Shrimp Dip

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I’ve always had a soft spot for dips—something about a creamy, flavor-packed bowl surrounded by crunchy veggies and toasted baguette slices just feels festive. This Shrimp Dip isn’t just your average party appetizer. It’s rich, tangy, and loaded with tender bites of shrimp that make every scoop feel like a little indulgence. Whether I’m hosting a casual game night or prepping a holiday spread, this dip never fails to disappear fast.

What I love most about this dip is how it balances elegance with simplicity. It tastes like something you’d find at a coastal seafood bistro, yet it’s incredibly easy to whip up in your home kitchen. A few staple ingredients, a little mixing, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing appetizer ready in minutes. If you’re looking to impress without the stress, this Creamy Shrimp Dip is your new go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Dip

It’s quick to make—ready in under 15 minutes, with no baking required. The texture is incredibly creamy with just the right amount of crunch from green onions and chopped shrimp. It pairs well with almost anything: crackers, crostini, carrots, celery, you name it. Perfect for holidays, brunches, potlucks, or any time you need a make-ahead dip that everyone will love.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

I recommend using small, cooked shrimp—fresh or frozen both work well. Just be sure to thaw and pat dry if using frozen. I usually go for the already peeled and deveined variety to save time. You can give them a quick chop or pulse them briefly in a food processor for a finer texture. If you want a bit more bite, leave them slightly chunkier.

Options for Substitutions

Don’t eat shrimp? You can easily substitute cooked crab, canned salmon, or even chopped artichoke hearts. Want a lighter dip? Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream or cream cheese. If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based cream cheese alternative. You can also play with the flavor by adding a splash of hot sauce, horseradish, or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning for an extra coastal vibe.

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Ingredients for This Shrimp Dip

Cream Cheese – This is the creamy base that gives the dip its rich and luscious texture. Be sure to let it soften to room temperature so it mixes easily.

Sour Cream – Adds tang and helps lighten up the cream cheese for a smooth, scoopable consistency.

Cooked Shrimp – The star of the dip! Chopped small to distribute the sweet, briny flavor throughout every bite.

Green Onions – Brings a pop of freshness and a mild oniony bite without overpowering the dip.

Worcestershire Sauce – A small amount adds savory depth and umami to the mix.

Garlic Powder – Gives that mellow garlic flavor without being too sharp or pungent.

Lemon Juice – Adds brightness and helps balance the richness of the dip.

Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.

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Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

If you’re using frozen cooked shrimp, thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels to avoid watering down the dip. Chop the shrimp finely or pulse them briefly in a food processor depending on the texture you prefer.

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Step 2: Soften the Cream Cheese

Place the cream cheese in a large mixing bowl and let it come to room temperature. This step is important for achieving a smooth, creamy base that mixes easily with the other ingredients.

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Step 3: Mix the Base Ingredients

Add the sour cream to the cream cheese and beat together using a hand mixer or sturdy spatula until completely smooth and combined.

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Step 4: Add Seasonings and Shrimp

Stir in the lemon juice, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Then fold in the chopped shrimp and green onions, making sure everything is evenly distributed.

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Step 5: Chill the Dip

Cover the dip and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up slightly, making it easier to scoop and spread.

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Step 6: Serve

Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, garnish with extra chopped green onions if desired, and serve with crackers, crostini, or fresh veggies like celery and carrot sticks.

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How Long to Prepare the Shrimp Dip

Prep Time: The hands-on preparation takes about 15 minutes. That includes chopping the shrimp, softening the cream cheese, and mixing everything together. It’s incredibly fast—especially if you use pre-cooked shrimp.

Chill Time: To get the best flavor and consistency, the dip should rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the ingredients to meld and gives the dip a creamier, more cohesive texture.

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Tips for Perfect Shrimp Dip

• Use room temperature cream cheese to make mixing easier and smoother.
• Finely chop the shrimp so it blends well with the creamy base and doesn’t overwhelm each bite.
• Taste before serving and adjust salt, lemon juice, or seasonings as needed.
• Let it chill before serving—the flavors improve the longer it sits.
• Garnish before serving with fresh herbs or green onions for a bright, appealing finish.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using wet shrimp – Always pat dry the shrimp to avoid watery dip.
• Skipping the chill time – Serving it too soon means the flavors won’t have had time to blend.
• Overmixing – Stir gently when adding the shrimp to maintain texture.
• Using low-fat substitutes – These can make the dip runny or less flavorful.
• Over-seasoning early – Always taste after chilling and adjust.

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What to Serve With Shrimp Dip?

1. Toasted Baguette Slices

The crisp texture complements the creamy dip perfectly and adds a gourmet touch.

2. Celery Sticks

A crunchy, refreshing, low-carb option that pairs well with the rich dip.

3. Carrot Sticks

Sweet and sturdy, they balance the savory shrimp flavor nicely.

4. Crackers

From buttery rounds to crisp flatbreads, crackers are always a classic choice.

5. Cucumber Slices

Cool, light, and refreshing—great for balancing the creaminess of the dip.

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Storage Instructions

In the Refrigerator: Store leftover shrimp dip in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Give it a gentle stir before serving again, as some separation may occur.

Do Not Freeze: Due to the cream cheese and sour cream base, freezing this dip is not recommended. The texture becomes grainy and watery once thawed.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the dip a day in advance—just keep it covered and refrigerated. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day!

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx. 2 tbsp)

• Calories: 90
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make shrimp dip ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, making it a day ahead enhances the flavor. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to serve.

What kind of shrimp is best for this dip?

Use small cooked shrimp—fresh or frozen. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and pat them dry well.

Can I serve this dip warm?

This dip is best served chilled, but you can let it sit out for 10–15 minutes before serving to slightly soften the texture.

Is there a spicy version of this dip?

Absolutely. Add a dash of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapeños for heat.

Can I make this dip dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream alternatives. Just note the texture might vary slightly.

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Conclusion

Shrimp Dip is the kind of recipe that brings people together. It’s comforting, satisfying, and impressive without being complicated. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, planning a holiday spread, or just want something tasty for the weekend, this dip delivers every time. With its creamy base, savory shrimp, and zesty undertones, it’s the kind of dish that always earns you recipe requests.

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