Introduction

This baked shrimp dip is a creamy, cheesy appetizer that’s perfect for parties or casual gatherings. Made with tender shrimp and a blend of cream cheese and mozzarella, it’s flavorful and easy to prepare. Serve it warm with crackers or crostini for an irresistible treat.

The dish is a creamy baked shrimp dip served in a round skillet with a red handle, placed on a brown cloth on a white marbled texture. The dip has two main layers: a thick, white creamy base with a smooth and slightly bubbly texture around the edges, and a golden-brown melted cheese layer on top, unevenly browned with some light crispy spots. In the center, there is a small pile of pink cooked shrimp, garnished with finely chopped green herbs scattered lightly over the cheese and shrimp. Around the skillet, there are white round bread slices, a few lemon halves, fresh green parsley leaves, and a small wooden bowl filled with finely chopped green herbs. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 pinch red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1 medium lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
1 package (12 ounces) frozen cooked small shrimp, peeled, deveined, thawed, chopped
1 ½ cups (169.5 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided
Parsley, chopped for garnish
Crackers or crostini, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Spray an 8 x 8-inch oven-safe skillet with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, kosher salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Mix well until smooth.
Step 3: Fold the chopped shrimp and 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese into the cream cheese mixture until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Pour the mixture into the prepared skillet and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is golden and bubbly. It may be slightly runny when first removed but will thicken as it cools.
Step 6: Garnish the baked dip with chopped parsley and serve warm with crackers or crostini. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor and brightness in the dip.
For extra heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Try substituting mozzarella with Monterey Jack or a mild cheddar for a different taste.
Prepare the dip a few hours ahead and refrigerate; bake just before serving for convenience.

Storage

Store leftover baked shrimp dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warm and bubbly. Avoid overheating to maintain the creamy texture.

How to Serve

A close-up of a white bowl filled with creamy white melted cheese dip that contains small pink shrimp and green herbs mixed inside. The top layer is lightly browned and bubbly with melted cheese, golden shrimp pieces, and sprinkled green herbs. A white chip is scooping up a thick portion of the dip, showing stretchy melted cheese between the chip and the bowl. A woman's hand with light pink nail polish is holding the chip. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen cooked shrimp?

Yes, you can use fresh shrimp. Be sure to cook, peel, and chop them before adding to the dip. Using cooked shrimp helps keep the dip from becoming watery.

Is it possible to make this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the mixture and refrigerate it in the skillet or a baking dish. When ready to serve, bake as directed. This saves time and ensures a warm dip at your event.