Creamy Coastal Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip Recipe

Nestled in culinary traditions, this creamy shrimp and crab spinach dip promises an unforgettable taste adventure.

Seafood enthusiasts will adore the luxurious blend of tender shellfish and vibrant greens.

Smooth textures mingle with rich, tangy flavors that dance across your palate.

Ingredients carefully selected elevate this appetizer from ordinary to extraordinary.

Mediterranean coastal influences shine through each delectable spoonful of goodness.

Professional chefs and home cooks alike appreciate how simple techniques can create magic in the kitchen.

Grab a crisp chip and immerse yourself in this decadent, irresistible starter that screams celebration.

Ingredients Checklist for Seafood Spinach Dip

• Shrimp: Fresh seafood that adds delightful texture and flavor to the dip.
• Crab Meat: Sweet and delicate seafood that enhances the overall richness of the recipe.

• Cream Cheese: Smooth base that provides creamy consistency and rich flavor.
• Mayonnaise, Sour Cream: Ingredients that contribute to the dip's velvety texture and tangy taste.
• Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Cheeses that melt beautifully and add depth to the dip.

• Spinach: Nutritious green that adds color and earthy flavor to the dip.
• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that provides a robust and warm taste.
• Green Onions: Fresh herb that offers a mild, sharp accent to the mixture.

• Paprika, Onion Powder, Salt, Black Pepper: Spices that balance and elevate the overall flavor profile.
• Lemon Juice: Bright citrus element that adds a fresh, zesty touch.
• Butter: Fat that helps cook the shrimp and adds richness.

• Parsley: Fresh herb used to add a pop of color and fresh finish.

Stepwise Guide to Making Creamy Shrimp Crab Dip

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 375F (190C) and give a baking dish a quick spray of cooking oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sizzle the Seafood

Toss butter into a simmering pan over medium heat.

Drop in the chopped shrimp and let them dance around until they transform into a beautiful pink color, about 2-3 minutes.

Set these little ocean gems aside.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Base

• Cream cheese
• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese

Blend until the mixture looks silky smooth and irresistible.

Step 4: Mix in the Flavor Boosters

• Chopped spinach
• Cooked shrimp
• Crab meat
• Minced garlic
• Paprika
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Lemon juice
• Chopped green onions

Stir everything until it’s perfectly combined.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Spread the mixture evenly into the waiting baking dish, making sure it’s smooth and inviting.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and let it bubble and transform for 20-25 minutes.

You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the edges are bubbling with excitement.

Step 7: Final Touches

Pull the dip out and let it rest for a few minutes.

If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for extra pizzazz.

Step 8: Dive In

Serve this creamy delight warm alongside crispy bread, crunchy crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks.

Get ready for a flavor explosion!

Tips for a Smooth, Creamy Seafood Dip

• Choose high-quality, fresh shrimp and crab meat to ensure the best flavor and texture in your dip.
• Squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach to prevent a watery dip and maintain a creamy consistency.
• Adjust the amount of mozzarella and Parmesan to balance richness and prevent the dip from becoming too heavy.
• Assemble the dip in advance and refrigerate, then bake just before serving for convenience and maximum flavor development.
• Experiment with additional herbs like dill or chives to enhance the overall taste profile of the seafood dip.

Dip Variations With Extra Seafood or Veggies

• Dairy-Free Seafood Sensation: Replace cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream with cashew cream, vegan mayo, and coconut yogurt for a lactose-free alternative.
• Low-Carb Protein Power: Swap crackers and bread with crispy cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, or roasted zucchini rounds for a lighter serving option.
• Mediterranean Seafood Fusion: Add crumbled feta cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of dried oregano to introduce Mediterranean flavors to the classic recipe.
• Spicy Cajun Seafood Kick: Incorporate Cajun seasoning, diced jalapeños, and a dash of hot sauce to transform the dip into a zesty, spice-packed appetizer.

Serving Ideas for Hot or Cold Spinach Dip

• Seafood Party Platter: Arrange the dip in the center of a large wooden board surrounded by an array of crispy toasted baguette slices, crunchy pita chips, and colorful fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers.
• Game Night Dipping Station: Set up small individual ramekins filled with the dip, providing guests with an assortment of dippable items such as tortilla chips, herbed crackers, and warm soft pretzels for a fun interactive experience.
• Elegant Appetizer Presentation: Serve the dip in a beautiful ceramic dish garnished with fresh green onion sprigs, a light dusting of smoked paprika, and lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty touch that elevates the visual appeal.

Best Ways to Store Seafood Spinach Dip

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or lid to prevent moisture loss and keep flavors intact.
• Transfer dip to a freezer-safe container, seal completely, and freeze for maximum 2 months. Place a layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent freezer burn.
• Scoop desired portion into microwave-safe dish. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even warming. Stop when dip reaches steaming temperature.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Place dip in ceramic or glass baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through for consistent temperature.

FAQs

• What type of seafood is used in this dip?

This dip combines succulent shrimp and delicate crab meat, creating a rich and flavorful seafood experience that elevates the traditional spinach dip.

• Is this dip considered a healthy appetizer?

While delicious, this dip is creamy and rich due to cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

• Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dip in advance and refrigerate it. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the refrigerator.

Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip Delicious Party Appetizer Features

• Whip Up a Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: This seafood dip brings restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen with minimal effort.
• Packed with Protein Power: Shrimp and crab combine for a protein-rich starter that satisfies hunger and delivers incredible flavor in every bite.
• Perfect Party Companion: Ideal for game days, potlucks, and social gatherings where guests crave something special yet simple to prepare.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy as a dip with crackers, spread on toasted bread, or pair with fresh vegetable sticks for a lighter approach.

Creamy Shrimp And Crab Spinach Dip Recipe

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4.6 from 10 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Sumptuous shrimp and crab spinach dip promises a luxurious seafood experience that elevates any gathering. Guests will savor rich, velvety flavors melding together in this irresistible coastal-inspired appetizer you cannot resist.

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Ingredients

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Seafood:

• 0.5 pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• 0.5 pound lump crab meat

Cheeses and Dairy:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 0.5 cup mayonnaise
• 0.5 cup sour cream
• 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 0.25 cup grated parmesan cheese

Herbs, Spices, and Additional Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 0.25 teaspoon paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 0.25 cup green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously coat a baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté chopped shrimp until they transform into a vibrant pink color and become translucent, approximately 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Using an electric mixer or whisk, thoroughly blend cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan until achieving a silky, uniform consistency.
4. Incorporate the chopped spinach, cooked shrimp, delicate crab meat, minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, fresh lemon juice, and green onions into the creamy mixture. Gently fold ingredients to ensure even distribution.
5. Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a smooth surface.
6. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, monitoring until the edges turn golden brown and the center becomes bubbly and heated through.
7. Remove from oven and allow the dip to rest for 3-5 minutes, which helps it set and prevents burning. Optional: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for added color and flavor.
8. Serve immediately alongside toasted bread, crisp crackers, or fresh vegetable crudités for dipping.

Notes

• Customize seafood selection by swapping shrimp or crab with imitation crab, lobster, or additional shellfish for variety and budget-friendly options.
• Use fresh spinach instead of frozen by finely chopping and briefly sautéing to remove excess moisture, ensuring a creamy and not watery texture.
• Reduce calorie content by substituting full-fat cream cheese with low-fat or Greek yogurt, maintaining rich flavor while lightening the dish.
• Make gluten-free by serving with gluten-free crackers or vegetable sticks, and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for sensitive diets.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 154
• Sugar: 0.4 g
• Sodium: 370 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 105 mg