Description
This Cajun Crab and Shrimp Dip is a rich and flavorful seafood appetizer featuring succulent crab meat and chopped shrimp blended with creamy cheeses and a zesty Cajun seasoning. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s perfect for serving warm alongside crackers or toasted bread at gatherings or parties.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 1 cup crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
Dairy
- 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
Seasonings & Others
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 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 ensure it reaches the right temperature by the time your dip is assembled.
- Mix Base Cream: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, forming a rich base for the dip.
- Season the Mixture: Add Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, hot sauce (if using), and fresh lemon juice to the creamy mixture. Mix well to evenly distribute the bold flavors.
- Add Seafood and Cheese: Fold in the crab meat, chopped shrimp, chopped green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese carefully, ensuring the seafood pieces remain intact and the cheese is well incorporated.
- Adjust Seasoning: Season the combined mixture with salt and pepper to your taste, stirring gently to blend the flavors uniformly.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the prepared dip mixture to a baking dish and spread it out evenly for consistent cooking.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the dip is bubbly and the top is golden brown, indicating it’s perfectly cooked and flavorful.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve warm with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- For extra heat, add more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make sure crab meat is checked thoroughly to avoid any shell pieces.
- This dip can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor impact.
- Serve promptly to enjoy warm and gooey cheese consistency.
