Why You’ll Love This Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip
- Crowd-Pleaser: This warm, cheesy dip is always a hit at parties!
- Decadently Creamy: A luxurious blend of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Loaded with Seafood: Tender shrimp and crab add a burst of flavor and protein.
- A Spinach Twist: Nutritious spinach balances the richness perfectly.
Tools You’ll Need
- Oven-safe serving dish
- Skillet for sautéing
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish (8×8 or similar)
- Spatula
Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Description
There’s nothing like the creamy, rich flavors of a hot spinach dip combined with succulent shrimp and crab to elevate your appetizer game! This Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip is the perfect party pleaser, great for gatherings or a cozy night in. Serve it with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh veggies for dipping, and watch it disappear in no time.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter: For sautéing.
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped: Small pieces work best for blending flavors.
- 1 cup crab meat, shredded: Use fresh, canned, or imitation crab.
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped: Or use frozen spinach (thawed and well-drained).
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The base of the creamy dip.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: For extra creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle savory kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: For a smoky touch.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty and gooey.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For a salty, nutty flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp and Spinach
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the spinach until wilted (or heated through if using frozen spinach). Drain any excess liquid.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until smooth.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
- Add the sautéed shrimp, spinach, crab meat, mozzarella, and Parmesan to the creamy mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Bake the Dip
- Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish. Spread it out evenly and sprinkle a little extra mozzarella on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite dippers like bread, crackers, or veggies.
Notes
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook just until pink to keep them tender.
- Drain Spinach Thoroughly: Excess liquid can make the dip watery.
- Customize the Cheese: Add a little sharp cheddar for extra flavor if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until hot.
- Freeze: This dip freezes well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use canned shrimp or crab?
Yes, just ensure they’re well-drained before adding to the dip.
Q2: Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it up to a day in advance, then bake right before serving.
Q3: Can I make this dip without seafood?
Yes! You can omit the shrimp and crab for a classic spinach dip.
Conclusion: A Must-Try for Seafood Lovers!
This Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip combines the best of creamy, cheesy comfort with fresh seafood flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself, it’s a guaranteed hit!
Tried this recipe? Share your thoughts and photos on social media using #SeafoodDipLove. We’d love to see your creations!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 240 | Protein: 14g | Carbohydrates: 4g | Fat: 19g | Fiber: 1g
Enjoy every warm, cheesy, seafood-packed bite!