Description
This Cajun Crab and Shrimp Dip combines creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors with succulent seafood for a decadent appetizer. Featuring a blend of crab meat and chopped shrimp mixed with cream cheese, sour cream, and a mix of cheeses, all seasoned with Cajun spices and baked to bubbly perfection, it’s perfect for parties or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 1 cup crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
Dairy & Condiments
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Seasonings & Aromatics
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the dip.
- Mix Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, hot sauce if using, and fresh lemon juice. Mix thoroughly to infuse the creamy base with bold flavors.
- Incorporate Seafood and Cheese: Gently fold in the crab meat, chopped shrimp, chopped green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring even distribution without breaking up the seafood.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper according to your preference and mix lightly to combine.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the dip mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly for uniform cooking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm alongside crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- If you prefer more heat, increase the amount of hot sauce or Cajun seasoning.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to ensure a smooth base mixture.
- Use fresh crab meat for best flavor, but canned crab meat can be used as a convenient alternative.
- This dip can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
