There’s something truly irresistible about a dip that combines rich seafood flavors with lush, creamy textures, and that is exactly what you get with this Cheesy and Creamy Shrimp & Crab Spinach Dip Recipe. Imagine tender shrimp and sweet lump crab meat enveloped in a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella, with bright notes from lemon juice and the subtle kick of Old Bay seasoning. It’s a must-have for any gathering or a cozy night in, delivering a perfect balance of taste, texture, and visual appeal that will keep your guests coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this dip plays a crucial role in creating that harmonious cheesy, creamy, and savory experience. From the fresh shrimp and lump crab meat bringing the star flavors, to the melty cheeses and spinach adding texture and color, these simple essentials come together beautifully.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Used to sauté garlic and shrimp, adding a subtle richness.
- Raw shrimp (1/2 pound, peeled, deveined, chopped): Provides tender seafood flavor and a nice bite.
- Lump crab meat (1/2 pound, shells removed): Offers sweet, delicate crab taste and luscious texture.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Adds an aromatic base note that brightens the dish.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Creates the smooth and creamy foundation.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Brings tanginess and lightens the heaviness of the richness.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Enhances creaminess and mouthfeel.
- Old Bay seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): This classic seasoning adds depth and a subtle spice blend perfect for seafood.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A mild heat enhancer balancing the flavors.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a gentle kick of heat if you enjoy a little spice.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup shredded): Melts beautifully to create that gooey, cheesy texture.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup grated): Adds a nutty, salty sharpness that elevates the dip.
- Cooked and drained spinach (1 cup, fresh or frozen): Provides vibrant color and a fresh, mild flavor.
- Lemon juice (juice of 1/2 lemon): Brightens the entire dish with a touch of acidity.
How to Make Cheesy and Creamy Shrimp & Crab Spinach Dip Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Shrimp and Garlic
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until you can really smell that fragrant aroma filling your kitchen. Add the chopped shrimp and cook them just until they turn pink, around 2 to 3 minutes — you want to avoid overcooking to keep them perfectly tender and juicy.
Step 2: Add Crab Meat and Set Aside
Next, stir in the lump crab meat to the skillet with the shrimp and let it cook for another minute, just enough to warm through without drying out. Once done, remove the mix from heat and set it aside for assembling the dip.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir in your Old Bay seasoning, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for that little zing. Fold in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, followed by the lemon juice that will add a lovely brightness to this rich mix.
Step 4: Incorporate Spinach and Seafood
Now, gently mix the cooked and drained spinach into the cheese mixture. Once incorporated, carefully fold in the shrimp and crab blend until everything is evenly distributed, ensuring each bite will have that delightful seafood surprise.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer this luscious mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the dip is bubbling hot and the top starts to turn a beautiful golden brown. Your kitchen will be filled with the most inviting aroma, tempting everyone nearby!
How to Serve Cheesy and Creamy Shrimp & Crab Spinach Dip Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a few more shreds of Parmesan right after baking adds a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. A squeeze of lemon zest over the top can also give a fresh, zesty note to balance the richness.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs beautifully with an array of options: think crisp tortilla chips, warm slices of crusty baguette, or crunchy vegetable sticks. For a fun twist, serve alongside buttery crackers or even toasted pita bread triangles for scooping up every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve the dip in a hollowed-out sourdough loaf or a small cast-iron skillet right from the oven for a rustic, cozy presentation. You can also portion it into individual ramekins for easy entertaining, making every guest feel special with their personal cheesy seafood treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, cover the dip tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. You’ll find it reheats wonderfully without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Freezing
Freezing this Cheesy and Creamy Shrimp & Crab Spinach Dip Recipe is possible, but fresh seafood dips tend to be best enjoyed fresh. If you do freeze, use a freezer-safe container and consume within one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
To bring the dip back to life, reheat it in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warm through. You can also microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring in between, to maintain that creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use canned crab instead of fresh lump crab?
Absolutely! Canned crab or even high-quality imitation crab can work well if fresh lump crab isn’t available. Just be sure to drain it well before adding to avoid excess moisture that might thin the dip.
What type of spinach is better to use fresh or frozen?
Both work beautifully in this recipe. If using fresh spinach, cook and squeeze out any excess water before adding. Frozen spinach should be thawed and thoroughly drained to prevent a watery dip.
Is there a way to make this dip spicier?
Yes! Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix. You could also serve it with spicy chips or add a drizzle of hot sauce on top after baking.
Can this dip be prepared ahead of time?
Definitely. You can mix everything up to the baking step and refrigerate the dip, covered, for up to 24 hours. Then just bake it when ready to serve for fresh, hot results.
What are some good alternatives to mayonnaise in this recipe?
If you prefer to avoid mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or extra sour cream can be used as substitutes to keep the dip creamy with a slight tang.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy and Creamy Shrimp & Crab Spinach Dip Recipe truly shines as a crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of elegance to any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a cozy night snack, this dip will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Give it a try—you really can’t go wrong with layers of cheesy goodness infused with fresh seafood and spinach!
Print
Cheesy and Creamy Shrimp & Crab Spinach Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
This Cheesy and Creamy Shrimp & Crab Spinach Dip is a decadent appetizer combining tender shrimp, lump crab meat, and rich cheeses blended with fresh spinach. Baked until bubbling and golden, it’s perfect for parties and gatherings, served warm with crackers, baguette slices, or tortilla chips.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 pound raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1/2 pound lump crab meat, shells removed
Dairy & Creams
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Produce & Seasonings
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup cooked and drained spinach (fresh or frozen)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to warm up for baking the dip later.
- Sauté Seafood: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Add the chopped shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes until they turn pink. Stir in the lump crab meat and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat.
- Mix Dip Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Add shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, lemon juice, and cooked spinach. Mix everything well until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Seafood and Dip: Fold the cooked shrimp and crab mixture into the creamy spinach cheese mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Bake the Dip: Transfer the entire mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm alongside crackers, sliced baguette, or tortilla chips for dipping.
Notes
- If fresh lump crab meat is not available, canned or imitation crab meat can be used as a substitute.
- For a smoother texture, finely chop the cooked shrimp or pulse them briefly in a food processor before folding into the dip mixture.
- This dip can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake, making it perfect for convenient entertaining.
