This Cream Cheese Shrimp Dip is a creamy and tasty treat, loaded with shrimp and cheesy goodness. Perfect for parties or just a fun snack at home!
Whenever I make this dip, it disappears in minutes! I love serving it with crunchy crackers, and it’s always a hit. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this yummy appetizer!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the star of the dip. Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich taste. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Neufchâtel cheese works well, too!
Sour Cream: Adds tanginess to the dip. Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute if you prefer something a bit healthier or creamier.
Cooked Shrimp: Fresh shrimp gives the best flavor, but frozen shrimp is just fine. If shrimp isn’t your thing, you could try using crab meat or even canned tuna for a different twist.
Chives: These add a mild onion flavor and a nice color. If you don’t have chives, green onions or finely chopped parsley can be good replacements.
How Do You Make Creamy Dip Without Overmixing?
Mixing can be tricky! You want your ingredients combined well without overdoing it, which could make everything too mushy. Follow these steps:
- Start with softened cream cheese to make blending easier.
- Mix the creamy ingredients together first and then add spices to avoid clumps.
- When adding shrimp and chives, gently fold them in with a spatula instead of stirring vigorously.
- Chilling the dip helps flavors meld without overmixing.
These tips will help you create a perfectly textured dip that’s full of flavor. Enjoy this easy recipe at any gathering!
How to Make Cream Cheese Shrimp Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and chopped (or small whole shrimp)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for garnish)
- Crackers, carrot sticks, celery sticks, and fresh parsley for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cream Cheese Shrimp Dip takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you have time, refrigerate the dip for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to blend beautifully, making it even tastier!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a medium mixing bowl, take your softened cream cheese and add the sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Use a mixer or a spatula to blend everything until it’s nice and smooth. This is the creamy base of your dip!
2. Season It Up:
Next, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir these seasonings into the creamy mix to give the dip lots of flavor. Tasting as you go will help you adjust the flavors just right!
3. Add the Shrimp and Chives:
Now it’s time for the star ingredients! Gently fold in the chopped cooked shrimp and the fresh chives. Make sure everything is evenly mixed but be careful not to overdo it, so you keep some texture.
4. Serve It Up:
Transfer your dip to a pretty serving bowl. For that extra flair, sprinkle the top with smoked paprika and some chopped chives for a pop of color.
5. Final Touches:
Serve immediately with a platter of crackers, carrot sticks, celery sticks, and some fresh parsley for extra greens. If you’re not serving it right away, cover and refrigerate the dip until you’re ready to enjoy it!
6. Enjoy!
Dig in and share this creamy, flavorful shrimp dip at your next gathering or savor it as a delightful snack anytime. It’s sure to be a hit!
This recipe yields a rich and satisfying dip with a perfect balance of creaminess, zest, and shrimp goodness. Enjoy your dip with friends and family!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Dip?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to fully thaw and drain them before adding to the dip. You can thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in a sealed bag placed in cold water.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This dip can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and stir again before serving for the best consistency.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, give it a good stir and add a splash of sour cream if it seems a little thick.
What Can I Serve with Cream Cheese Shrimp Dip?
This dip pairs perfectly with crunchy crackers, fresh vegetable sticks like carrot and celery, or even tortilla chips. Feel free to get creative with your dippers!
