to make this dip, Red Lobster usually prepares their version of the dip using orange cheddar cheese.

Scallions

Garlic 

Salt and Pepper

Cream cheese: you can use a block of regular cream cheese or substitute neufchatel is you preference

Lemon: you will utilize both the juice and the zest in this recipe

Hot sauce

How to Make Crab Spinach and Artichoke Dip in the Slow Cooker

Begin by lining your slow cooker with a slow cooker liner, if using.  Spray generously with cooking spray.

Add all the ingredients except for the lemon zest and hot sauce to the slow cooker.  Stir gently to combine.  Close the slow cooker and cook on high heat for 2 hours.

Remove the lid and stir through the zest, hot sauce and additional salt and pepper to taste.

Keep warm for up to two additional hours.

Can I make Crab Spinach and Artichoke Dip in an Instant Pot

Yes, can do so using the slow cook function on the Instant Pot.

Can I use a slow cooker liner in an Instant Pot

Yes, you can use a slow cooker liner in an Instant Pot so long as it is not set to pressurize.  When you are using the slow cook function, like in this recipe, it will work just fine.  You will just need to make sure to fit the bag in well so that it does not prevent the lid from properly loading or use a slow cooker lid that has been designed for the Instant Pot.

Best way to thaw frozen spinach

Overnight in the Refrigerator:

1. If you have time, the best way to thaw frozen spinach is to place it in the refrigerator overnight. Transfer the frozen spinach to a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator to thaw. This method takes the longest, but it allows the spinach to thaw gradually and retain its texture and nutrients.

In a Microwave:

2. If you need to thaw the spinach quickly, you can use a microwave. Place the frozen spinach in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This method can cause the spinach to lose some of its moisture and become slightly mushy, but it’s still good for recipes that require cooked spinach.

In a Colander:

3. If you plan to use the spinach in a recipe that requires it to be drained, you can thaw the spinach in a colander. Place the frozen spinach in a colander and run warm water over it until it’s thawed. Then, squeeze out the excess water with your hands or a clean kitchen towel. This method is quick and easy, but it can also make the spinach slightly mushy.

No matter which method you choose, it’s important to squeeze out as much excess water as possible before using the spinach in a recipe to prevent the dish from becoming watery.

How to store leftover Crab Dip

Leftover crab dip can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, as long as it has been stored properly. To store the crab dip, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator.

When reheating leftover crab dip, it’s best to do it slowly over low heat to prevent the cheese from separating or the dip from becoming too watery. You can reheat the crab dip in the microwave, but be sure to stir it frequently and check it often to avoid overcooking.

If you don’t plan on eating the leftover crab dip within 3-4 days, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. To freeze the crab dip, transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and place it in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Uses for Leftover Crab Spinach Artichoke Dip

Stuffed Chicken Breast:

1. Cut a pocket in the thickest part of a chicken breast and stuff it with leftover crab spinach and artichoke dip. Secure with toothpicks, season with salt and pepper, and bake in the oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Pasta Sauce:

2. Add leftover crab spinach and artichoke dip to cooked pasta and toss to coat. Add a splash of cream or milk to make the sauce smoother, if desired. This creates a quick and easy pasta dish with a creamy seafood sauce.

Stuffed Mushrooms:

3. Remove the stems from button mushrooms and stuff them with leftover crab spinach and artichoke dip. Bake in the oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the dip is hot and bubbly.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich:

4. Spread leftover crab spinach and artichoke dip on a slice of bread and top with grated cheese. Top with another slice of bread and grill in a pan with butter until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.

Quesadilla:

5. Spread leftover crab spinach and artichoke dip on a tortilla and top with shredded cheese and another tortilla. Cook in a pan over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa and sour cream.

What to serve with Crab Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Toasted Bread:

1. Sliced baguette or crostini are perfect for dipping into crab spinach and artichoke dip. Simply toast the bread in the oven or on a griddle until crispy and serve alongside the dip.

Crackers:

2. Assorted crackers, such as wheat crackers or pita chips, are another great option for serving with crab spinach and artichoke dip. The crackers provide a nice crunch and a sturdy base for dipping.

Vegetable Crudité:

3. For a healthier option, serve the dip with vegetable crudité such as sliced carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes. Not only does this provide a nice balance to the rich dip, but it adds some color and nutrition to the plate.

Tortilla Chips:

4. Tortilla chips, especially those with a hint of lime, are a great pairing with crab spinach and artichoke dip. The saltiness of the chips complements the flavors in the dip.

Pretzels:

5. Soft or hard pretzels are another option for serving with crab spinach and artichoke dip. The saltiness of the pretzels pairs well with the creamy dip.

Enjoy this Red Lobster Copycat Spinach Dip recipe?  Try some of our other restaurant Copycats!

• Red Robin Burnin Love Burger: This burger is topped with jalapeno coins, tangy salsa, pepper jack cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and chipotle aioli, and served on a sesame seed bun.
• Little Caesars Cheesy Bread: This warm, savory bread made with freshly baked dough, topped with melted cheeses, garlic butter, and Italian spices.
• Cheesecake Factory Mac and Cheese Burger This hamburger topped with creamy macaroni and cheese patty, homemade cheese sauce and crispy fried onion rings.
• Panera Soups: Which do you order when you go to Panera?  Whether it is the Bistro French Onion Soup, The Creamy Tomato Bisque or the Broccoli Cheddar Macaroni, we have a copycat for you.
• California Pizza Company Club Pizza: The CPK Club Pizza is a pizza that is topped with smoked bacon, avocado, mozzarella cheese, and a drizzle of homemade herbed mayo.