This creamy shrimp dip is a crowd-pleaser! Made with rich cream cheese, tender shrimp, and zesty spices, it’s perfect for parties or a cozy snack.
You can serve it warm or cold, and it pairs wonderfully with crunchy crackers or fresh veggies. It’s hard to stop at one scoop—trust me, I’ve tried! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of your dip, providing creaminess. Make sure it’s softened to mix easily. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese instead, which has less fat but a similar taste.
Cooked Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works great. If you prefer, you can substitute it with canned shrimp for convenience. Just rinse and drain well to get rid of excess salt.
Mayonnaise: Regular mayo adds richness, but you can use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist and lower calories. Just take note it may change the flavor a bit!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice gives brightness. Bottled is fine too; just make sure it’s 100% lemon juice. Lime juice is an excellent substitute if you want a different citrus flair.
How Do I Get My Dip Super Creamy?
Getting that perfect creamy texture is key! Start with softened cream cheese; this makes it easier to blend. Here’s how you can achieve the best results:
- Beat the cream cheese first until it’s fluffy and smooth before adding other ingredients. This prevents lumps.
- Mix in the mayonnaise gradually. If you prefer a thinner dip, feel free to add a splash more.
- Chill the dip for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully!
Remember, adjustments are okay! Taste as you go to ensure it’s just the way you love it. Enjoy making this dip for your gatherings!
Cream Cheese Shrimp Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cream Cheese Shrimp Dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, you’re looking at around 40 minutes total before it’s ready to serve. Perfect for a quick appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a medium bowl, begin by beating the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and fluffy. This will be the creamy base of your dip, so take your time to ensure it’s well-mixed.
2. Add Flavor:
Next, add in the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir these together thoroughly until everything is combined, creating a flavorful mix.
3. Fold in the Shrimp:
Now, gently fold in your finely chopped cooked shrimp. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dip without breaking them apart too much. You want those delightful shrimp bites in every scoop!
4. Prepare for Serving:
Transfer your dip to a serving bowl. For a little extra touch, sprinkle some smoked paprika and the chopped green onions on top as a garnish. It makes it look pretty!
5. Chill and Serve:
Wrap the bowl in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy, serve it cold or at room temperature with your choice of crackers or sliced baguette.
Enjoy your delicious, creamy shrimp dip at your next gathering or as a tasty snack!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Dip?
Absolutely! If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before chopping. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
How Do I Make It Spicier?
If you like a little heat, try adding some diced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to the mix. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste to avoid overpowering the dip!
Can I Prepare This Dip the Day Before?
Yes, you can make this dip the day before! Just prepare it as directed and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover shrimp dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it tightly to keep it fresh. When ready to serve again, you can enjoy it cold or gently reheat it in the microwave if you prefer it warm.