If you are searching for the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer, this Creamy Baked Shrimp Dip is the perfect choice. It is the ideal blend of rich, melted cheeses, savory seasonings, and tender shrimp—essentially “big snack energy” in a bowl.
Whether you are hosting a holiday party, a game day spread, or simply need a treat that the children will enjoy, this dip delivers. It is incredibly easy to prepare, but the bubbling, golden-brown edges make it look and taste as though you spent hours in the kitchen. Ensure you have your crackers ready, because this dish will disappear quickly!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups cooked shrimp, chopped small
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 half cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 half teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 half teaspoon salt
- 1 half teaspoon black pepper
Step By Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix The Creamy Stuff
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix until the texture is silky smooth (consider this your arm workout for the day!).
Step 2: Add All The Spices
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. The aroma at this stage is incredible—get ready to feel fancy.
Step 3: Add All The Cheese
Fold in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella. The bowl will start getting heavy now; that’s just the “big snack energy” kicking in.
Step 4: Add The Shrimp
Gently toss in the chopped shrimp. Stir carefully to ensure the pieces stay intact and evenly distributed for that perfect party-ready look.
Step 5: Bake The Dip
Transfer the mixture into a small baking dish and smooth out the top. Bake at 350°F for approximately 20 minutes. You are looking for golden edges and a bubbling center—the kind that inspires a little “wiggle dance.”
Step 6: Serve It Up
Serve hot alongside your favorite crackers or toasted baguette slices. Watch it disappear in record time!
Meal Prep Tips
Making this creamy shrimp dip ahead of time saves a lot of stress, especially when you want to serve it for parties or busy nights. Here is how I like to prep it:
- Chop the shrimp and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days before mixing.
- Mix the creamy base (cream cheese, sour cream, mayo, and spices) in advance and store separately in a bowl with a lid.
- Combine shrimp and creamy base just before baking for the freshest flavor.
- Portion the dip into small baking dishes if serving for multiple events. This makes it faster to bake and serve.
Storage Tips
Leftovers happen and this dip keeps really well. Proper storage makes it easy to enjoy later:
- Store baked dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 325 degrees for 10-15 minutes until warm and bubbly.
- You can also reheat small portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes.
- Do not freeze baked dip as the texture can get grainy, but you can freeze the uncooked mixture for up to 1 month and bake fresh when needed.
FAQs About Creamy Shrimp Dip
Can I use frozen shrimp for this dip?
Yes, but make sure the shrimp is fully thawed and patted dry before chopping. Extra water can make the dip runny.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the shrimp and creamy mixture separately a day in advance. Combine and bake right before serving for best flavor.
What can I serve with this dip?
Crackers, toasted bread, sliced baguette, or fresh veggie sticks all work really well.
Can I make this dip spicier?
Absolutely. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or even a little hot sauce to taste.
How long does the baked dip last in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm and bubbly.
Creamy Shrimp Dip Recipe Card
Creamy Shrimp Dip Recipe Card
Ingredients
- 2 cups shrimp cooked chopped small
- 8 ounces cheese cream softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise in a large bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Fold in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until evenly distributed.
- Gently fold in the chopped shrimp, making sure the pieces stay evenly mixed.
- Transfer the mixture to a small baking dish. Smooth the top and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until golden around the edges and bubbly.
- Serve warm with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh veggie sticks.
Notes
- Chop shrimp small for even distribution.
- Let dip sit a few minutes before serving for thicker texture.
- Sprinkle extra paprika on top for a pretty golden finish.
- Prep ingredients ahead to save time for parties.
- Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce for a spicy version.
- Swap cheeses: try pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor.
- Mix in chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
- Make mini individual servings in ramekins for easy portioning.
This Creamy Baked Shrimp Dip is a fantastic addition to any gathering, offering a rich and comforting flavor that is consistently a favorite among guests. Its combination of simple preparation and impressive results makes it an excellent choice for both experienced cooks and those who are new to the kitchen. Once you see how quickly your friends and family clear the dish, it will undoubtedly become a regular part of your recipe rotation.
