Cajun Shrimp Dip is a flavorful, creamy appetizer that brings a bit of Louisiana flair to your table. Packed with succulent shrimp, bold Cajun spices, and gooey cheese, this dip is perfect for parties, game day, or any gathering where you want to wow your guests with something special. Serve it warm with crusty bread, crackers, or veggies for dipping, and watch it disappear!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 pound shrimp (peeled, deveined, and chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper (chopped)
- 1/2 cup onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 green onions (sliced, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped shrimp, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the chopped green bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
Step 3: Mix the Dip
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Mix until smooth.
- Add the cooked shrimp, sautéed vegetables, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
Step 4: Bake the Dip
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the shrimp mixture to an oven-safe baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with sliced green onions and fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve the Cajun Shrimp Dip warm with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh veggies for dipping.
Cooking Notes
- Shrimp: Fresh shrimp work best, but you can also use frozen shrimp—just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- Spiciness: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like it extra spicy.
- Creaminess: For a lighter version, use light cream cheese, light mayonnaise, and light sour cream.
Variations
Cheesy Cajun Crab and Shrimp Dip
- Add 1/2 cup of lump crab meat to the dip mixture for an extra seafood twist.
Bacon Cajun Shrimp Dip
- Stir in 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon for added smokiness and flavor.
Spicy Jalapeño Cajun Dip
- Add 1/4 cup of chopped jalapeños to the dip mixture for an extra kick of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake it in the oven until hot and bubbly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Shrimp?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp. Just chop them and add them to the cream cheese mixture without additional cooking.
Cajun Shrimp Dip is a creamy, spicy, and utterly delicious appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender shrimp, bold Cajun spices, and plenty of cheese, this dip is sure to impress your guests. Customize it to your taste with different add-ins, and enjoy it with your favorite dippers.
Happy cooking, and enjoy every flavorful bite of this Cajun-inspired dip!
