Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip

Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip

This Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip is a decadent appetizer, perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in. Loaded with tender shrimp, sweet crab meat, creamy cheeses, and fresh spinach, this dip is packed with flavor and guaranteed to impress your guests.


Yield

6–8 servings


Ingredients

For the Dip:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and diced
  • 1/2 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of salt (optional, adjust to taste)

For Serving:

  • Toasted baguette slices, crackers, or tortilla chips
  • Fresh vegetable sticks (e.g., carrots, celery, bell peppers)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Sauté the Spinach

  1. In the same skillet, add the chopped spinach and sauté for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Set aside.

3. Mix the Creamy Base

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  2. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese, garlic, Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, and black pepper.

4. Combine the Ingredients

  1. Fold the cooked shrimp, crab meat, sautéed spinach, and the creamy mixture together until evenly combined.

5. Bake the Dip

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and spread it evenly.
  3. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.

6. Serve and Enjoy

  1. Remove from the oven and let the dip cool for 5 minutes before serving.
  2. Serve warm with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetables.

Tips for Success

  • Fresh or Frozen Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
  • Crab Options: Fresh lump crab meat works best, but canned crab meat can also be used for convenience.
  • Cheese Variations: For extra flavor, try adding shredded cheddar or Gruyère to the mix.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble the dip ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.

This Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip is rich, cheesy, and loaded with seafood goodness—an irresistible appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more!

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