Shrimp Dip Recipe
This creamy Shrimp Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer made with tender shrimp, tangy cream cheese, zesty seasonings, and fresh herbs. Whether served cold or baked until bubbly with cheese, it’s perfect for parties, holidays, or game day snacking. Customize it with flavor boosters like lemon, garlic, or jalapeño, and pair it with crackers, veggies, or toasted baguette slices for the ultimate dip experience.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or sturdy spoon
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Baking dish (for hot version)
- Serving bowl or shallow platter
- Spatula or spoon for spreading
- Optional: food processor (for smoother texture)
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream or mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (fresh preferred)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp hot sauce (optional)
- ½ tsp garlic powder or 1 small garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Shrimp:
- 1 cup small cooked shrimp (peeled, deveined, chopped)
Add-Ins:
- 2 tbsp chopped scallions or red onion
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
Optional (for baked version):
- 1 cup shredded cheddar, Gruyère, or mozzarella
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
- 2 tbsp diced celery or jalapeños (for texture or heat)
Instructions
Cold Shrimp Dip:
- In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sour cream, lemon juice, Worcestershire, hot sauce, and garlic. Mix well.
- Fold in chopped shrimp, scallions, and herbs.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve with crackers, crostini, celery sticks, or cucumber slices.
Baked Shrimp Dip (Cheesy Version):
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Follow steps 1–3 above, then stir in shredded cheese and optional add-ins.
- Transfer to a greased 8×8 baking dish.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden and bubbling.
- Serve hot with toasted baguette slices or tortilla chips.
Notes
- Best Shrimp to Use: Small salad shrimp or chopped larger cooked shrimp work well. Pat them dry to prevent watery dip.
- Soften Cream Cheese: Let it sit at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- Flavor Variations: Try Cajun seasoning, bacon, jalapeños, or avocado for a twist.
- Make Ahead: Chill overnight for stronger flavor—just stir before serving.
- Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Do not freeze.
- Safety Tip: Don’t leave out at room temp for more than 2 hours due to dairy and seafood content.