If you’re planning a party or holiday gathering and want to impress your guests, this Shrimp and Crab Dip is the recipe you need. Rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, this dip is the perfect combination of seafood indulgence and effortless entertaining. Whether you’re throwing a coastal-themed event or just love good southern-style appetizers, this seafood dip recipe belongs on your table.
Loaded with shrimp, lump crab meat, cream cheese, and savory seasonings, it’s one of those seafood appetizers for a party that people can’t stop dipping into. Serve it hot, warm, or cold—this dip delivers in every way.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp and Crab Dip
This homemade crab dip with shrimp stands out because it’s:
- Super easy to make – No complicated ingredients or prep.
- Versatile – Serve it baked or chilled, with chips, crackers, or bread.
- Great for a crowd – Perfect for game day, family parties, or potlucks.
- Packed with seafood flavor – A delicious balance of shrimp and crab.
- Southern-inspired – A creamy, cheesy dip that fits right into any southern appetizer spread.
Looking for more party-friendly dishes? Check out Snake Charmers Pretzels and Cheese-Stuffed Mini Peppers for more appetizer inspiration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into this delicious seafood dip:
- Cream cheese – Softened, for that creamy base.
- Mayonnaise – Adds richness and a slight tang.
- Sour cream – Lightens up the texture and adds flavor.
- Cooked shrimp – Chopped finely (tail-off recommended).
- Lump crab meat – Go for real crab if possible!
- Green onions – Adds color and bite.
- Cheddar cheese – Because cheese and seafood are meant to be together.
- Old Bay seasoning – The classic seafood spice.
- Garlic powder & Worcestershire sauce – Deepens the flavor.
- Fresh lemon juice – Brightens everything up.
Optional: A splash of hot sauce or Cajun seasoning if you want a spicier version, similar to a shrimp queso dip recipe.
How to Make Shrimp and Crab Dip
Step 1: Mix the Base
In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese, mayo, and sour cream until smooth. You can use a hand mixer for a fluffier texture.
Step 2: Add Seafood & Seasonings
Fold in the chopped shrimp, crab meat, green onions, shredded cheese, lemon juice, Worcestershire, and spices.
Step 3: Heat (Optional)
If you want a warm dip, spoon it into a baking dish, sprinkle extra cheese on top, and bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Step 4: Serve
Serve warm with crackers, crostini, or sliced baguette. For a chilled version, simply refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.
This dip goes great with Garlic Butter Corn with Melty Cheese or Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches for a full party spread.
Make It Your Own
This recipe is flexible. Try these tasty variations:
- Spicy Version: Add a chopped jalapeño or 1 tsp of hot sauce.
- Herbed Dip: Mix in fresh dill or parsley for a pop of freshness.
- Cheesy Twist: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, gouda, or even creamier Brie.
- Bacon Lover’s Version: Add crumbled bacon for an extra smoky bite.
Want to go all-in on shrimp? Try our Garlic Parmesan Shrimp or High Protein Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry.
Serving Suggestions for Parties
This shrimp crab dip is one of the best seafood recipes for a crowd, and it pairs perfectly with:
- Toasted bread rounds
- Tortilla chips or pita chips
- Celery and cucumber slices
- Mini sweet peppers
- Crackers
Want to build a full seafood appetizer table? Add Southern Shrimp and Grits or One-Pot Shrimp and Sausage Jambalaya.
How to Store Shrimp and Crab Dip
To refrigerate:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To reheat:
Warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or microwave until heated through.
Can you freeze it?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may separate. This is best enjoyed fresh!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned crab meat?
Yes, but opt for lump or claw meat in water (not imitation). Always drain well before using.
Can I make this ahead?
Definitely. Make it up to a day in advance and bake just before serving.
Is this dip spicy?
Not by default, but you can spice it up with Cajun seasoning, hot sauce, or jalapeños.
Can I make this dip without shrimp?
Sure! For a simpler homemade crab dip, just omit the shrimp or replace with more crab.
More Southern Appetizers for Parties
This shrimp dip pairs perfectly with other party foods. For your next event, try:
- Crescent Roll Mummy Hot Dogs
- Cucumber Shrimp Salad
- Sweet Chili Meatballs
- Spooky Ghost Pumpkin Cookies
- Crack Breakfast Casserole – for brunch parties
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp and Crab Dip is the ultimate blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory. Whether you’re making it as a seafood appetizer for a party or a cozy Sunday snack, it’s guaranteed to be the dish everyone asks you about.
So go ahead—mix up this crowd-pleasing dip, and get ready to watch it disappear in minutes.
And if you’re hosting more gatherings this season, don’t forget to browse our Appetizers Collection for ideas that wow without stress.
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Irresistible Shrimp and Crab Dip – The Ultimate Seafood Party Appetizer
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Description
This warm, bubbly Shrimp and Crab Dip is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with real seafood. Perfect for sea food appetizers at parties, game day spreads, or cozy holiday gatherings—serve hot with crostini, crackers, or veggies.
Ingredients
- Seafood:
- 1/2 lb cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1/2 lb lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained well)
- Creamy Base:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- Flavor Builders:
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun spice blend)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt & freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Cheese:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- Toppings (optional):
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prep seafood: If using raw shrimp, sauté in a little oil 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Cool, then chop. Drain crab very well.
- Make the base: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Mix in sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire, Old Bay, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until creamy.
- Fold in seafood & cheese: Gently stir in chopped shrimp, crab, mozzarella, and Parmesan—do not overmix.
- Bake: Spread into an 8×8-inch baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until golden and bubbling at the edges.
- Finish & serve: Garnish with parsley/chives and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot with crostini, crackers, baguette slices, pita chips, or veggie sticks.
Notes
- Use real crab (lump or claw) for best flavor; drain thoroughly.
- Soften cream cheese to avoid lumps; overbaking can cause separation.
- For a spicy kick, add cayenne or hot sauce; sauté shrimp in garlic butter for extra flavor.
- Make-ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance; bake when ready (add 5–7 minutes if starting cold). Reheat gently at 300°F.
- Serving ideas: Spoon into mini phyllo cups or stuff mushrooms for bite-sized appetizers.
- Storage: Refrigerate up to 3 days. Avoid freezing (dairy can turn grainy).
- Gluten-free friendly: Serve with GF crackers or veggies; verify seasoning blends.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1/4 cup
Keywords: shrimp and crab dip, seafood dip appetizer, warm shrimp dip, baked crab dip, southern appetizers for parties, seafood recipes for a crowd, shrimp dips, seafood dips recipes appetizers
