WHAT’S FOR AN APPETIZER?
Creamy Shrimp and Spinach Dip
Array/5
COOK TIME
20 min
TOTAL TIME
30 min
SERVINGS
8-10 servings
This Creamy Shrimp and Spinach Dip is the perfect blend of buttery garlic shrimp, tangy cream cheese, and melty mozzarella, all baked and bubbly. It comes together in 30 minutes and is a great appetizer for parties and holidays when you need something simple and impressive!
When it comes to the best party appetizers, sure, you can set out a platter of veggies and chips, but let’s be real, those aren’t the dishes that people rave about or demand the recipe for. The appetizers everyone remembers and loves are the ones that are creamy, indulgent, and full of flavor. That’s exactly what this creamy spinach shrimp dip delivers, thanks to its rich combination of buttery garlic shrimp, tangy cream cheese, and melty mozzarella cheese.
What makes everyone come back for more is the amount of creamy dairy in the mix:
Butter brings a rich, savory flavor and helps sauté the garlic and shrimp.
Sour cream makes up part of the base of the recipe and adds a tangy creaminess that balances the richness.
Cream cheese creates a smooth, velvety texture and enhances the dip’s indulgent flavor.
Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the shrimp and spinach.
Mozzarella cheese melts into gooey, bubbly goodness, making every bite cheesy.
How could you not devour it, especially when paired with your favorite crackers, sliced French bread, or any dipper you enjoy?
This dip comes together so easily that you’ll be surprised at how simple it is to make. Start by sautéing onions and garlic in butter to build a flavorful base, then add in the shrimp and cook until they’re perfectly pink. Toss in the spinach, sour cream, and cream cheese, letting it all melt into a creamy, dreamy mixture. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella for extra cheesiness, sprinkle more mozzarella on top, and pop the skillet into the oven. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a golden, bubbly dip that’s ready for guests!
And because dips really are what makes a party, I know you’ll love my recipes for Hot Chocolate Dip, Boat Dip, or my famous Fried Pickle Ranch Dip!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Butter – Adds a rich, savory flavor to the base of the dip and helps sauté the onions, garlic, and shrimp.
Olive Oil – A drizzle of olive oil keeps everything from sticking and adds a hint of richness to complement the butter.
Onion & Garlic – Chopped onion brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the dip, while garlic adds a bold, aromatic kick.
Shrimp – Fresh shrimp gives the dip its seafood twist, adding juicy bites of protein and a touch of elegance.
Kosher Salt – Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients without overpowering them.
Frozen Chopped Spinach – Adds color, nutrients, and a fresh, earthy flavor.
Cream Cheese & Sour Cream – When mixed together, it gives the dip a rich, creamy texture that holds the dip together and makes it indulgent.
Parmesan Cheese – Brings a nutty, salty bite to the dip.
Mozzarella Cheese – Creates that golden, bubbly top layer everyone loves.
Step By Step Instructions
Prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F while you saute your ingredients.
Saute the shrimp and vegetables: Place a cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Add butter and a drizzle of olive oil. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to let it burn. Add the chopped shrimp to the skillet and season with kosher salt. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
Mix in the creamy ingredients: Reduce the heat to low-medium. Stir in the cream cheese, sour cream, and thawed, drained spinach, allowing everything to combine and melt into a creamy mixture.
Add the cheeses: Sprinkle in the shredded Parmesan cheese and 1 ½ cups of the mozzarella cheese, stirring well to evenly incorporate the cheese throughout the dip.
Top with mozzarella: Spread the mixture evenly in the skillet, then sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese on top to create a golden, bubbly topping.
Bake the dip: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the top is melted and begins to turn slightly golden brown.
Serve and enjoy: Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite crackers, chips, bread, or veggies for dipping!
Expert Tips
Use a cast iron skillet for the best results because it retains heat well and transitions easily from stovetop to oven.
Fully drain and squeeze out the spinach after thawing to prevent excess liquid from making the dip watery.
Chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces so that every scoop of the dip gets a bit of that delicious seafood.
Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before using it to make it easier to blend into the dip.
Grate the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese fresh for the creamiest texture and best flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often has added coatings that affect melting.
Use medium heat when melting the cream cheese to keep it from scorching while it blends into the mixture.
Bake the dip in the center of the oven for even cooking and a perfectly golden, bubbly top.
Let the dip rest for about 5 minutes after baking to set slightly. It makes it easier to scoop and enjoy without burning your tongue!
Ways To Customize
Swap the shrimp for cooked crab meat or lump crab, or add both for even more seafood flavor.
Add a kick of heat by mixing in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
Replace mozzarella with fontina or Monterey Jack cheese for a slightly different taste and texture.
Stir in artichoke hearts for a classic spinach and artichoke combination that pairs well with the shrimp.
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option that still adds tangy creaminess with extra protein.
Add a layer of breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and Parmesan on top before baking for a golden, crispy finish.
Mix in sun-dried tomatoes for a bright, savory flavor that complements the spinach and shrimp.
Use smoked paprika in the seasoning to add a subtle, smoky flavor that enhances the dip’s overall richness.
Storing & Freezing
Storing: Allow the dip to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Place the cooled dip in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. It may have a slightly different texture when thawed.
Reheating: To reheat, transfer the dip to an oven-safe dish and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until hot and bubbly. For smaller portions, heat in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between.
FAQ
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen spinach?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Sauté it briefly until wilted, then drain any excess liquid before adding it to the dip.
What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Use raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Medium-sized shrimp work well and are easy to chop into bite-sized pieces.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake it just before serving for the freshest results.
What’s the best way to thaw frozen spinach?
Thaw frozen spinach by leaving it in the refrigerator overnight or using the microwave on the defrost setting. Squeeze out all the excess water to keep the dip from becoming watery.
Can I make this dip without a cast iron skillet?
You can use any oven-safe skillet or prepare the dip in a regular pan and transfer it to a baking dish before baking.
How do I know when the dip is done baking?
The dip is ready when the top is golden and bubbly and the edges are slightly browned. This typically takes about 15 minutes at 375°F.
What are the best dippers to serve with this dip?
Serve this dip with sturdy crackers, tortilla chips, crusty bread, or fresh-cut veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers.
More Party Appetizers
Print
Creamy Shrimp and Spinach Dip
This dip is made with butter, garlic, shrimp, and spinach, plus sour cream AND cream cheese. Topped with tons of cheese and baked in the oven. This Creamy Spinach Dip is full of buttery garlic flavor then paired with the tangy and rich mix of cream cheese and sour cream.
Ingredients
2 Tablespoons Hiland Dairy Butter
Olive oil
½ onion, chopped
2 Tablespoons minced garlic
10 oz raw shrimp, cut into pieces
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Frozen Chopped Spinach, 16 oz. Thawed and drained
8 oz Hiland Dairy Cream Cheese
1 cup Hiland Dairy Sour Cream
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. In a cast iron skillet or oven safe skillet, add the Hiland butter and a drizzle of olive oil on medium/high heat.
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Once butter is melted, add the chopped onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft. Add the garlic and stir together and cook for another minute.
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Add the chopped shrimp plus the salt to the hot pan and cook until shrimp are pink, about 5 minutes.
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Once shrimp are cooked, turn the heat to low/medium and add the Hiland Cream Cheese and Sour Cream plus the spinach. Stir together until combined and the cream cheese melts.
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Add the parmesan cheese and 1 ½ cups of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir all together until the cheese is melted through.
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Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese over the top and move the entire skillet to the oven.
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Cook for about 15 minutes until the cheese on top is melted and starting to get slightly brown.
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Remove from the oven and serve with your favorite cracker, chip, bread or veggie!
Notes
*To reheat any leftovers, place the skillet on the stove on low/medium heat until warmed through.
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8 Responses
This Dip is delicious! I definite plan to make it again for my family! I served it with pita crackers & carrots.
So happy you liked it! It’s one of our favorites!
This is the first time I made this. I had to treat this as a newcomer. When I became comfortable; mincing the ingredients it was delicious. It’s just like that hot sauce commercial. ” I’d put that sh@t on everything.”
I would give it 5 stars.
I’d give this recipe 5 stars!
This recipe was delicious!
Thank you for including me!