Cheesy Layer:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Shrimp Topping:
- 1 lb cooked small shrimp (peeled, deveined)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Creamy Base
- In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt and pepper until smooth.
- Spread this mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish or a shallow pie dish.
Step 2: Add the Cheese
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Step 3: Top with Shrimp
- Arrange the cooked shrimp across the top. (You can chop half and leave some whole for presentation.)
- Sprinkle extra paprika and parsley or chives for color and flavor.
Step 4: Bake or Chill
- To Serve Warm: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 18–20 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden.
- To Serve Cold: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Step 5: Serve!
- Serve with buttery crackers, toasted baguette slices, or celery sticks.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality shrimp — wild-caught if possible.
- To soften cream cheese fast, microwave it for 15–20 seconds.
- Add a splash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Chill the cold version for at least an hour for best flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Shrimp Dip: Add 1–2 tsp hot sauce or diced jalapeños.
- Shrimp & Crab: Fold in 1/2 cup lump crab meat for a seafood lover’s dream.
- Cheese Swap: Use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack instead of cheddar.
- Old Bay Boost: Sprinkle 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning for a Chesapeake vibe.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Sour cream → Plain Greek yogurt
- Mayonnaise → Avocado mayo or low-fat mayo
- Cream cheese → Neufchâtel for lighter texture
- Shrimp → Use canned baby shrimp (well-drained) if you’re short on time
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Microwave individual servings or rewarm in the oven at 300°F until hot.
- Do Not Freeze: Texture may change when thawed.
What to Serve With This Dip
- Ritz crackers or club crackers (very retro!)
- Sliced baguette or crostini
- Celery sticks and bell pepper strips
- A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling lemonade
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx.)
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble up to a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I use canned shrimp?
Absolutely — just drain well and rinse before using.
Is this served hot or cold?
Either! It’s delicious both ways depending on your party setup.
Related Recipes
- Try our spicy crab dip for another throwback appetizer.
- Check out easy 5-ingredient party dips for quick options.
Conclusion
This retro shrimp dip recipe brings back the charm of 1970s party tables in the tastiest way. Whether baked bubbly or served chilled, it’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your appetizer rotation.
