Name: Shrimp Dip Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: PT-489340H1M19S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 (8-oz.) packages cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tsp. lemon zest; 1 Tbsp. lemon juice; 1/2 tsp. salt; 3 green onions, thinly sliced; 1 Tbsp. chopped parsley, plus more to serve; 8 oz. cooked shrimp, shells and tails removed, chopped; 1 cup cocktail sauce; Crackers, to serve

If you’re looking for an appetizer that will wow your guests without a ton of fuss, you’re going to love this Shrimp Dip Recipe. I first made this for a casual get-together, and it immediately became the highlight of the party. It’s creamy, zesty, and bursting with shrimp flavor — plus, it’s super simple to whip up. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just want something impressive but easy, this shrimp dip is going to be your new go-to!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy and Flavorful: The cream cheese base pairs perfectly with the tang of lemon and the freshness of parsley for a rich but balanced dip.
Quick and Easy: You can have this dip ready in under 15 minutes — perfect for last-minute entertaining or a snack fix.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether you love it with crackers, veggies, or even as a spread on bagels, this shrimp dip delivers.
Crowd-Pleaser: I’ve served this to friends and family countless times, and it’s always the first thing to disappear!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient brings something special to this shrimp dip recipe. From the tangy lemon zest that brightens the cream cheese to the fresh crunch of green onions, these components come together in a perfect harmony. When shopping, make sure your cream cheese is well-softened — it makes mixing much easier!

Flat lay of plump cooked shrimp, fresh green onions sliced thin, bright lemon zest and wedges of fresh lemon, vibrant chopped parsley, creamy softened cream cheese dollops, smooth mayonnaise swirl, and a small pool of rich red cocktail sauce, all beautifully arranged with scattered parsley leaves and lemon slices for color contrast, placed on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Shrimp Dinner, Shrimp Dip, Easy Shrimp Appetizer, Seafood Dip, Party Snack Recipes

Cream Cheese: Opt for full-fat for the creamiest texture, and be sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
Mayonnaise: Adds a touch of richness and helps keep the dip smooth.
Lemon Zest and Lemon Juice: These bring fresh, citrusy brightness that really keeps the dip from feeling heavy.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors—don’t skip it!
Green Onions: Thinly sliced for a subtle onion flavor and a bit of crunch.
Parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of color both mixed in and sprinkled on top.
Cooked Shrimp: Use peeled and deveined, chopped into bite-sized pieces for perfect distribution.
Cocktail Sauce: The classic topping that adds a zesty kick and beautiful contrast.
Crackers: Your dipping vehicle—choose sturdy types that won’t break under the weight of the dip.

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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love tweaking this shrimp dip recipe based on the mood or the occasion. Feel free to make it your own! You’ll find that little changes can totally refresh the flavor while keeping the same creamy, comforting vibe.

Smoked Salmon Swap: I discovered this trick when I ran out of shrimp—swap in smoked salmon for a rich, smoky twist that works beautifully with the lemon and cream cheese base.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or some finely diced jalapeños if you like your dip with a bit of heat—my family goes crazy for this version when game day rolls around.
Dill and Cucumber: For a fresher, lighter dip, toss in chopped dill and cucumber; it brightens the creaminess in a refreshing way, especially during warmer months.
Low-Fat Option: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and light mayo to make it a little lighter, though it won’t be quite as rich and decadent.

How to Make Shrimp Dip Recipe

Step 1: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Base

Start by softening the cream cheese so it blends perfectly without any lumps. I like to let it sit at room temperature for about half an hour before mixing. Then, in your stand mixer (or with a hand mixer), beat the cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt together on medium speed for about a minute. You’ll notice the mixture turns smooth and fluffy—this texture is key to that luscious dip you’ll crave. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides as you go, so everything gets fully incorporated.

Step 2: Fold in the Fresh Ingredients

Next, add the thinly sliced green onions and chopped parsley to your creamy base. Mix on low speed just long enough to combine—overmixing can bruise the herbs and dull their flavor. I usually finish mixing by hand with a rubber spatula, gently folding so that the herbs and green onions stay bright and fresh.

Step 3: Prep and Add the Shrimp

Whether your shrimp are already peeled or not, get them ready by removing tails and chopping into bite-sized pieces. If your shrimp are pre-cooked, this step is quick! Folding the chopped shrimp in at the end lets them stay tender and juicy without getting lost in the mix. Use a rubber spatula to gently combine so you keep those little nuggets distinct.

Step 4: Chill and Serve with Flair

Once everything is combined, transfer your dip to a shallow bowl and smooth out the top. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour—this chilling step is crucial because it lets the flavors marry and the dip firm up just enough. When you’re ready to serve, top with a generous drizzle of cocktail sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Pair it with your favorite crackers, and watch how fast this dip disappears!

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Pro Tips for Making Shrimp Dip Recipe

Room Temperature Cream Cheese: This makes your mixture silky and smooth without lumps—trust me, it’s worth the wait.
Don’t Overmix Herbs: Mixing gently keeps the herbs fresh and vibrant instead of turning them mushy and brown.
Use Good-Quality Cooked Shrimp: Flavor starts with quality; fresh or well-thawed cooked shrimp make all the difference.
Chill to Build Flavor: Giving the dip at least an hour in the fridge lets those bright lemon and herb flavors truly shine.

How to Serve Shrimp Dip Recipe

Garnishes

I like to keep it simple and elegant with a few whole parsley leaves sprinkled on top along with that classic cocktail sauce. Sometimes, I sneak a little extra lemon zest on top to amp up the citrus aroma just before serving. It adds a bright pop of color and dimension that guests always notice.

Side Dishes

This shrimp dip goes especially well with crunchy crackers or toasted baguette slices. For a lighter contrast, serve alongside sliced cucumbers, carrots, or bell peppers. If you’re hosting, adding a charcuterie board with cheeses, olives, and nuts alongside the dip makes for a fantastic spread everyone reaches for.

Creative Ways to Present

One time I served this in individual small ramekins topped with a shrimp garnish and microgreens for a fancy party—it felt so special and made guests feel pampered. Another fun idea is hollowing out mini bell peppers or cherry tomatoes and filling them with the dip for an elegant bite-sized option. Presentation can be as simple or fancy as you want!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your dip, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and keep them refrigerated. I’ve found it keeps beautifully for up to 3 days. The flavors sometimes get even better as they settle in the fridge overnight, so don’t hesitate to make it ahead of time.

Freezing

I usually don’t freeze this shrimp dip because the texture of cream cheese and shrimp changes a bit after thawing. If you do freeze, expect some separation and a softer consistency — but it can still work in a pinch for cooked dishes or spreads.

Reheating

This dip is best served cold, so I recommend eating leftovers chilled. If you want it a little softer, just let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving again. Reheating isn’t necessary and can make the shrimp tough.

FAQs

Can I make this Shrimp Dip Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, preparing this dip a few hours or even the day before helps the flavors meld beautifully. Just cover and refrigerate—it’ll be ready to impress whenever your guests arrive.
What can I substitute for cocktail sauce if I don’t have any?

If you don’t have cocktail sauce on hand, a simple mix of ketchup and horseradish does the trick, or you can try a spicy mayonnaise or a squeeze of fresh lemon for a lighter topping.
Can I use fresh shrimp instead of cooked?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook and cool them first. Simply boil or sauté fresh shrimp until pink and firm, then chill before chopping and folding into the dip.
Is this Shrimp Dip Recipe good for parties?

Definitely! It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to double for larger groups, and it pairs well with all kinds of dippers, making it perfect for casual or fancy events.
Can I make a low-carb version of this shrimp dip?

Yes, this recipe is naturally low-carb thanks to the cream cheese and shrimp base. Just skip higher-carb crackers and serve with fresh veggies or low-carb chips instead.

Final Thoughts

There’s something about this shrimp dip recipe that feels both classic and fresh every time I make it. Whether it’s a relaxed night in with friends or a special occasion, it always hits the spot. I hope you’ll give it a try because once you do, it might just become that dish you’re known for—easy to make, impossible not to love.