Description
This creamy and flavorful Shrimp Crab Dip is a perfect appetizer for gatherings. Combining succulent shrimp, tender crab meat, and a blend of cheeses with a touch of Cajun seasoning and lemon zest, this dip is baked to bubbly perfection and topped with fresh green onions for a delightful finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 1 lb extra small shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 oz canned lump crab meat
Dairy
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Colby jack cheese
Vegetables & Seasoning
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, chopped fine
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced, plus extra for topping
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the dip.
- Mix Cream Cheese Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, forming the base of your dip.
- Add Seafood and Vegetables: Gently fold in the peeled and deveined shrimp, lump crab meat, finely chopped red bell pepper, and sliced green onions to the creamy base, ensuring even distribution without breaking up the seafood.
- Season the Mixture: Stir in the Cajun seasoning and lemon zest to add a zesty and mildly spicy flavor that complements the seafood perfectly.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Add the shredded cheddar and Colby jack cheeses, mixing gently to combine all ingredients evenly while maintaining the cheese texture.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the combined mixture to a suitable baking dish. Top with extra sliced green onions for an attractive finish and fresh flavor.
- Bake the Dip: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the dip is bubbly and has a golden, slightly crisp top.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the dip to cool slightly after baking, letting it set for easier serving. Serve warm with crackers, bread, or vegetable sticks.
Notes
- Use canned lump crab meat for convenience, but fresh crab can be substituted if available.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning according to your preferred spice level.
- Serve with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
- This dip can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; add baking time if baking from cold.
- For a healthier version, use low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat cheeses.
