Cheesy and Creamy Shrimp & Crab Spinach Dip

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the richness of shrimp, crab, and cheese for a decadent flavor.
• Easy to prepare and ready in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile – pairs perfectly with tortilla chips, crackers, or toasted bread.
• Ideal for parties, game nights, or as a satisfying snack.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• 1/2 lb lump crab meat
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Tortilla chips, crackers, or toasted bread for serving

Directions

Cook the Shrimp:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until pink and fully cooked. Set aside to cool.

Prepare the Dip:

1. In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Add the Seafood and Spinach:

1. Fold in the cooked shrimp, crab meat, chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan until well combined.

Bake:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Transfer the dip mixture into an oven-safe baking dish and spread it evenly.
3. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve:

1. Let the dip cool slightly. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or toasted bread.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add Heat: Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for cheddar or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Boost: Add chopped artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers.
• Seafood Twist: Replace shrimp with scallops or add extra crab meat for a richer dip.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How do I ensure my shrimp doesn’t overcook?

Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen spinach thoroughly to remove excess moisture before adding it to the dip.

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dip mixture, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.

What substitutes can I use for crab meat?

Imitation crab or canned crab can work as budget-friendly alternatives.

Can I make this dip dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise, along with vegan cheeses.

Is this dip gluten-free?

Yes, the dip itself is gluten-free. Just pair it with gluten-free chips or bread.

Can I freeze this dip?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of cream cheese may change upon thawing.

What’s the best way to chop fresh spinach?

Stack spinach leaves, roll them tightly, and slice thinly. This technique ensures even chopping.

Can I cook the shrimp and prepare the dip in advance?

Yes, cook and refrigerate the shrimp up to 1 day ahead, and assemble the dip just before baking.

What can I serve this dip with besides chips?

Try pairing it with veggie sticks, baguette slices, or even as a filling for stuffed mushrooms.

Conclusion

This Cheesy and Creamy Shrimp & Crab Spinach Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and seafood-packed flavor, it’s sure to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings. Perfectly versatile and simple to prepare, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your appetizer rotation. Give it a try and savor the deliciousness!

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