Tired of the same old party snacks? Ready for a delicious and easy appetizer that will impress your guests? Then look no further! This baked shrimp dip recipe is the perfect answer. It's creamy, cheesy, brimming with succulent shrimp, and unbelievably simple to make. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion that's guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering, whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a fancy get-together. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or easy recipes for a healthy meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined (frozen shrimp works perfectly!)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for topping
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a small oven-safe dish (approximately 8x8 inches). This preparation step is crucial for easy cleanup and ensures your dip bakes evenly.
Mix the magic: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth. Then, stir in the Parmesan cheese, green onions, garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. This homemade cooking process is easy and ensures a perfectly balanced flavor.
Add the shrimp: Gently fold in the cooked shrimp. Don’t overmix – you want to preserve the shrimp's texture.
Bake to perfection: Pour the shrimp mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the top with shredded cheddar cheese and, if desired, breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a delightful crunchy topping. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
Serve and enjoy: Let the dip cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, baguette slices, or vegetables for dipping.
Tips for the Best Baked Shrimp Dip:
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp can become tough. If using frozen shrimp, ensure it's fully thawed and cooked through before adding it to the dip.
- Taste and adjust: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add more Old Bay for a spicier kick or more lemon juice for extra brightness.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the dip ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add the extra cheese and topping right before baking.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp Dip: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Bacon Shrimp Dip: Crumble cooked bacon and stir it into the mixture for added smoky flavor and texture.
- Creamy jalapeño shrimp dip: Add diced jalapeños for some heat and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fat: Approximately 18-22g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-7g
This easy baked shrimp dip is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a perfect example of how simple homemade cooking can result in truly exceptional food. Enjoy!