Baked Shrimp Dip Recipe

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.

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

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Spray an 8 x 8-inch oven-safe skillet with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. 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.
3. Step 3: Fold the chopped shrimp and 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese into the cream cheese mixture until evenly distributed.
4. Step 4: Pour the mixture into the prepared skillet and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
5. 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.
6. 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

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.

Baked Shrimp Dip Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 56 reviews

This Baked Shrimp Dip is a creamy, cheesy appetizer perfect for gatherings and snacks. Featuring a blend of cream cheese, garlic, lemon juice, and tender shrimp, it is baked until golden and bubbly and served warm with crackers or crostini.

• Author: Natalie
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dip 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

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Skillet: Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Spray an 8 x 8-inch oven-safe skillet with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Cream Cheese and Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, kosher salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly to create a smooth, flavorful base for the dip.
3. Fold in Shrimp and Cheese: Gently fold in the chopped thawed shrimp and 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese into the cream cheese mixture until evenly combined.
4. Transfer to Skillet and Top with Cheese: Pour the shrimp mixture into the prepared skillet and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella cheese on top for a cheesy crust.
5. Bake the Dip: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is golden brown and bubbly. Note that the dip may be runny when first removed from the oven but will thicken as it cools.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm with crackers or crostini for dipping. Enjoy your delicious baked shrimp dip!

Notes

• This dip thickens as it cools, so allow it to rest for a few minutes after baking before serving.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
• If desired, adjust red pepper flakes to control the level of spiciness.
• Can be made ahead and reheated gently before serving.
• Substitute mozzarella with Monterey Jack or a mild cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Keywords: baked shrimp dip, shrimp appetizer, cheesy shrimp dip, party dip, seafood dip