This Cajun Shrimp Dip is a creamy and spicy treat packed with flavorful shrimp and a zesty kick! Perfect for parties, it’s always a hit with friends and family.
Serving this dip with crunchy chips is a must! I can’t help sneaking a few extra bites when no one’s watching—can you relate? 😄 Enjoy it warm or chilled!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp are great for this dip, but you can use frozen shrimp as well. Just thaw them first. If you’re not a fan of shrimp, cooked chicken or even canned tuna can work as a substitute.
Cajun seasoning: You can make your own Cajun seasoning using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano if you prefer a homemade blend. It’s a fun way to control the spice level.
Cheeses: Cream cheese gives that lovely creamy texture, but you can swap it for Greek yogurt for a lighter version. For shredded cheese, sharp cheddar is my favorite for flavor, but Monterey Jack is another good option.
Sour cream & Mayonnaise: If you want a healthier alternative, consider using Greek yogurt in place of sour cream and mayonnaise. It adds creaminess with extra protein!
Bread: Serving with baguette is classic, but you could use pita chips, vegetable sticks, or even crackers if you want to try something different.
How Do I Cook the Shrimp to Perfection?
Sautéing shrimp is quick, but getting it just right can be tricky. Overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery, so keep an eye on the time!
- Heat your skillet to medium heat and add olive oil or butter.
- Once hot, toss in the shrimp coated in Cajun seasoning.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Remember, shrimp turns pink and opaque when done.
- Remove them from heat as soon as they’re cooked through to keep them tender.
How to Make Cajun Shrimp Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 1/2 pound (about 225g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for topping)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or butter, for sautéing shrimp
For Serving:
- Sliced baguette or toasted bread slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cajun Shrimp Dip takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 25 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a tasty appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is important so the dip can bake evenly and get that gooey, bubbly texture as it cooks!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
In a skillet, heat a little olive oil or butter over medium heat. Toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and then sauté the shrimp until they are just cooked through, which should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Be careful not to overcook them! Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the heat and set them aside.
3. Make the Creamy Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped green onions. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to taste for added flavor!
4. Fold in the Shrimp:
Gently fold in half of the cooked Cajun shrimp into the creamy mixture. This will give your dip a great shrimp flavor throughout.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, arrange the remaining shrimp on top for a lovely presentation.
6. Add Final Touches:
Sprinkle some extra shredded cheese and a dash of smoked paprika over the top. This will create a wonderful golden crust as it bakes.
7. Bake the Dip:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and lightly browned on top. The aroma will be mouthwatering!
8. Garnish:
Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and garnish with additional chopped green onions or chives for a fresh touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm Cajun Shrimp Dip with sliced baguette or toasted bread slices. It’s perfect for sharing, or just for you to enjoy alone! Dig in and savor the flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or quick-thawing them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
Can I Prepare This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the dip up to the baking stage, covering it tightly and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, give it a little extra time in the oven as it will be cold from the fridge.
What Are Some Alternatives to Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be used in place of cream cheese. It will still give you a creamy texture with added protein. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave it in short increments, stirring in between, until warm.
