Shrimp Dip Recipe

Creamy Dreamy Shrimp Dip Recipe for Party Magic

Creamy homemade shrimp dip promises to be your next party sensation!

Unexpected flavor combinations make this appetizer stand out from typical seafood spreads.

Succulent coastal shellfish blend perfectly with rich cream cheese and zesty herbs.

Each spoonful delivers a luxurious taste that feels both comforting and exciting.

Smart cooks know this recipe works magic for casual gatherings.

Mediterranean-inspired ingredients create an irresistible texture that keeps guests coming back for more.

You’ll want to serve this crowd-pleasing dip with crisp crackers or fresh vegetables.

Dive into this delectable recipe and watch everyone request seconds!

Pro Tips for Blending Flavors Just Right

  • Soften Cream Cheese Perfectly: Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing to achieve ultra-smooth consistency without lumps.
  • Customize Seasoning Levels: Adjust Old Bay and garlic powder according to personal taste preferences, starting with small amounts and tasting gradually.
  • Choose Fresh Shrimp Wisely: Select cooked, peeled shrimp and chop into small, uniform pieces for even distribution throughout the dip.
  • Maximize Flavor Development: Refrigerate dip overnight to allow seasonings to blend and intensify, creating a more delicious appetizer.
  • Explore Texture Variations: Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra crunch and subtle heat if desired.

Keeping Shrimp Dip Ready to Serve Again

  • Store leftover shrimp dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it sealed tightly to prevent absorbing other food odors.
  • Do not freeze this dip, as the cream cheese and sour cream will separate and lose their creamy texture when thawed.
  • Enjoy this dip cold straight from the refrigerator. If needed, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly before serving.
  • Discard the dip if you notice any off smells, unusual texture, or signs of spoilage before the 3-day mark.

Dippers That Go Great with Shrimp Dip

  • Crisp White Wine Pairing that highlights the shrimp's delicate taste and cuts through the creamy texture.
  • Serve with stone-ground wheat crackers that provide a sturdy, nutty base supporting the rich seafood spread.
  • Light, citrusy beer like a wheat ale or Belgian-style wit complements the zesty lemon and herb notes in the dip.
  • Select crunchy raw vegetables like cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, and celery sticks for a fresh, healthy accompaniment that adds textural contrast.

Shrimp Dip Versions to Keep Things Interesting

  • Dairy-Free Delight: Replace cream cheese with cashew cream and use coconut milk yogurt instead of sour cream for a creamy, plant-based alternative.
  • Keto-Friendly Option: Swap crackers for cucumber slices or pork rinds, and use full-fat cream cheese to maintain low-carb macros.
  • Spicy Seafood Spin: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat, and mix in chopped fresh cilantro for a zesty flavor profile.
  • Mediterranean Inspired: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, chopped kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of dried oregano for a Greek-inspired variation.

Dip FAQs for the Seafood Lover

  • Can I use frozen shrimp for this dip?

Yes, just thaw them completely, pat dry, and chop into small pieces before adding to the dip.

  • How fine should I chop the shrimp?

Aim for small, bite-sized pieces about 1/4 to 1/2 inch in size so they mix well throughout the dip.

  • Is this dip good for parties?

Absolutely! It’s a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s easy to make ahead and always disappears quickly at gatherings.

  • Can I make this dip spicy?

Add a dash of hot sauce or some cayenne pepper to give the dip a kick of heat if you like spicy flavors.

Why Shrimp Dip Disappears Fast at Any Party

  • A crowd-favorite dip that comes together in minutes with minimal cooking skills required.
  • Easily swap ingredients or adjust seasonings to match personal taste preferences or dietary needs without compromising deliciousness.
  • Make this dip a day in advance, allowing flavors to meld and saving precious time during party preparation or game day gatherings.
  • Serves multiple purposes as an appetizer, game day snack, potluck contribution, or casual entertainment spread that appeals to seafood lovers and casual eaters alike.

What You’ll Need for This Creamy Dip

Creamy Base:
  • Cream Cheese: Provides a rich, smooth foundation for the dip. Full-fat version recommended for best texture.
  • Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and helps create a light, creamy consistency. Choose full-fat for richer flavor.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Lemon Juice: Brightens the overall taste and adds a fresh citrus note. Fresh lemon is best.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Delivers deep, savory umami flavor. Classic ingredient for depth.
  • Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Provide subtle, consistent background seasoning. Opt for high-quality spices.
  • Old Bay Seasoning: Classic seafood seasoning with signature herb and spice blend. Maryland-style seafood signature.
Protein and Vegetable Mix:
  • Shrimp, Green Onions, Celery: Add texture, freshness, and maritime flavor to the dip. Fresh shrimp preferred, finely chopped. Green onions provide mild onion taste. Celery brings subtle crunch.
Finishing Seasonings:
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Final touch for balancing and enhancing overall flavor. Adjust to personal taste preference.

How to Make Shrimp Dip That’s Rich and Tangy

Step 1: Whip the Cream Cheese

Grab a medium mixing bowl and beat the cream cheese until it becomes silky smooth and free of lumps. Use an electric mixer or whisk with vigor to create a perfect base.

Step 2: Blend Flavor Boosters

Stir in the following ingredients to create a zesty foundation:
  • Sour cream
  • Lemon juice
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Old Bay seasoning

Mix everything together until well combined and the mixture looks uniform.

Step 3: Incorporate Sea Treasures

Gently fold in the seafood goodness:
  • Chopped shrimp
  • Sliced green onions
  • Diced celery (optional)

Blend carefully to distribute ingredients evenly without breaking down the delicate shrimp pieces.

Step 4: Perfect the Seasoning

Taste the dip and adjust with salt and pepper to match your flavor preference. Give it a final gentle stir to ensure even distribution of seasonings.

Step 5: Chill and Develop Flavors

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour. This resting time allows the flavors to mingle and intensify.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Present the dip cold alongside an array of dippers such as:
  • Crispy crackers
  • Tortilla chips
  • Fresh raw vegetables

Scoop, spread, and savor this crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s sure to impress!

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Shrimp Dip Recipe

Shrimp Dip Recipe


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4.7 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy shrimp dip brings coastal charm to your appetizer spread, blending zesty seafood flavors with smooth cream cheese. Guests will devour this irresistible starter, making it an instant party favorite that promises to vanish from the serving platter in minutes.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup small cooked shrimp, chopped (canned, frozen & thawed, or fresh)
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (120 milliliters) sour cream

Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or to taste)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish Ingredients:

  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) finely chopped celery (optional)

Instructions

  1. Whip the cream cheese in a spacious mixing vessel until it reaches a silky, uniform consistency.
  2. Incorporate the tangy sour cream, zesty lemon juice, umami-rich Worcestershire sauce, aromatic garlic powder, sweet onion powder, and signature Old Bay seasoning, blending thoroughly to create a harmonious flavor profile.
  3. Gently introduce the delicate, chopped shrimp, crisp green onions, and optional crunchy celery, folding them into the creamy mixture with a light touch to preserve their texture.
  4. Evaluate the dip’s seasoning, delicately adjusting with salt and pepper to enhance the overall taste balance.
  5. Seal the dip in an airtight container and refrigerate for a minimum of 60 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
  6. Present the chilled dip alongside an array of accompaniments such as crisp crackers, hearty tortilla chips, or fresh, raw vegetable sticks for a delightful appetizer experience.

Notes

  • Keep cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother texture.
  • Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and avoid pre-cooked or frozen shrimp if possible.
  • Chop shrimp into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the dip.
  • Adjust seasoning gradually, tasting as you go to prevent over-salting the dip.
  • For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use reduced-fat cream cheese.
  • Make the dip ahead of time and let it sit overnight to enhance the flavors and allow ingredients to meld together.
  • Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 26 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 9 g
  • Protein: 34 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
Jessica Martinez

Jessica Martinez

Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Organic Baking Techniques, Gluten-Free Recipe Development, Southwestern Dessert Specialties, Food Styling and Photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College (SFCC)

  • Program: Certificate in Patisserie
  • Focus: Cultivating disciplined kitchen preparation for a safe, organized, and sanitary workstation; mastering the timely production of nutritious, visually appealing pastries; safely operating standard pastry equipment; and honing core patissier techniques for professional pastry work.

Jessica brings the sweet side to Urban Organic with her passion for baking and love for the Southwest. She trained at Santa Fe Community College and has built a career creating beautiful, gluten-free, and organic desserts that feel both nostalgic and new.

She believes baking should be fun, creative, and open to everyone, no matter your diet or skill level. Jessica’s recipes are simple enough to follow, but special enough to remember.

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