Cheesy Shrimp & Crab Bake Dip (Creamy Seafood Appetizer)
This Cheesy Shrimp and Crab Bake Dip is a rich, creamy, and irresistible hot seafood dip recipe loaded with tender shrimp, savory crab meat, and layers of melted cheese. Perfect for parties, holidays, game day, or family gatherings, this baked seafood dip is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Cheesy Shrimp & Crab Bake Dip
Seafood Base
200 g shrimp, finely chopped
200 g crab meat (fresh, canned, or imitation)
1 tablespoon butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Creamy Cheesy Dip Mixture
200 g cream cheese, softened
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning or Cajun seasoning for extra flavor
Topping
Extra mozzarella and cheddar cheese
Paprika or chili flakes (optional)
How to Make Cheesy Shrimp & Crab Bake Dip
Sauté the Shrimp
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes, just until pink. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and gently mix in the crab meat.
Prepare the Creamy Cheese Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, lemon juice, parsley, and seasoning. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Combine the Seafood & Cheese
Fold the shrimp and crab mixture into the creamy cheese base. Mix gently until evenly combined for the perfect cheesy seafood dip.
Bake Until Golden & Bubbly
Spread the mixture into a small baking dish. Top with extra mozzarella and cheddar, then sprinkle with paprika or chili flakes.
Bake at 190°C (375°F) for 18–22 minutes, or until hot, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
How to Serve
Serve this baked shrimp and crab dip hot with:
Toasted baguette slices
Crackers
Tortilla chips
Fresh veggie sticks
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ultra creamy and cheesy seafood dip
Packed with shrimp and crab flavor
Easy oven-baked appetizer
Perfect for entertaining and special occasions
