Creamy Hot Shrimp Dip (Homemade Version)
This Creamy Hot Shrimp Dip is a delicious twist on the classic, packed with tender shrimp and creamy, cheesy goodness. It’s perfect for parties, game day, or a cozy night in with some friends. The rich, savory flavors from shrimp, cream cheese, and a bit of heat make this dip irresistibly flavorful. Serve it with crackers, chips, or veggies for dipping!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies for serving
Instructions
1. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until pink and opaque. Remove from the pan, chop them into smaller pieces, and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Make the Creamy Base:
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked shrimp and sautéed garlic into the creamy mixture. Stir to combine and make sure the shrimp is evenly distributed throughout.
5. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the shrimp mixture to a baking dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top for extra meltiness and a golden finish.
6. Bake the Dip:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly and the cheese on top is golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let the dip cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and added flavor. Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, celery, or cucumber slices for dipping.
Notes
- Add Some Spice: If you like your dip spicier, add more cayenne pepper or even a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
- Cheese Variations: For an even richer dip, try adding a bit of cream cheese with herbs or using a combination of cheeses like sharp cheddar or Gouda.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the dip up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving.
- Use Pre-cooked Shrimp: For a shortcut, you can use pre-cooked shrimp. Just chop it up and add it to the mixture without cooking it again.
Nutrition
- Calories: ~300 kcal per serving