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Creamy Shrimp And Crab Spinach Dip

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This crowd pleasing seafood dip has saved countless parties with minimal effort. Warm, creamy cheese surrounds generous chunks of shrimp and crab, while fresh spinach adds color and a touch of elegance. The entire dish comes together in thirty minutes, perfect for last minute entertaining. Setting it out with an assortment of crusty bread, crackers, and fresh vegetables creates an impressive spread. People naturally gather around this warm, inviting dish until every last bite disappears. Simple ingredients transform into something that feels incredibly special.
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Updated on Tue, 14 Jan 2025 21:29:09 GMT
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A baked dish featuring shrimp and spinach in a creamy, cheesy sauce, served in a round white dish. Pin it
A baked dish featuring shrimp and spinach in a creamy, cheesy sauce, served in a round white dish. | tastygusto.com

This creamy seafood dip has become my secret weapon for parties and gatherings. The combination of sweet shrimp tender crab and fresh spinach wrapped in a cheesy creamy sauce always gets rave reviews. Its the kind of appetizer that disappears quickly with everyone asking for the recipe.

Why This Recipe Works

I love how this dip brings together luxurious seafood with comfort food vibes. The blend of cheeses perfectly complements the seafood while spinach adds freshness and color. Its fancy enough for special occasions but easy enough to whip up whenever you want something special.

Everything You Need

  • Shrimp: 1/2 pound, peeled and deveined; fresh or frozen, cleaned thoroughly.
  • Crab Meat: 1/2 pound; fresh, canned, or imitation, depending on preference.
  • Spinach: 2 cups, fresh and chopped; adds vibrant color and nutrients.
  • Cream Cheese: 1 cup, softened; creates the creamy dip base.
  • Sour Cream: 1/2 cup; adds tangy richness to the mix.
  • Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup; enhances the creamy texture.
  • Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated; adds a savory, nutty depth.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, shredded; ensures gooey, melty goodness.
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced; for a robust, savory kick.
  • Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon; brightens the seafood flavors.
  • Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) for heat.

Lets Make It Together

Cook the Seafood
Heat oil in a skillet, sauté shrimp with salt, pepper, and lemon juice for 3-4 minutes until pink. Chop into bite-sized pieces. Prepare crab by draining and cleaning as needed.
Cook the Spinach
In the same skillet, wilt the spinach for 2-3 minutes. Drain excess liquid to avoid a watery dip.
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, blend softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Fold in cooked shrimp, crab, spinach, Parmesan, and half the mozzarella cheese.
Bake the Dip
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the mixture in a baking dish, top with remaining mozzarella, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Serve
Let cool slightly and serve warm with dippers like bread, chips, or veggies.

Ways to Serve

We love dunking crusty baguette slices or tortilla chips into this dip. For lighter options fresh veggies work beautifully. Its so rich and satisfying it can even be the star of your meal with some salad on the side.

My Kitchen Secrets

Good quality seafood makes all the difference here. If using frozen just make sure its completely thawed and dried. Adjust the spice to your taste and remember you can prep everything ahead of time just save the baking for right before serving.

Make It Your Way

Want to keep it keto? Use your favorite keto-friendly dairy alternatives and serve with celery sticks. Looking for something lighter? Greek yogurt works great instead of sour cream. Try different cheese combinations to find your perfect blend.

A baked dish featuring shrimp and spinach in a creamy sauce, topped with golden melted cheese. Pin it
A baked dish featuring shrimp and spinach in a creamy sauce, topped with golden melted cheese. | tastygusto.com

Good For You Too

Besides being delicious this dip packs quite a nutritional punch. The seafood gives you protein and those good omega-3s while spinach adds important vitamins. Even the creamy base brings calcium to the table. Its definitely a treat but one with benefits.

Prep Ahead Tips

I often mix everything up the day before a party. Just keep it in the fridge then pop it in the oven when guests arrive. If its coming straight from the fridge give it an extra few minutes in the oven to get perfectly hot and bubbly.

Perfect Party Setup

Set out plenty of dipping options from crunchy bread to fresh vegetables. A crisp salad alongside makes it feel like a complete meal. Everything tastes better when its warm so time your baking accordingly.

Make It Beautiful

Fresh herbs sprinkled on top add such nice color. I love how the Parmesan creates a golden crust while baking. Serving it in a pretty dish takes it from tasty to stunning perfect for impressing guests.

A creamy seafood dish featuring shrimp layered on a bed of spinach and cheese, baked until golden brown. Pin it
A creamy seafood dish featuring shrimp layered on a bed of spinach and cheese, baked until golden brown. | tastygusto.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What can I serve with this dip?
This dip pairs well with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetables. Choose sturdy dippers that can hold the thick, creamy dip.
→ Can I make this spicier?
Yes, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste. The creamy base helps balance any added heat.
→ Can I make this ahead?
You can prepare the mixture ahead and refrigerate, then bake just before serving. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
→ How long will leftovers keep?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.
→ Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thawed frozen spinach works well. Just be sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid excess water in the dip.

Shrimp Crab Spinach Dip

A rich and cheesy warm dip loaded with shrimp, crab meat, and spinach. Perfect for sharing at parties or family gatherings.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes


Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 8 Servings (1 dish)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 200g (7 oz) shrimp, peeled, deveined and chopped.
02 150g (5 oz) crab meat, drained and flaked.
03 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped.
04 1 cup cream cheese, softened.
05 1/2 cup sour cream.
06 1/2 cup mayonnaise.
07 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
08 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
09 3 cloves garlic, minced.
10 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
11 1/2 teaspoon onion powder.
12 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika.
13 1 tablespoon olive oil.
14 Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 02

Heat olive oil in skillet. Cook spinach until wilted, 2-3 minutes. Set aside.

Step 03

Combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth. Stir in cheeses and seasonings.

Step 04

Mix in spinach, shrimp, and crab until well combined.

Step 05

Spread in baking dish. Bake 15-20 minutes until hot and bubbly with golden top.

Notes

  1. Can add hot sauce for extra spice.
  2. Serve with crackers or vegetables.
  3. Can be prepared ahead and baked later.

Tools You'll Need

  • Baking dish.
  • Skillet.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Shellfish.
  • Dairy.
  • Eggs (in mayonnaise).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 240
  • Total Fat: 18 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 6 g
  • Protein: 15 g