The Ultimate Creamy Cold Shrimp Dip Recipe: Easy & Flavorful Party Appetizer
This classic **cold shrimp dip recipe** is an absolute game-changer, offering a delightful combination of creamy texture and rich, vibrant flavors. Crafted with a luscious base of cream cheese and mayonnaise, it features succulent pieces of juicy shrimp, bright lemon juice, and a subtle yet exciting kick from chili garlic sauce. Best of all, this incredibly satisfying party appetizer comes together in just 10 minutes of prep time, making it your go-to solution for effortless entertaining.
Why This Easy Shrimp Dip Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser
There’s a reason why **shrimp dip** has long been a revered staple at parties and gatherings, right alongside its equally popular cousin, shrimp cocktail. This particular recipe takes that classic appeal and elevates it, delivering a dip that is not only exquisitely creamy and smooth but also boasts a delightful tang and intriguing pops of texture from the finely chopped shrimp and fresh herbs.
It’s the quintessential easy appetizer, perfect for snacking at any event, from casual game nights to elegant holiday parties. What makes this recipe truly stand out is its perfect balance of flavors – the rich dairy base is beautifully cut by the zesty lemon, while Old Bay seasoning provides that signature seafood depth. The chili garlic sauce adds just enough warmth to keep things interesting without overwhelming the delicate shrimp. Plus, its versatility means you can easily customize it to your personal preference, adding more crunch or a greater kick of heat as desired. We’ve included several variations below to inspire you, ensuring this **creamy cold shrimp dip** will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Key Ingredients for the Best Cold Shrimp Dip
Crafting this flavorful **seafood dip** requires a few simple yet impactful ingredients. For the precise measurements, detailed instructions, and a printable version, please refer to the recipe card located at the end of this post.
Ingredient Information & Expert Substitution Tips
Let’s dive deeper into the components that make this **cream cheese shrimp dip** so irresistible, along with some smart swaps you can make based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.
- SHRIMP: The star of our show! Any size of cooked shrimp works wonderfully here, as you’ll be chopping it into smaller pieces for optimal texture and distribution throughout the dip. This makes it an excellent recipe for utilizing any leftover cooked shrimp you might have from another meal. For convenience, frozen pre-cooked shrimp (thawed and patted dry) is ideal, or even canned shrimp can be used in a pinch after draining thoroughly. Just ensure whatever shrimp you choose is peeled, deveined, and has the tails removed for the best eating experience.
- CREAM CHEESE & MAYONNAISE: These form the foundational creamy base of our dip. Ensure your brick-style cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. This is crucial for achieving that silky-smooth consistency without any lumps. For the mayonnaise, a good quality, full-fat variety will yield the richest flavor and texture. If you prefer, a blend of mayonnaise and sour cream or Greek yogurt can be used for a slightly tangier and lighter profile, though the classic rich flavor comes from full mayo.
- FLAVOR BOOSTERS & AROMATICS:
- Old Bay Seasoning: This iconic blend is non-negotiable for an authentic seafood dip flavor. It brings a unique mix of spices that truly complements the shrimp.
- Chili Garlic Sauce: Provides a fantastic savory heat and depth. Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level – a little goes a long way, but a bit more can add a wonderful kick.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is paramount! It brightens the dip, cuts through the richness of the cream cheese, and enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
- Red Onion & Green Onion Stems: These add a delightful aromatic bite and a subtle crunch. For a milder onion flavor, finely minced shallots can be used instead of red onion. Alternatively, you can use the entire scallion (green and white parts) and omit the red onion for a more uniform, delicate onion flavor.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: A touch of Parmesan adds a savory, umami note that deepens the overall flavor profile.
- FRESH HERBS (Optional): To elevate the freshness, consider stirring in some finely chopped fresh dill or chives. These herbs pair exceptionally well with seafood and add a beautiful touch of color and aroma. Fresh parsley is another excellent choice for a hint of herbaceous brightness.
Exciting Variations for Your Seafood Dip
One of the best things about this **easy shrimp dip** is how adaptable it is. Don’t be afraid to experiment and customize it to your heart’s content!
- Citrus Burst: For an even more vibrant “pop” of flavor, add a teaspoon or two of freshly grated lemon zest to the mixture. Lime zest can also provide an interesting, slightly different twist.
- Spicy Kick: If you crave more heat, stir in a tablespoon of prepared horseradish sauce. A few dashes of your favorite hot sauce (like Tabasco or Frank’s RedHot) or a pinch of cayenne pepper can also amplify the spice level.
- Bold Base Swap: For an adventurous flavor profile, consider substituting all or part of the plain mayonnaise with horseradish mayonnaise. This will give the dip a distinct and bolder character.
- Crunch Factor: Enhance the texture by dicing up a stalk of celery and folding it into the dip. Other great additions for crunch include finely chopped water chestnuts, bell peppers (red or green), or even finely diced cucumber for a refreshing element.
- Smoky Undertones: A pinch of smoked paprika can add a wonderful depth and subtle smoky flavor to the dip, complementing the seafood beautifully.
- Herbaceous Twist: While dill and chives are classic, experiment with other fresh herbs. A teaspoon of dried tarragon can impart a delicate anise-like flavor that pairs wonderfully with shrimp.
- Cheesy Boost: Beyond Parmesan, a tablespoon of finely shredded sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese can add another layer of savory richness.
How to Prepare Your Perfect Shrimp Dip
These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to guide you visually through the process of making this delightful recipe. For the complete printable version, including all precise measurements and instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Begin by chopping your cooked shrimp into small, bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniform pieces so they distribute evenly throughout the dip. Once chopped, set the shrimp aside in a bowl.
- Soften Cream Cheese: Cut the softened brick-style cream cheese into smaller cubes. This will help it process smoothly. Place the cubed cream cheese into the bowl of a mini food chopper or a larger food processor if you prefer.
- Create the Creamy Base: To the food chopper with the cream cheese, add the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, Old Bay seasoning, chili garlic sauce, and fresh lemon juice. Process all these ingredients until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure everything is incorporated, creating a perfectly seasoned, creamy foundation for your dip.
- Combine All Ingredients: In a spacious large mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, the creamy mixture from the food chopper, diced red onion, and sliced green onion stems. Using a rubber spatula, gently stir all the components together until they are thoroughly combined and the shrimp is evenly distributed throughout the rich, flavorful base.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour before serving. This chilling period is essential as it allows all the delicious flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in an even more flavorful and cohesive **cold shrimp dip**. It also helps the dip firm up to the perfect scoopable consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Shrimp Dip
Absolutely! This is one of the best qualities of this **cold shrimp dip**. You can prepare the entire dip and store it, covered tightly, in the refrigerator for up to a day in advance. In fact, making it ahead often allows the flavors to deepen and meld even more beautifully, resulting in a more delicious dip when served.
Store any leftover **creamy shrimp dip** in an air-tight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. We do not recommend freezing shrimp dip, as the creamy base (cream cheese and mayonnaise) can separate and become watery upon thawing, affecting the texture significantly.
Yes, absolutely! Pre-cooked shrimp, whether fresh or frozen, works perfectly in this **easy shrimp dip recipe**. If using frozen precooked shrimp, simply thaw it according to package instructions (typically in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water) and then pat it very dry before chopping. There’s no need to reheat leftover cooked shrimp for this recipe; chilled shrimp is ideal. Since the shrimp is chopped, you can realistically use almost any kind of cooked shrimp, as long as it has been peeled, deveined, and has the tails removed for convenience.
While some people prefer a chunkier texture with whole shrimp, it can be a bit challenging to scoop cleanly with crackers or chips. If you opt for whole shrimp, we highly recommend using extra small or mini cooked shrimp. This size will be easier to manage and less awkward for your guests to enjoy with their dippers of choice. Otherwise, chopping the shrimp ensures a perfect bite every time.
While this is primarily a **cold shrimp dip**, it can be gently warmed if you prefer. Be cautious not to overheat, as mayonnaise-based dips can separate or become oily. If warming, do so in a microwave on low heat in short bursts, stirring frequently, or in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting. The texture will be different, perhaps a bit looser, but still delicious. However, for classic flavor and consistency, chilled is definitely recommended.
The chili garlic sauce provides a mild-to-medium heat. If you like it spicier, you can add more chili garlic sauce, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a few drops of hot sauce. For a milder version, simply reduce the amount of chili garlic sauce or omit it entirely and add a bit more Old Bay seasoning for flavor.
Creative Serving Suggestions for Your Shrimp Dip
Presentation is key when serving appetizers! This delicious **shrimp dip** is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide array of dippers. For a truly impressive spread, consider placing the dip in the center of a large platter and surrounding it with an assortment of options. Serve it well-chilled, ideally after at least an hour of refrigeration, which allows all the intricate flavors to fully develop and mingle. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika, extra chopped green onions, or a fresh lemon wedge for an appealing touch.
Here are some of our favorite dippers:
- Classic Crackers: Buttery Ritz crackers, water crackers, or even simple saltine crackers are always a hit.
- Crispy Chips: Tortilla chips, potato chips, or pita chips add a satisfying crunch.
- Fresh Vegetables: Offer a healthy contrast with colorful veggie sticks like cucumber slices, carrot sticks, celery stalks, bell pepper strips (red, yellow, orange), cherry tomatoes, or broccoli florets.
- Crusty Breads: Slices of toasted baguette, ciabatta bread, or even mini bagel chips provide a hearty option.
- Pretzel Crisps: For a savory, salty crunch that holds up well to the dip.
No matter how you serve it, this **easy shrimp dip** is guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy!
Explore More Delicious Dip Recipes
If you loved this **creamy cold shrimp dip**, you’ll surely enjoy exploring our other fantastic dip recipes:
- Irresistible Crab Dip
- Hearty & Flavorful Bean Dip
- Elegant Smoked Salmon Dip
- Classic Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip
I absolutely adore spending time in the kitchen, creating and experimenting with new recipes, and sharing those experiences with all of you! Remembering to check back for new culinary inspiration can sometimes be a challenge, which is why I offer a super convenient newsletter. Every time a fresh recipe is posted, you’ll receive it directly in your inbox. Simply subscribe today and start receiving your free daily recipes!
Shrimp Dip
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 6 ounces cooked shrimp about 1 cup, peeled, deveined, tails removed
- 8 ounces cream cheese brick-style, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise full-fat recommended
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
- 3 Tablespoons chili garlic sauce adjust to taste
- 1 Tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 2 Tablespoons diced red onion finely diced
- 2 Tablespoons sliced green onion stems for garnish & flavor
Things You’ll Need
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Mini food chopper or food processor/blender to blend the creamy base
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Chef’s knife
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Cutting board
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Rubber spatula
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Large mixing bowl
Before You Begin
- You can use any size cooked shrimp for this recipe as you will be chopping it up anyway. This is a great recipe for any leftover shrimp you may have, or thawed frozen precooked shrimp! Canned shrimp can also be used, thoroughly drained.
- Shallots can be used instead of red onion for a milder flavor, or if you prefer, use the entire scallion (green and white parts) instead of just the stems and leave out the red onion.
- For added freshness, consider complementary herbs such as finely chopped fresh dill, chives, or parsley.
- Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free dip base.
Instructions
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Chop cooked shrimp into small pieces (about 1 cup). Set aside.6 ounces cooked shrimp
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Cut softened cream cheese into cubes and place in a mini food chopper or food processor.8 ounces cream cheese
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Add mayonnaise, grated parmesan cheese, Old Bay seasoning, chili garlic sauce, and lemon juice to the food chopper. Process until completely smooth.1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning, 3 Tablespoons chili garlic sauce, 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, the smooth cream cheese mixture, diced red onion, and sliced green onion stems. Stir gently with a rubber spatula until all ingredients are well combined.2 Tablespoons diced red onion, 2 Tablespoons sliced green onion stems
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Cover the bowl and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the dip to firm up to the perfect consistency.
Expert Tips & FAQs
- Storage – Store any leftover **shrimp dip** in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended for cream cheese-based dips as the texture can change upon thawing.
- Make Ahead – You can prepare this delicious dip up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, chilling it overnight often enhances the flavors!
- Serving Suggestions – Serve your **cold shrimp dip** with a variety of dippers such as crackers, tortilla chips, potato chips, assorted fresh vegetables (celery, carrots, bell peppers, cucumber), or slices of crusty bread/baguettes. Arrange the dip in the center of a platter surrounded by your chosen dippers for an appealing presentation.
- Ingredient Quality – Using good quality, full-fat mayonnaise and fresh lemon juice will make a noticeable difference in the final taste and creaminess of your dip.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.