This Cajun shrimp dip is creamy, zesty, and packed with bold flavors! It’s got tender shrimp mixed with cheese and spices, making it a perfect treat for gatherings.
Whenever I make this dip, it disappears fast! Serve it with crunchy chips or fresh veggies, and watch everyone go back for seconds. It’s simply addictive! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh medium shrimp are the star here, but you can also use frozen shrimp. Just remember to thaw them before cooking to keep your dip smooth and creamy!
Cajun Seasoning: This seasoning gives the dip its flavor kick! If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, try a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper instead.
Cream Cheese: For a lighter option, you can use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt. It will change the flavor slightly, but still delicious!
Cheese: Mozzarella is tasty, but cheddar or pepper jack can add more flavor! Mix and match!
Green Onions: These add a nice crunch and freshness. If you’re out, chives or even finely diced red onions work well too!
How Do You Make Perfectly Creamy Dip?
The key to a creamy Cajun shrimp dip is mixing your ingredients well to achieve a smooth consistency. Start by softening the cream cheese enough so it blends easily. Here’s how to do it:
- Let the cream cheese sit out for about 30 minutes before you start, so it softens up.
- Mix the cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream until they are smooth before adding the shrimp and other ingredients.
- Don’t rush the baking – ensuring it bakes until bubbly gives you that delightful golden texture on top!
Take your time and stir everything well. This way, all the flavors mingle and create that perfect dip texture!
How to Make Cajun Shrimp Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (plus extra for sprinkling)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- Red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)
- French baguette or sliced baguette, toasted, for serving
- Hot chili oil or sauce, for optional dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cajun shrimp dip takes about 15 minutes for prep and 25 minutes to bake. So, in under an hour, you’ll have a cheesy, spicy dip ready to enjoy with your favorite dippers. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s hot and ready when you’re done preparing the dip.
2. Season the Shrimp:
In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with 2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning. Make sure the shrimp are well-coated to grab all that spicy flavor!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Then, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook them until they turn pink, which will take only about 2-3 minutes on each side. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Mix everything together until it’s creamy and evenly blended—this will be the heart of your dip!
5. Add the Shrimp:
Gently fold half of the cooked shrimp and most of the chopped green onions into your creamy cheese mixture. This adds a nice flavor and texture.
6. Assemble the Dip:
Transfer the cheesy shrimp mixture to a small baking dish or cast-iron skillet. Spread it out evenly, making sure it’s ready for baking!
7. Top with Shrimp and Seasoning:
Arrange the remaining shrimp on top of the dip. Add a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning and some red pepper flakes if you like extra spice.
8. Bake It:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and the top is golden.
9. Garnish:
Once you take it out, sprinkle the remaining chopped green onions over the top for a fresh touch!
10. Serve:
Enjoy your warm Cajun shrimp dip right away with toasted baguette slices. You can also serve it with a side of hot chili oil or sauce for an extra kick!
Dig in and enjoy this creamy, zesty dip perfect for parties or a cozy snack night! 🎉
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to serve, bake it as directed. You might need to add a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream Cheese?
If you want a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt or cottage cheese as a substitute for cream cheese. Just keep in mind that it may change the dip’s texture and flavor a bit.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature until heated through. Enjoy it warm for the best taste!
