The Cajun Crab and Shrimp Dip is a party-perfect appetizer that will absolutely steal the show at any gathering. Featuring velvety cream cheese, plump shrimp, sweet lump crab, and a lively blend of Cajun spices, this dip marries luscious textures and bold flavors in every bite. Each spoonful delivers creamy richness with just the right kick, making it a crave-worthy choice for everything from cozy family movie nights to festive celebration platters. If you want to infuse your table with Southern flair and delight your guests with an irresistible, warm party dip, this is the recipe to make!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is an easy win because every ingredient serves a special purpose—creaminess, savoriness, depth, or a touch of heat. Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to create a Cajun Crab and Shrimp Dip that’s as memorable as it is mouthwatering.
- Lump crab meat (6 oz): The star of the dip—use fresh, canned, or refrigerated for sweet, delicate bites and always pick out shells.
- Cooked shrimp (6 oz, chopped): Juicy shrimp adds wonderful bite and seafood flavor; small shrimp or chopped larger shrimp both work well.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The rich base that gives the dip its creamy, dreamy texture—let it come to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds a fresh tang for balance, keeping the dip light and scoopable.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Rounds out the creaminess and adds that classic smooth finish.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup): Melts right into the dip for an ooey-gooey pull in every scoop!
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): A layer of salty, nutty complexity that complements the seafood beautifully.
- Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens everything up—always use fresh for the best flavor.
- Cajun seasoning (1 tablespoon): The heart of the flavor! Choose your favorite blend for a smoky, peppery, slightly spicy backbone.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses mellow garlicky goodness without overpowering the dip.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Brings an irresistible smoky note and gorgeous color.
- Cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who adore a little extra heat—add more or less to taste.
- Green onions (2, sliced): Deliver a crisp, savory lift and lovely color flecks throughout the dip.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, optional, for garnish): A fresh, vibrant finishing touch that makes the whole dish pop.
How to Make Cajun Crab and Shrimp Dip
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to guarantee golden bubbly goodness when your dip bakes. Lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet with oil or nonstick spray—this helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if you’re going for that spicy kick). Whip it all together until you have a smooth, fluffy, and beautifully seasoned base that already smells like something amazing.
Step 3: Fold in the Seafood and Cheeses
Add the chopped shrimp, lump crab meat, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and sliced green onions to your creamy base. Gently fold them in to keep those lovely crab lumps intact—this step is where the Cajun Crab and Shrimp Dip earns its irresistible texture and bursts of seafood in every bite.
Step 4: Spread and Bake
Transfer the mixture into your greased baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer. Pop it into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for a hot and bubbly finish with a faintly golden top—peek at it towards the last few minutes to avoid overbaking.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the Cajun Crab and Shrimp Dip is baked to perfection, give it a quick sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and some extra green onions. This lively finishing touch adds fresh aroma and tons of visual appeal. Serve the dip piping hot and watch it disappear!
How to Serve Cajun Crab and Shrimp Dip
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and thinly sliced green onions not only makes your Cajun Crab and Shrimp Dip look extra appetizing but also lends a fresh lift to every gooey bite. For extra color and a dash of zing, try a few lemon wedges on the side—guests can squeeze as they please!
Side Dishes
This dip is a dream served with crispy crackers, cool crunchy veggies, toasted baguette slices, or sturdy tortilla chips. A platter full of pickled okra, celery sticks, or even mild red bell pepper strips offers wonderful crunch and contrast, while classic potato chips never, ever disappoint when scooping up creamy bites.
Creative Ways to Present
Set the warm Cajun Crab and Shrimp Dip in a hollowed sourdough loaf for a show-stopping bread bowl. Scoop some into individual ramekins for personal appetizers at dinner parties, or make a triple batch for game day and serve on a rustic wooden board surrounded by assorted dippables. For an extra festive touch, top with tiny, sautéed shrimp or extra crab claws before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool down to room temperature, then scoop into an airtight container. The Cajun Crab and Shrimp Dip will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it just as perfect for snacking tomorrow as it was straight from the oven today.
Freezing
While you can freeze this dip, it’s best before baking for maximum freshness. Prep the dip, spread it in a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as usual. Note: the texture of the cream cheese and seafood may change slightly, but the flavor remains delicious.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop leftovers back in a 350°F oven until warmed through and bubbly—about 15 minutes should do it. For a single portion, the microwave works fine: zap it in short bursts, stirring gently between each, to preserve the dip’s creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use imitation crab or frozen shrimp in this recipe?
Absolutely! While real lump crab and fresh or thawed cooked shrimp give the most luxurious texture and taste, high-quality imitation crab or well-drained frozen shrimp will work in a pinch. Just be sure all seafood is fully cooked and patted dry before folding it into your Cajun Crab and Shrimp Dip.
How spicy is this Cajun Crab and Shrimp Dip?
It’s got a lively, flavorful kick from the Cajun seasoning and optional cayenne pepper—but you’re the boss of the heat! Dial it up with more spice, or tone it down by omitting cayenne and using a milder Cajun blend. Guests who love extra heat can always splash on some hot sauce at the table.
Can I make Cajun Crab and Shrimp Dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire dip up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When party time arrives, just bake as directed for a fresh-from-the-oven treat with zero stress.
What are the best crackers or bread for serving with this dip?
Sturdy crackers, lightly toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or thick tortilla chips all pair beautifully. Anything crisp and able to hold up to a warm, creamy dip will work—get creative with your favorites!
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! This recipe is easy to scale. Simply double all the ingredients and bake in a larger dish, keeping an eye on the bake time—it may need a few extra minutes for that bubbly, golden perfection.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a crowd-pleaser that brings creamy decadence and that unmistakable Cajun spirit to the table, give this Cajun Crab and Shrimp Dip a whirl. It’s easy, deeply flavorful, and guaranteed to be the dish everyone requests again and again—can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy!
Print
Cajun Crab and Shrimp Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the bold flavors of the Cajun Crab and Shrimp Dip, a creamy and savory seafood appetizer that is perfect for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Dip:
- 6 oz lump crab meat (drained and picked over)
- 6 oz cooked shrimp (chopped)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 green onions (sliced)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
- Prepare the dip: In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix until smooth and creamy. Fold in the chopped shrimp, crab meat, mozzarella, Parmesan, and green onions.
- Bake: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and additional green onions, if desired. Serve warm with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or tortilla chips.
Notes
- You can make this dip ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
- For extra heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Use fresh or frozen seafood—just be sure it’s fully cooked and well-drained.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of dip
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
