Description
This Cheesy Rich and Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip is a luscious and flavorful appetizer perfect for parties or a cozy night in. Combining tender shrimp, sweet lump crab meat, creamy cheeses, and nutritious spinach, this dip is baked to bubbly perfection with a golden top. It’s ideal served warm with toasted bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 4 ounces cooked shrimp, chopped
- 4 ounces lump crab meat, drained
Dairy & Cream
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Produce & Seasonings
- 1 cup cooked spinach, squeezed dry
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature while you prepare the dip mixture.
- Mix Creamy Base: In a large bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan until you have a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Season the Mixture: Stir in minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes if using, and a pinch of salt and black pepper to create a balanced and flavorful base.
- Combine with Seafood and Spinach: Gently fold the cooked spinach, chopped shrimp, and drained crab meat into the creamy mixture, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated without breaking up the seafood.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the dip mixture into a baking dish or oven-safe skillet and smooth the surface evenly to promote even baking and an attractive finish.
- Bake the Dip: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and the top turns a desirable golden color.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the dip to cool slightly before serving to avoid burns. Serve warm with toasted bread, crackers, or sliced vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- You can use fresh, frozen, or canned crab and shrimp; just ensure they are cooked and properly drained before mixing.
- For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking.
- To keep the dip gluten-free, serve with gluten-free bread or crackers.
