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Shrimp & Crab Dip Recipe

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4.2 from 2 reviews

This Shrimp & Crab Dip is a warm, cheesy, and savory appetizer that combines tender snow crab meat and succulent shrimp with a creamy blend of cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, seasoned with Old Bay and lemon zest. Baked until bubbling and golden, this dip is perfect for serving with crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetables at gatherings or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Seafood

  • 8 ounces cooked fresh snow crab meat, chopped into ½" pieces
  • 8 ounces cooked medium shrimp, tails removed, chopped into ¼" pieces

Dairy

  • 8 ounces regular cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup good quality mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup regular sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded medium cheddar cheese
  • ¾ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided

Produce & Seasonings

  • ¼ cup chopped green onion
  • 4 large cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Sliced green onion and chopped Roma tomato (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Seafood: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Using paper towels, press the crab and shrimp multiple times to remove excess moisture, which helps prevent the dip from becoming watery.
  2. Mix Creamy Base: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Stir them together until you achieve a smooth, consistent mixture.
  3. Add Cheeses and Seasonings: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, ½ cup of the Parmesan cheese, chopped green onion, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon zest, mixing thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.
  4. Incorporate Seafood: Gently fold the chopped crab meat and shrimp into the creamy mixture, ensuring even coverage without breaking up the seafood pieces.
  5. Transfer and Top: Spoon the mixture into a baking dish of your choice. Evenly sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese over the top to create a golden crust when baked.
  6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the dip is bubbling and the cheese on top has browned slightly.
  7. Rest and Garnish: Remove the dip from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Before serving, garnish with sliced green onions and chopped Roma tomatoes for a fresh touch. Serve warm with crackers, crostini, tortilla chips, celery sticks, or carrots.

Notes

  • Pressing the seafood dry is key to avoid a watery dip.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with Old Bay seasoning.
  • Feel free to substitute medium cheddar with sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor.
  • This dip can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Find it online: https://dishcooks.com/shrimp-and-crab-dip-recipe/