Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip

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Ingredients

For the Dip:

  • 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
  • 1 cup lump crab meat (fresh, canned, or imitation)
  • 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon

For Serving:

  • Tortilla chips, baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetables

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

  1. If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out any excess liquid. For fresh spinach, sauté it lightly in a pan until wilted. Set aside.
  2. Cook shrimp if it isn’t pre-cooked, then chop into small pieces.

Step 2: Make the Base

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Beat until smooth.
  2. Stir in 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.

Step 3: Assemble the Dip

  1. Fold in the spinach, shrimp, and crab meat. Mix gently to ensure even distribution.
  2. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture and stir to combine.

Step 4: Bake the Dip

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Transfer the dip mixture to a greased baking dish or an oven-safe skillet.
  3. Top with the remaining 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese.
  4. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden on top.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for color.
  2. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, toasted baguette slices, or fresh-cut veggies like carrots and celery.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Tips and Variations

  1. Add Spice
    • Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for heat.
  2. Extra Cheesy
    • Add 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar or Gruyère for more cheesy goodness.
  3. Seafood Variation
    • Substitute crab or shrimp with scallops or cooked lobster for a luxurious twist.
  4. Make it a Bread Bowl
    • Hollow out a round loaf of bread and fill it with the dip before baking. Use the bread chunks for dipping.

Enjoy your Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip! Let me know if you need pairing suggestions or other appetizer ideas.

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