Shrimp & Crab Dip with Cheddar and Cajun Seasoning Recipe

Introduction

This Shrimp & Crab Dip is a creamy, cheesy seafood appetizer that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Combining tender shrimp and delicate crab meat with bold Cajun seasoning, it delivers a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb extra small shrimp (peeled, deveined, and tail off)
• 6 ounces canned lump crab meat
• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
• 1/4 cup red bell pepper (chopped fine)
• 1/4 cup green onion (sliced, plus extra for topping)
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp lemon zest

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly spray a square baking dish or a similarly sized casserole dish with nonstick spray and set aside.
2. Step 2: Chop the shrimp into small pieces. Use paper towels to squeeze out any excess moisture from both the shrimp and crab meat.
3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, red bell pepper, green onion, Cajun seasoning, and lemon zest until smooth and well combined.
4. Step 4: Add the chopped shrimp and crab meat to the mixture and stir until evenly incorporated.
5. Step 5: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top.
6. Step 6: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the dip is hot and bubbly.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven, garnish with extra green onions, and serve warm with pita chips, crusty bread, or your favorite dippers.

Tips & Variations

• For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mixture before baking.
• Use fresh lemon juice instead of zest if you prefer a tangier flavor.
• Substitute the cream cheese with Neufchâtel for a lighter version.
• Try serving with crisp vegetables like celery or cucumber slices for a refreshing contrast.

Storage

Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dip a day ahead, refrigerate it unbaked, and then bake it just before serving to keep it fresh and hot.

What can I use if I can’t find lump crab meat?

Imitation crab meat or finely chopped cooked crab can be used as a substitute, though the flavor may be slightly different.

Shrimp & Crab Dip with Cheddar and Cajun Seasoning Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 392 reviews

This Shrimp & Crab Dip is a creamy, cheesy seafood appetizer featuring tender shrimp and lump crab meat blended with cream cheese, sour cream, and a blend of cheeses and spices. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s perfect for serving warm with pita chips, crusty bread, or your favorite dippers.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Seafood

• 1 lb extra small shrimp (peeled, deveined, tail off)
• 6 ounces canned lump crab meat

Dairy

• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Colby jack cheese

Vegetables & Seasonings

• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, chopped fine
• 1/4 cup green onion, sliced (plus extra for topping)
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp lemon zest

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly spray a square or similarly sized casserole baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare Seafood: Chop the peeled and deveined shrimp into small pieces. Use paper towels to press and remove any excess moisture from both shrimp and canned lump crab meat to avoid watery dip.
3. Mix Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped red bell pepper, sliced green onions, Cajun seasoning, and lemon zest until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Incorporate Seafood: Add the chopped shrimp and crab meat into the bowl and gently mix until the seafood is evenly distributed throughout the creamy base.
5. Assemble for Baking: Pour the dip mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded Colby jack cheese over the top.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted, and the dip is piping hot and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with additional sliced green onions for freshness, and serve warm paired with pita chips, crusty bread, or your preferred dippers.

Notes

• To avoid a watery dip, make sure to thoroughly pat dry the shrimp and crab meat before mixing.
• If you prefer a spicier dip, increase the Cajun seasoning or add a dash of hot sauce.
• This dip can be made ahead and refrigerated; bake shortly before serving.
• For a smokier flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of Worcestershire sauce.

Keywords: shrimp dip, crab dip, seafood appetizer, baked dip, creamy seafood dip, Cajun seasoning, party appetizers