ย Deluxe Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip is an elegant and flavorful appetizer that promises to impress your guests. This rich and creamy dip combines tender shrimp, succulent crab meat, and fresh spinach, creating a luxurious and satisfying dish. Perfect for any occasion, this dip pairs beautifully with a variety of breads or crackers, making it an ideal choice for parties, family gatherings, or simply a cozy night in. Dive into this delectable recipe and discover a new favorite thatโs sure to be a hit at your next event.
Ingredients
โข 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
โข 1/2 lb lump crab meat
โข 1 tablespoon olive oil
โข 2 cloves garlic, minced
โข 5 oz baby spinach
โข 8 oz cream cheese, softened
โข 1/2 cup mayonnaise
โข 1/2 cup sour cream
โข 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
โข 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
โข 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional)
โข Salt and pepper to taste
โข Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
โข Bread or crackers, for serving
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) to ensure itโs ready when needed.
2. Cook the Garlic and Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and cooked through, approximately 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Wilt the Spinach: In the same skillet, add baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove spinach from the skillet and set aside.
4. Prepare the Cream Base: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and Old Bay seasoning (if using). Mix until smooth.
5. Combine Ingredients: Fold in cooked shrimp, lump crab meat, and cooked spinach into the cream cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm with bread or crackers.
Preparation and Cooking Times
โข Prep Time: 20 minutes
โข Cooking Time: 25 minutes
โข Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
โข Calories: 320 kcal per serving
โข Servings: 6 servings
Tips
โข Seafood Selection: For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp and lump crab meat. Frozen can be used in a pinch, but make sure to thaw and drain them well.
โข Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyรจre or Fontina for a unique twist.
โข Spice it Up: Add a bit of heat with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce in the cream cheese mixture.
โข Serving Suggestions: This dip is delicious with a variety of dippers such as sliced baguette, pita chips, or an assortment of fresh vegetables.
Benefits
โข High Protein: This dip is packed with protein from the shrimp and crab, making it a satisfying and nourishing appetizer.
โข Rich in Vitamins: Spinach provides a good dose of vitamins A and C, as well as iron and fiber.
โข Indulgent and Comforting: The creamy base made with cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream offers a luxurious texture that is both comforting and indulgent.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip up to the baking step and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, bake it in the preheated oven until hot and bubbly.
Can I use different seafood?
Absolutely! You can substitute the shrimp and crab with other seafood like lobster or scallops for a different yet equally delicious flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Is this dip gluten-free?
Yes, the dip itself is gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free bread or crackers if needed.
Conclusion
Deluxe Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the best of seafood with rich, creamy goodness. Its elegant flavors and satisfying texture make it perfect for any gathering. With simple preparation and the flexibility to customize ingredients, this dip is a must-try for seafood lovers and party hosts alike. Enjoy the delightful blend of shrimp, crab, and spinach in every bite!
