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Easy Chilled Shrimp Dip for Parties - A Creamy Crowd-Pleaser

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 1 pound): Medium or small shrimp work best. Thaw if frozen, then pat dry.
  • Cream cheese (8 ounces), softened: Creates a rich, smooth base.
  • Sour cream (3/4 cup): Lightens the texture and adds tang.
  • Mayonnaise (1/3 cup): Adds silkiness and rounds out the flavor.
  • Lemon juice (2 tablespoons) + zest (1 teaspoon): Fresh, bright acidity.
  • Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon): Deep, savory notes.
  • Old Bay seasoning (1 teaspoon): Classic seafood flavor; adjust to taste.
  • Hot sauce (1/2 to 1 teaspoon): Optional, for a gentle kick.
  • Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): A little background savory boost.
  • Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the creaminess.
  • Fresh dill or parsley (2 tablespoons), finely chopped: Herbaceous finish.
  • Chives or green onions (2 tablespoons), finely sliced: Fresh bite and color.
  • Kosher salt and black pepper: To taste.
  • Optional garnishes: Extra chopped shrimp, dill, lemon zest, or a sprinkle of paprika.
  • For serving: Crackers, pita chips, tortilla chips, crostini, cucumber slices, celery, bell peppers, or endive leaves.

Method
 

  1. Prep the shrimp: If using frozen cooked shrimp, thaw fully in the fridge, then pat very dry. Chop into small, bite-size pieces. Reserve a few pieces for garnish if you like.
  2. Mix the creamy base: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sour cream and mayonnaise, and mix until blended and fluffy.
  3. Season it up: Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, Worcestershire, Old Bay, hot sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
  4. Fold in the shrimp and herbs: Add chopped shrimp, dill or parsley, and chives. Fold gently until evenly distributed without mashing the shrimp.
  5. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 24 hours). Chilling helps the flavors meld and firms the texture for scooping.
  6. Finish and serve: Stir, taste, and adjust seasoning. If it’s too thick, loosen with a spoonful of sour cream. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with reserved shrimp, herbs, and a sprinkle of paprika or extra lemon zest.
  7. Pair with dippers: Serve with a mix of crunchy crackers, chips, and crisp veggie sticks. Provide a small spoon for easy scooping.