Shrimp Dip

Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer? This Shrimp Dip is creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor! Made with a rich combination of cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon zest, and succulent shrimp, this dip is perfect for game day, parties, or casual gatherings. Serve with crackers, celery sticks, or veggies for a tasty and satisfying snack. Whether you’re hosting a celebration or need a quick appetizer, this shrimp dip will be a hit at any occasion. Quick to prepare and full of flavor, it’s the perfect choice for seafood lovers.

This creamy, flavorful Shrimp Dip is the perfect appetizer for any occasion. Made with a rich combination of cream cheese, mayonnaise, shrimp, and tangy lemon zest, it’s a deliciously unique dip that will have your guests coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family gathering, or need a quick snack, this shrimp dip is a must-try!

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Ingredients

• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup chopped green onions (plus more for garnish, if desired)
• 1 (8-ounce) can water chestnuts (drained and chopped)
• ½ pound cooked shrimp (deveined, peeled, chopped, and patted dry)
• ¼ teaspoon lemon zest
• Squeeze of lemon juice
• Tabasco or hot sauce (to taste, optional)
• Crackers (for serving, optional)
• Celery sticks (for serving, optional)

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Instructions

1. Mix Cream Cheese and Mayonnaise: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Stir until fully combined. If mixing with a spatula or spoon is difficult, use a hand mixer for easier blending.
2. Add Flavor and Texture: Once the cream cheese and mayo are combined, add the chopped green onions, water chestnuts, cooked shrimp, lemon zest, lemon juice, and Tabasco (if using). Stir until all ingredients are well-mixed.
3. Chill: Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld and the dip to chill properly.
4. Serve: Serve the shrimp dip chilled or at room temperature with crackers and celery sticks for dipping. Garnish with extra chopped green onions if desired.

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Tips

• Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor, use fresh or cooked shrimp instead of pre-cooked frozen shrimp.
• Add More Heat: If you enjoy spicy food, increase the amount of Tabasco or hot sauce to your preference.
• Soften Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth dip texture.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream cheese and mayonnaise with dairy-free alternatives to make the dip suitable for a dairy-free diet.
• Herb Variations: Add other fresh herbs like parsley or dill to enhance the flavor of the dip.
• Different Seafood: Try using canned crab or lobster instead of shrimp for a unique twist.

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FAQs

1. How long should I chill the shrimp dip?
Chill the dip for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to blend. For best results, refrigerate it overnight.

2. Can I make this shrimp dip ahead of time?
Yes! This dip can be made up to 24 hours in advance and kept in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

3. Can I freeze shrimp dip?
Shrimp dip is not ideal for freezing because the texture of the cream cheese and mayonnaise may change once thawed.

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Serving Suggestions

• With Crackers: Serve this shrimp dip with crispy crackers for a simple and delicious appetizer.
• Veggies: Pair with celery sticks, cucumber slices, or carrot sticks for a healthy and crunchy option.
• As a Sandwich Spread: Spread this dip onto sandwich bread or toast for a savory sandwich option.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, this shrimp dip comes together in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving it at a party or for a family gathering, this dip is always a hit.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences, from the amount of lemon zest to the level of heat.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of cream cheese, shrimp, and lemon gives this dip a rich, savory flavor that’s irresistible.

Enjoy this Shrimp Dip at your next get-together, and watch it become the star of the appetizer table!