Dive into the bold and zesty flavors of the South with our Spicy Louisiana Shrimp Dip! This crowd-pleasing appetizer is not only a feast for the eyes but also a tantalizing explosion of taste that will have your guests begging for the recipe. With creamy cheese, succulent shrimp, and a kick of Cajun spice, this dip is perfect for game days, parties, or just a cozy night in. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your dip bakes evenly and becomes bubbly and golden on top.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Use a hand mixer or a spatula to blend them together until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the cream cheese mixture, stirring until well incorporated. The cheddar will add a rich flavor and creamy texture to the dip.
- Next, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the mixture. If your shrimp are large, you may want to chop them into smaller pieces to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the dip.
- Incorporate the hot sauce, Cajun seasoning, chopped green onions, and lemon juice into the mixture. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your preferred spice level.
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. You can use an 8-inch square dish or a similar-sized oven-safe dish.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden on top. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.
- Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help prevent burns when serving.
- Serve the Spicy Louisiana Shrimp Dip warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced baguette. Garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the dip a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
- Shrimp Selection: For the best results, use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in your dip.
- Adjust the Heat: If you're sensitive to spice, start with less hot sauce and Cajun seasoning, then taste and adjust as needed. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! A blend of pepper jack and mozzarella can add a delightful twist to the flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestions: This dip pairs perfectly with tortilla chips, but don’t overlook fresh veggies, crackers, or even toasted baguette slices for a deliciously crunchy contrast.
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of extra chopped green onions or a dash of paprika on top before serving can elevate the presentation and add a pop of color.
- Keep it Warm: If you’re serving at a party, consider keeping the dip warm in a slow cooker. This way, guests can enjoy it at the perfect temperature throughout the event.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 220mg
