Cheesy and Creamy Shrimp & Crab Spinach Dip a rich and indulgent seafood dip that combines tender shrimp, succulent crab, creamy cheeses, and fresh spinach. It’s the perfect centerpiece for parties, game-day gatherings, or a cozy appetizer on a quiet evening.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s packed with a delightful combination of shrimp, crab, and cheeses for an indulgent treat.
The fresh spinach adds a hint of earthiness that balances the rich flavors.
Easy to prepare with simple steps and readily available ingredients.
Versatile enough to pair with tortilla chips, crackers, or toasted bread.
A crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress at any occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1/2 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
1/2 lb lump crab meat
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup sour cream
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
Tortilla chips, crackers, or toasted bread for serving
Directions
Cook the Shrimp:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until pink and fully cooked. Set aside to cool.
Prepare the Dip:
In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Add the Seafood and Spinach:
Fold in the cooked shrimp, crab meat, chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan until well combined.
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Transfer the dip mixture into an oven-safe baking dish and spread it evenly.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve:
Let the dip cool slightly before serving.
Pair it with tortilla chips, crackers, or toasted bread for dipping.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
Make It Spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Cheese Swap: Use cheddar or Monterey Jack instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Herbaceous Touch: Mix in fresh parsley or dill for a fragrant twist.
Lighter Option: Use low-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise.
Vegetarian Version: Replace shrimp and crab with artichokes and extra spinach for a delicious veggie alternative.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions in 30-second increments.
Related Recipes:
- Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle
- CRAB STUFFED MUSHROOMS
- Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce
FAQs
How can I make this dip ahead of time?
You can prepare the dip up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking.
What’s the best way to reheat this dip?
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or until warm, or microwave small portions for convenience.
Can I use canned crab meat?
Yes, canned crab meat works well in this recipe. Just be sure to drain it thoroughly before adding.
What are good substitutes for Old Bay seasoning?
A combination of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and a touch of cayenne can mimic the flavor of Old Bay.
Conclusion
This Cheesy and Creamy Shrimp & Crab Spinach Dip is a decadent, flavor-packed appetizer that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its irresistible blend of seafood, cheeses, and spinach, it’s sure to be a hit at your table. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this dip delivers indulgence in every bite.
📖 Recipe:
PrintCheesy and Creamy Shrimp & Crab Spinach Dip
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
Indulge in this decadent Cheesy and Creamy Shrimp & Crab Spinach Dip, a rich appetizer bursting with seafood, fresh spinach, and creamy cheeses. Perfect for parties, game day, or any gathering, this easy-to-make dip will be a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
1/2 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
1/2 lb lump crab meat
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
Tortilla chips, crackers, or toasted bread for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Shrimp:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until pink and fully cooked. Set aside to cool. - Prepare the Dip:
In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. - Add the Seafood and Spinach:
Fold in the cooked shrimp, crab meat, chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan until well combined. - Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the dip mixture into an oven-safe baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. - Serve:
Let the dip cool slightly before serving. Pair it with tortilla chips, crackers, or toasted bread.
Notes
For a spicy twist, add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
Substitute mozzarella with cheddar or Monterey Jack for a new flavor.
Use low-fat dairy products for a lighter version.
Vegetarian variation: Replace shrimp and crab with artichokes and more spinach.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving