This Spicy Louisiana Shrimp Dip is a creamy, zesty treat packed with tender shrimp and flavorful spices. It’s perfect for snacking at parties or cozy gatherings.
Honestly, every time I make this dip, it disappears faster than I can say “Louisiana!” Trust me, serve it with chips, and you’ll see happy faces all around. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh medium shrimp are a must for this dip. If you’re in a pinch, frozen shrimp will work as long as you thaw and drain them well. You can also use crab or scallops for a twist!
Cajun Seasoning: This adds loads of flavor! If you don’t have any, a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper can be a quick substitute. Just adjust to your taste!
Cheese: Cream cheese is key for creaminess. For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt. Monterey Jack and cheddar give that great cheesy ooze, but feel free to mix in pepper jack for extra heat.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess, but if you’re looking for a healthy option, try Greek yogurt instead. It gives a similar texture and a nice tang without all the calories.
Hot Sauce: If you’re not a fan of heat, adjust the amount or substitute with something milder, like a sweet chili sauce for a different flavor!
How Do I Cook the Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp right can be tricky! You want them juicy and tender, not rubbery. Here’s how to perfect them:
- Start with a preheated skillet to get a nice sear.
- Cook shrimp for just 1-2 minutes on each side. They turn pink and opaque when done.
- Remove them from the heat as soon as they’re cooked; no need to overdo it!
- If you like, chop half of them for easier dipping and leave the rest whole for decoration.
Getting this right will make your dip even better, trust me!
What’s the Best Way to Bake the Dip?
Don’t skip the oven; baking brings everything together beautifully! Here’s a tip:
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 375°F (190°C) before sliding in the dip.
- Look for a bubbly surface and light golden color on top; this means it’s ready!
- Let it cool for just a minute before serving to avoid burns when dipping.
This step ensures your dip is creamy throughout with a lovely crust on top!
Spicy Louisiana Shrimp Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (divided)
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Louisiana hot sauce)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Toasted bread rounds or crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for baking, totaling around 30-35 minutes. You’ll spend a little time cooking the shrimp and mixing up the dip before baking it to perfection. Easy and oh-so-satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for the dip as soon as you’re done mixing.
2. Season the Shrimp:
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with half of the Cajun seasoning and olive oil, ensuring they’re well coated. This will give your shrimp loads of flavor!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for about 1-2 minutes on each side. They should look pink and slightly charred. Once cooked, remove them from the heat and set them aside.
4. Mix the Dip Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, parsley, hot sauce, smoked paprika, the remaining Cajun seasoning, and half of the sliced green onions. Mix everything together until it’s creamy and smooth.
5. Combine with Shrimp:
Chop up half of the cooked shrimp if you prefer smaller pieces for dipping, then fold them into the creamy mixture. This adds extra shrimp goodness throughout!
6. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Transfer the dip mixture to an oven-safe dish or a cast-iron skillet. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
7. Bake the Dip:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You want the dip to be hot, bubbly, and beautifully golden on top.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and garnish with the remaining shrimp, extra green onions, and if you like, some sliced red chili or bell pepper for a pop of color!
9. Dig In!
Serve the dip right away with toasted bread rounds or crackers for a delightful dipping experience. Enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite!
This rich, creamy dip delivers a spicy kick reminiscent of classic Louisiana flavors. With the combination of Cajun seasoning, hot sauce, and fresh shrimp, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Happy dipping! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Dip?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp in the fridge overnight or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid excess moisture in the dip.
How Can I Make This Dip Spicier?
If you love extra heat, feel free to increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or hot sauce to suit your taste. You can also add finely chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an additional kick!
Can I Prepare This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can mix the dip ingredients and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Simply cover it tightly and bake it when you’re ready to serve. It may take a few extra minutes in the oven if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Add a splash of cream or a bit of cheese if it seems too thick!
