This dip is a dream come true for cheese lovers! Packed with shrimp, crab, and creamy cheese, it’s perfect for sharing at parties—or keeping all to yourself if you want. 😉
Whenever I make this dip, I love to serve it with crunchy crackers or warm tortilla chips. Trust me, it’s hard to stop once you start. So, grab a plate and get ready for some cheesy joy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This provides a smooth base. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt. It changes the flavor slightly, but still creamy!
Mayonnaise: Regular mayonnaise gives a nice richness to the dip. You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for a tangy twist, or use a vegan mayo if you want a plant-based option.
Cheeses: Sharp cheddar and mozzarella create a creamy texture. Don’t have them? Try using gouda or pepper jack for a different flavor. Parmesan adds a salty touch; you can use nutritional yeast for a vegan choice.
Shrimp and Crab: Cooked shrimp is a must. You can use frozen shrimp—just thaw them beforehand. If crab is hard to find, try using more shrimp or even canned tuna for a different seafood option.
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powders add depth. If you have fresh garlic or onion, feel free to use them instead—just adjust the quantity based on your taste preference!
How Do I Make Sure My Dip is Perfectly Creamy and Flavorsome?
Combining the ingredients is key to achieving the right texture and flavor. Here’s how:
- Beat the cream cheese and mayonnaise really well until there are no lumps—this ensures a smooth dip.
- Be gentle when folding in the shrimp and crab. You want to keep those chunks intact for a delightful texture.
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking. This creates a delicious, golden crust—who doesn’t love extra cheese?
- Watch the timing! Keep an eye while baking; once it’s bubbly and golden, it’s ready. Overbaking can dry it out.
Serve it right from the oven for maximum gooeyness, and don’t forget your favorite dippers!
Irresistible Cheesy Shrimp & Crab Bake Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined, chopped or whole small shrimp
- 1/2 lb lump crab meat, drained and picked over for shells
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
For Serving:
- French baguette or crackers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to bake. That means you can have this cheesy goodness ready in just about 40 minutes—perfect for quick gatherings or cozy nights in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your dip will bake evenly and come out bubbly and golden.
2. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to mix them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. No lumps, please—it’ll make the dip a delight!
3. Add the Cheeses and Seasonings:
Next, add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses to the bowl. Also, toss in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until all the ingredients are nicely combined.
4. Fold in the Seafood:
Now it’s time to gently fold in the cooked shrimp, lump crab meat, chopped parsley, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce if you’re using it. Be careful to stir gently so you don’t break up the seafood too much—you want to keep those nice pieces intact!
5. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the dip mixture to a shallow oven-safe baking dish or gratin dish. Spread it out evenly in the dish for an even bake.
6. Add Extra Cheese:
For that melty top, sprinkle a little extra cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the surface. This will create a lovely golden crust when baked.
7. Bake the Dip:
Place your prepared dip in the preheated oven and bake it for about 20-25 minutes. It’s done when the dip is bubbly and golden brown on top. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and sprinkle more chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish. Serve it warm with toasted baguette slices or your favorite crackers for dipping.
Enjoy this rich, cheesy, seafood-packed dip that’s perfect for any appetizer spread or a cozy night in!
Can I Use Fresh Shrimp Instead of Cooked Shrimp?
Absolutely! If using fresh shrimp, make sure to cook them first before chopping for the dip. You can sauté them in a bit of olive oil until they’re pink and opaque, which usually takes just a few minutes.
What Can I Use as a Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor or sour cream for creaminess. Both work well, but they may slightly alter the flavor profile of the dip.
How to Store Leftover Dip?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip the day before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it right before you’re ready to serve. It may take a few extra minutes to bake from the fridge, so keep that in mind!