Description
This spicy shrimp dip is a creamy, flavorful appetizer perfect for parties or gatherings. Made with butter-sauteed shrimp, red bell peppers, and onions, combined with cream cheese, Parmesan, and a kick of Cajun seasoning, it bakes to a golden, bubbly perfection that pairs wonderfully with pita chips or crackers.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp Mixture
- 3 Tablespoons butter
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 pounds raw small shrimp, coarsely chopped
- 1 Tablespoon Cajun seasoning
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350º F (175º C) to prepare for baking the dip until golden and bubbly.
- Saute Vegetables: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter. Add the finely chopped red bell pepper and onion, sauteing for 3-5 minutes until tender and fragrant.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the coarsely chopped raw shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turns opaque and is fully cooked through.
- Mix Cheese and Seasoning: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and Cajun seasoning. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked shrimp and vegetable mixture to the cheese mixture in the bowl and stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Bake the Dip: Transfer the combined mixture into an oven-safe dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm with pita chips, crackers, or your favorite dippables for a delicious appetizer experience.
Notes
- Use small shrimp for best texture; ensure they are cooked but not overdone.
- You can adjust Cajun seasoning to taste for mild or extra spicy heat.
- For a creamier texture, soften cream cheese before mixing.
- Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
- This dip can be prepared ahead by mixing all ingredients and refrigerating, then baking just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: spicy shrimp dip, shrimp appetizer, Cajun dip, cream cheese dip, party dip, baked shrimp dip
