Name: Cheesy Rich and Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 ounces cooked shrimp, chopped; 4 ounces lump crab meat, drained; 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup cooked spinach, squeezed dry; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

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If you’re looking for the ultimate show-stopper for your next gathering, this Cheesy Rich and Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip is about to become your new obsession. It’s everything you want in a party dip: luscious, melty cheese, sweet seafood, tender spinach, and just the right touch of spice, all swirled together and baked to golden, bubbly perfection. Whether you’re planning a cozy family movie night or bringing something special to a festive potluck, this decadent dip is guaranteed to disappear fast!

Cheesy Rich and Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish comes together with a handful of simple but oh-so-important ingredients—each one brings its own magic to the Cheesy Rich and Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip. From the creamy base to the flavorful seafood, every element counts for maximum flavor and that irresistible, scoopable texture.

Shrimp (4 ounces, cooked and chopped): Use fresh, frozen, or even canned shrimp—just make sure they’re cooked and patted dry before chopping for the best texture.
Lump Crab Meat (4 ounces, drained): The star of the show! Go for fresh or high-quality canned crab for that sweet, briny flavor.
Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened): The secret to a smooth, creamy foundation that holds the dip together.
Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Adds tang and a light, fluffy lift to every bite.
Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Brings a subtle richness and helps everything blend beautifully.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup): Melts into that iconic, gooey cheese pull we all crave.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup): Gives a salty, nutty boost and a gorgeous golden crust on top.
Cooked Spinach (1 cup, squeezed dry): Packed with color and nutrients—be sure to remove as much water as possible for a thick, creamy dip.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Freshly minced garlic adds a punch of flavor that rounds out the richness.
Old Bay Seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for that classic seafood kick—don’t skip it!
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For just the right amount of gentle heat, if you like a little tingle.
Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Brings all the flavors into perfect harmony.
Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon): A splash of citrus brightens up the whole dip and lifts the seafood flavor.

How to Make Cheesy Rich and Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your dip will bake evenly and develop that irresistible bubbling, golden-brown top. While the oven heats, gather all your ingredients and let your cream cheese soften so it blends effortlessly.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. Use a sturdy spatula or hand mixer to blend everything until the mixture is smooth and fluffy—this creamy base is what gives the Cheesy Rich and Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip its signature texture.

Step 3: Add Flavor Boosters

Stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if you like it spicy), plus a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. These seasonings layer in tons of flavor and ensure every scoop is deliciously complex.

Step 4: Fold in Seafood and Spinach

Gently fold in the cooked spinach (make sure it’s squeezed dry!), chopped shrimp, and lump crab meat. Take care not to overmix—you want the seafood to stay tender and the spinach evenly distributed, creating colorful pockets throughout the dip.

Step 5: Transfer and Bake

Spoon the mixture into a greased baking dish or oven-safe skillet, smoothing the top with a spatula. Pop it in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and beautifully golden on top. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving—it will be piping hot right out of the oven!

How to Serve Cheesy Rich and Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip

Garnishes

Add a final flourish to your Cheesy Rich and Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip by sprinkling extra Parmesan or mozzarella on top just before baking. For a pop of color, scatter over some chopped fresh parsley or a few thinly sliced green onions. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving will really make the flavors sing.

Side Dishes

This dip is the life of the party, so pair it with dippers that let it shine! Toasted baguette slices, crispy crackers, or crunchy tortilla chips are all classic choices. For a lighter, gluten-free option, try sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or celery sticks—anything sturdy enough to scoop up all that cheesy, seafood-packed goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, bake the dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a rustic, crowd-pleasing centerpiece. Or, scoop individual portions into mini ramekins for personal servings at an elegant dinner party. You can even use it as a filling for stuffed mushrooms or as a decadent topping for baked potatoes—there are so many ways to enjoy Cheesy Rich and Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip beyond the classic!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer the cooled Cheesy Rich and Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the next-day dip even more irresistible!

Freezing

While dairy-based dips can sometimes separate when frozen, this recipe holds up well thanks to the cream cheese base. Place cooled dip in a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space for expansion. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, spoon the dip into an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly, about 15–20 minutes. For a quick fix, you can also microwave individual servings in short bursts, stirring often. Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top before reheating to refresh that creamy, melty finish.

FAQs

Can I use imitation crab or shrimp in this dip?

Absolutely! While real seafood delivers the best flavor, imitation crab and shrimp work well in a pinch and make this dip a bit more budget-friendly. Just be sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces and mix them in gently.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The Cheesy Rich and Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip itself is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free dippers like veggie sticks or your favorite GF crackers if you’re catering to gluten-sensitive guests.

Can I prepare the dip ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the dip up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s going straight from the fridge.

What if I don’t have Old Bay seasoning?

No worries! You can substitute with a blend of paprika, celery salt, and a pinch of cayenne for a similar flavor profile, or use your favorite seafood seasoning mix.

How do I keep the dip from being watery?

The key is to thoroughly squeeze the cooked spinach to remove as much moisture as possible before adding it to the dip. Draining the seafood well also helps ensure a thick, scoopable texture every time.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Cheesy Rich and Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip—it’s truly a recipe that brings people together and has everyone reaching for just one more scoop. Whether you serve it at a party or enjoy it for a cozy night in, it’s sure to become a new favorite. Happy dipping!

Cheesy Rich and Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip Recipe

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4.7 from 14 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in this Cheesy Rich and Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip, a perfect appetizer bursting with succulent seafood, creamy cheeses, and tender spinach, all baked to bubbly perfection. Ideal for parties or cozy evenings, this dip pairs wonderfully with toasted bread, crackers, or fresh veggies.

Ingredients

Scale

Seafood

4 ounces cooked shrimp, chopped
4 ounces lump crab meat, drained

Dairy

1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Vegetables & Seasonings

1 cup cooked spinach, squeezed dry
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the dip.
Mix Cheeses and Creams: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan until smooth and well blended.
Add Flavors: Stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes if using, and season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste for a perfectly seasoned base.
Incorporate Spinach and Seafood: Fold the cooked, drained spinach, chopped shrimp, and crab meat into the cheese mixture gently until everything is evenly combined.
Prepare for Baking: Transfer the cheesy seafood and spinach mixture into a baking dish or oven-safe skillet, spreading it out evenly and smoothing the top.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and has a slightly golden top.
Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving warm. Serve with toasted bread, crackers, or sliced vegetables for dipping.

Notes

Use fresh, frozen, or canned crab and shrimp—ensure they are cooked and thoroughly drained before use to avoid sogginess.
For extra zing, add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking.
This dip can be made ahead of time and refrigerated, then baked just before serving.
For a gluten-free option, serve with gluten-free crackers or fresh vegetable sticks.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American