This Cajun Shrimp Dip is creamy, spicy, and packed with flavor! Made with shrimp, cream cheese, and a kick of Cajun spices, it’s perfect for sharing with friends at parties.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use cooked, peeled, and deveined shrimp for a quick prep. If you’re short on shrimp or prefer plant-based options, consider using canned artichokes or chickpeas for a different texture.
Cream Cheese: A main player for creaminess! Neufchâtel or a vegan cream cheese can substitute for a lighter or dairy-free version.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar works best for flavor, but feel free to use a milder cheddar or any cheese you enjoy! Pepper Jack can add a lovely kick.
Cajun Seasoning: If you don’t have this on hand, mix paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne for a make-your-own blend. Adjust the spices based on your heat preference.
Green Onions: Fresh chives or even diced bell peppers can work well instead if you want a milder taste.
How Do I Get the Cream Cheese to Mix Smoothly?
To achieve a smooth dip, it’s crucial to start with softened cream cheese. Take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you begin. You can also cut it into smaller pieces to speed up softening. A hand mixer or whisk will help blend everything smoothly.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature, making mixing easier.
- Mix the cream cheese with sour cream and mayonnaise first for a smoother base.
Remember not to overmix after adding shrimp—gently folding in keeps the dip chunky and tasty!
How to Make Cajun Shrimp Dip?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 1 lb (450g) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined (reserve a few whole shrimp for garnish)
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions or chives (plus more for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Juice of half a lemon
For Serving:
- Toasted baguette or crostini
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cajun Shrimp Dip takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 20-25 minutes to bake. So in total, you should set aside around 40-45 minutes to get everything ready and enjoy this creamy, spicy dip straight from the oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your dip bakes evenly and deliciously.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
Chop most of the cooked shrimp into small pieces. Make sure to leave a few whole shrimp aside for garnishing later. This adds a nice touch when serving!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped green onions (or chives), Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and well combined.
4. Add the Shrimp:
Gently fold in the chopped shrimp into the cheese mixture. This helps to evenly distribute the shrimp throughout the dip while keeping some texture. Be careful not to over-mix!
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the mixture into a cast iron skillet or an oven-safe dish. Use a spatula to smooth out the surface, making it look nice for baking.
6. Garnish:
Place the reserved whole shrimp on top for a lovely garnish. You can also sprinkle some extra chopped green onions or chives over the top for added color and flavor.
7. Bake the Dip:
Put the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is heated through, bubbly, and the top is golden brown. It should smell amazing!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, carefully remove the dip from the oven and let it cool slightly. This will ensure you don’t burn your mouth when diving in!
9. Enjoy!
Serve the warm dip with toasted baguette slices or crostini for dipping. Enjoy your creamy, spicy Cajun Shrimp Dip with friends or family—it’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Fresh Shrimp Instead of Cooked Shrimp?
Yes, you can use fresh shrimp! Just make sure to cook them thoroughly before chopping and mixing into the dip. Boil or sauté the shrimp until they’re pink and opaque, then chop them and proceed with the recipe.
Can I Make This Dip Spicier?
Absolutely! To add more heat, increase the cayenne pepper or Cajun seasoning according to your taste preference. You can also include diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce for an extra kick!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of cream or sour cream to maintain creaminess if the dip thickens.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead of time! Mix all the ingredients together and refrigerate it without baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to allow it to heat through completely.
