Description
This Cheesy Rich and Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip is a luscious blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise mixed with a trio of cheeses, plump cooked shrimp, delicate crab meat, and fresh spinach. Infused with garlic, green onions, lemon juice, and smoked paprika, this warm, bubbly dip is perfect as an appetizer or party snack, served with crusty bread, crackers, or vegetable sticks.
Ingredients
Scale
Dairy & Sauces
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seafood
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup cooked crab meat, drained and flaked
Vegetables & Flavorings
- 1 1/2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dip.
- Mix Cream Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Cheeses: Incorporate the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and grated Parmesan cheeses into the cream mixture. Mix continuously until evenly blended.
- Add Seafood and Vegetables: Fold in the chopped cooked shrimp, drained and flaked crab meat, chopped fresh spinach, minced garlic, and finely chopped green onions. Mix gently to combine.
- Season the Dip: Stir in lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary for balanced flavor.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the mixture into a baking dish and spread it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the dip is bubbling.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the dip from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Serve warm with crusty bread, crackers, or vegetable sticks for dipping.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Use fresh seafood or properly cooked frozen shrimp and crab meat for best flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the seasoning step.
- This dip can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; bake just before serving to maintain freshness.
- For a low-fat version, substitute reduced-fat cream cheese and mayonnaise.
