Welcome to your new go-to recipe for an unforgettable party appetizer: the classic Shrimp Dip! This creamy, flavorful delight is not just a dish; it’s a culinary blast from the past, guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this shrimp dip is incredibly quick to whip up, making it perfect for last-minute entertaining. Even better, you can prepare it ahead of time, allowing flavors to meld beautifully and saving you precious time when hosting.
A Timeless Classic: Mom’s Favorite Shrimp Dip Recipe
There’s something truly special about recipes passed down through generations, and this Shrimp Dip is no exception. As I’ve shared with you before, a few of my mother-in-law’s most cherished recipes are making their way into our culinary collection, and this dip holds a prominent place among them. Originating from her kitchen in the 1970s, it quickly became legendary. It was the appetizer everyone requested for potlucks, family gatherings, and casual get-togethers – a true testament to its irresistible charm.
My mother-in-law, Chris, had a knack for creating dishes that were both comforting and effortlessly delicious, and this shrimp dip perfectly embodies that spirit. It’s the kind of recipe that evokes nostalgia, reminding us of simpler times and joyous occasions. What makes it so popular? Perhaps it’s the perfect balance of creamy texture and savory seafood flavor, or maybe it’s simply the ease with which it disappears from the serving bowl. Whatever the magic, prepare yourself: once you start dipping, it’s hard to stop!
This recipe isn’t just about ingredients; it’s about tradition, convenience, and creating memorable moments around good food. It’s a versatile dish that has graced countless tables over the decades, proving its enduring appeal. Whether you’re a seasoned host or new to entertaining, this classic shrimp dip offers a taste of home and a promise of delightful simplicity.
This is a great recipe! This is a keeper. Wow, wow, and wow! Thank you for sharing!
– Mark
Frequently Asked Questions About Shrimp Dip
When it comes to this classic recipe, I believe its enduring appeal lies in its simplicity and speed. My mother-in-law, the originator of this beloved dip, exclusively used canned shrimp and salmon in her recipes. Canned shrimp are wonderfully convenient; they are already cooked, peeled, deveined, and typically very small, eliminating any need for additional cooking or preparation. You simply drain, chop, and add them to the mix. This makes the dip an ideal choice for a last-minute appetizer, as it requires virtually no planning ahead. Personally, I find canned shrimp much easier to incorporate into this dip, as their texture and size blend seamlessly with the creamy base. While I haven’t personally experimented with fresh shrimp for this particular recipe, if you decide to try it, I would suggest lightly cooking and chilling your fresh shrimp, then chopping them finely before adding. Please do let me know how it turns out for you!
Absolutely, making this shrimp dip ahead of time is not only possible but often recommended! Preparing it the night before or several hours in advance allows all the flavors to fully meld and deepen, resulting in an even more delicious dip. Simply mix all the ingredients, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. This dip holds up beautifully for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before serving, and perhaps garnish with fresh green onions right before your guests arrive for that vibrant touch.
The beauty of this creamy Shrimp Dip is its versatility when it comes to serving. While rippled potato chips are my absolute favorite due to their satisfying crunch and ability to scoop up plenty of dip, the options are truly endless! Consider serving it with classic corn chips, buttery Ritz crackers, or a variety of other crackers like wheat thins or water crackers. For a more substantial option, thinly sliced baguette rounds, toasted bread points, or even mini pitas work wonderfully. If you’re looking for lighter, healthier alternatives, fresh vegetable sticks such as celery, carrots, bell pepper strips, or cucumber slices offer a refreshing contrast. Experiment to find your favorite combination!
Certainly! If you enjoy a dip with a bit more zest, it’s easy to customize this recipe with a touch of heat. The chili sauce already provides a very subtle kick, but you can definitely enhance it. I’d highly recommend adding about 1 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning for a classic seafood spice profile that perfectly complements the shrimp. For an extra punch, a pinch or two of crushed red pepper flakes stirred into the mixture will give it a noticeable warmth. You could also experiment with a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or a small amount of cayenne pepper. Start with a little, taste, and adjust to your preferred level of spice.
Generally, there’s no strict need to rinse canned tiny shrimp before using them in this recipe. Canned shrimp are typically packed in brine or water, and a quick drain is usually sufficient. Rinsing them might dilute some of their inherent flavor, which is a key component of the dip. However, if you prefer to reduce the sodium content or simply prefer the taste of rinsed shrimp, you can certainly do so. Just make sure to drain and pat them very dry before chopping to prevent excess moisture from making your dip watery.
Proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious Shrimp Dip for longer. Any leftover dip should be transferred to an airtight container immediately after your gathering. This will help maintain its freshness, flavor, and creamy texture. Store the sealed container in the refrigerator, and it will remain good for up to 3 days. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, the flavors often deepen overnight, making it a tasty treat even on the second or third day!
Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Shrimp Dip:
Crafting this irresistible Shrimp Dip relies on a selection of straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in its classic flavor profile. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:
- Cream Cheese: The foundation of our dip’s luxurious creaminess. For the smoothest consistency and easiest blending, it’s absolutely essential to start with cream cheese softened to room temperature. This prevents lumps and ensures a silky-smooth base for your dip.
- Mayonnaise: While some variations might call for sour cream, I find that good quality mayonnaise provides the perfect richness and balances the flavors without introducing an overly tangy note. It contributes to the dip’s characteristic creamy texture and savory depth.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: This is a non-negotiable ingredient! The bright, zesty flavor of fresh-squeezed lemon juice cuts through the richness of the cream cheese and mayonnaise, elevating the entire dip. Bottled lemon juice simply won’t do it justice; its artificial taste can overwhelm the delicate flavors and give the dip an unpleasant chemical undertone. Always opt for fresh!
- Chili Sauce: Don’t confuse this with hot sauce! Chili sauce, typically found near the ketchup and other condiments in your grocery store, provides a unique sweet and savory tang with just a hint of mild spice. It’s a key ingredient that gives this dip its signature retro flavor. Look for brands like Heinz Chili Sauce for the authentic taste.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A splash of Worcestershire sauce adds a subtle layer of umami and complexity, enhancing the savory notes of the shrimp and other ingredients without being overpowering. It’s a secret weapon for depth of flavor.
- Dried Minced Onion: This ingredient is crucial for adding a gentle, aromatic onion flavor that blends seamlessly into the dip. While fresh onion could be used, its strong, pungent taste might easily overwhelm the delicate shrimp. Dried minced onion rehydrates beautifully in the creamy base, offering a milder, more consistent flavor that doesn’t dominate the other components.
- Canned Tiny Shrimp: The star of the show! Canned tiny shrimp are ideal for this recipe due to their convenience and tender texture. They are pre-cooked, peeled, and small, requiring only a quick chop before adding to the dip. This saves significant preparation time compared to fresh shrimp, making it a truly quick and easy appetizer. Any brand of canned tiny shrimp will work; simply ensure you drain them well. If your local store only carries 4-ounce cans, feel free to use two of those to achieve the desired shrimp quantity. (For reference, I’ve linked a brand like Roland Picnic Peeled Shrimp, though any suitable canned shrimp will be perfect.)
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Optional): This is a delightful addition I started incorporating into the dip, and it quickly became a family favorite. The mozzarella adds another layer of mild creaminess and a subtle cheesy pull. If you’re a cheese lover, I highly recommend it, but if you prefer a simpler, more traditional shrimp dip, feel free to omit it. The recipe is still fantastic without it!
- Sliced Green Onions (for garnish, optional): These are primarily for garnish, adding a beautiful pop of vibrant green and a very light, fresh onion flavor. They enhance the visual appeal of the dip, making it look as good as it tastes. Since you’re already using dried minced onion in the dip itself, these are purely optional but highly recommended for presentation.
Effortless Preparation: How to Make This Delicious Shrimp Dip
Making this classic Shrimp Dip is incredibly simple, requiring minimal effort and no cooking. Follow these easy steps to create a show-stopping appetizer that will impress everyone:
Step 1: Create the Creamy Base
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Using an electric hand mixer, beat these two ingredients together until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lumps of cream cheese for a truly luscious dip. This step is crucial for the dip’s signature texture.
Step 2: Incorporate the Flavor Enhancers
To the cream cheese and mayonnaise base, add the fresh lemon juice, chili sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and dried minced onion. Continue to beat the mixture with your electric mixer until all these ingredients are thoroughly combined and the dip is once again smooth. The aromas will already start to develop, hinting at the deliciousness to come.
Step 3: Add the Shrimp and Optional Cheese
First, drain your canned tiny shrimp thoroughly and then chop them into smaller, bite-sized chunks. This ensures a pleasant texture in every scoop. Gently fold the chopped shrimp and the shredded mozzarella cheese (if using) into the cream cheese mixture. Stir by hand until evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix; you want the shrimp to maintain some of its texture.
Step 4: Chill and Garnish
Once assembled, cover the bowl and refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer, to allow the flavors to meld and the dip to firm up slightly. Just before serving, garnish with freshly sliced green onions for a pop of color and a hint of fresh onion flavor. Serve chilled with your favorite dippers, such as crispy potato chips, an assortment of crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks. Enjoy!
Craving More Seafood or Party Appetizer Recipes?
If you’ve enjoyed this delightful Shrimp Dip, you’re in for a treat! We have a treasure trove of other crowd-pleasing recipes perfect for entertaining or simply satisfying your seafood cravings. Explore these delicious options:
- Smoked Salmon Dip
- Million Dollar Dip
- Creamy Taco Dip
- Cheddar Ranch Dip
- Crab Dip
- Seafood Dip
- Poolside Dip
- Veggie Dip
- Southern Fried Shrimp
- Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp
- Shrimp Tacos
- Fried Panko Shrimp
- Buttery Creole Shrimp
- Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
- Smoked Salmon Puff Pastry Bites
Originally published: March 2012
Updated photos and republished: February 2025
Shrimp Dip
Average rating: 4.78 stars based on 89 reviews.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 10
Author: Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 3 Tablespoons chili sauce
- ¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 Tablespoon dried minced onion
- 7 ounce can tiny shrimp, well-drained and chopped
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- sliced green onions (for topping, optional)
Instructions
In a medium bowl, beat together the 8 ounce block cream cheese (softened) and 1/2 cup mayonnaise until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps.
Add 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, 3 Tablespoons chili sauce, 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1 Tablespoon dried minced onion to the cream cheese mixture. Continue to beat until all ingredients are well combined and the dip is smooth.
Chop the drained 7 ounce can of tiny shrimp into smaller chunks. Gently stir the chopped shrimp and 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (if using) into the cream cheese mixture until evenly incorporated.
Garnish the dip with sliced green onions just before serving, if desired.
Keep the Shrimp Dip chilled in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Serve with potato chips, crackers, or your favorite dippers.
Notes
- Please refer to the “Frequently Asked Questions” and detailed ingredient list above for additional tips on substitutions, common questions, and best practices for this recipe.
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Nutrition
Calories: 92 kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 5g | Sodium: 355mg | Sugar: 2g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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