The Cheesy Shrimp & Crab Dip is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that impresses guests. Its creamy, seafood-packed flavor makes it irresistible and perfect for sharing at parties, gatherings, or simply enjoying with family.
Ingredients
To make this tasty dip, you’ll need:
- 1 cup cooked and chopped shrimp
- 1 cup lump crab meat (drained)
- 8 oz softened cream cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions or chives, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay or Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Toasted baguette slices, crackers, or vegetables for serving
How to Make This Delicious Dip
Simple Steps:
- Prepare the base: Mix the cream cheese, sour cream, garlic, Old Bay, salt, pepper, and hot sauce until smooth and well combined.
- Add seafood: Fold in the shrimp, crab, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, and chopped green onions. Mix well.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture into an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Broil (optional): For an extra crispy top, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh chives or green onions and serve hot with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh seafood: High-quality shrimp and crab will give the best flavor.
- Make ahead: Prepare the mixture in advance and bake just before serving.
- Adjust spice level: Add more hot sauce or red pepper flakes if you like it spicier.
- Experiment with cheeses: Try adding cheddar or more cream cheese for different textures and tastes.
How to Serve and Pair
This dip is versatile and pairs well with many sides:
- Crusty bread or crackers: The classic pairing.
- Fresh vegetables: Carrots, celery, cucumbers, or bell peppers for a lighter, healthier option.
- Tortilla chips or pita chips: For extra crunch.
- At parties: Ideal as an appetizer for gatherings, family dinners, or game nights.
Variations to Try
Want to change things up? Here are some fun ideas:
- Blue cheese: Add crumbled blue cheese for a tangy twist.
- Smoked flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or pimentón for a smoky dimension.
- Other seafood: Use lobster, scallops, or mussels for a more luxurious version.
- Healthier version: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and reduce the cheese for a lighter option.
The Cheesy Shrimp & Crab Dip is a simple, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s bursting with flavor. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create an impressive appetizer that will delight everyone. Give it a try and enjoy its rich, savory, seafood goodness!
