Irresistible Shrimp, Crab & Spinach Dip

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This Irresistible Shrimp, Crab & Spinach Dip is the ultimate appetizer for any gathering, game day, or cozy weekend indulgence. It’s rich, creamy, loaded with flavor, and beautifully balanced with tender seafood and fresh spinach. The golden-bubbly cheese topping and plump, seasoned shrimp make this dish as stunning as it is satisfying.

Imagine scooping into a warm, cheesy dip packed with succulent crab meat, buttery shrimp, and tender wilted spinach, all swimming in a dreamy blend of cream cheese and parmesan. Serve it with crispy baguette slices or crackers, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that’s impossible to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Shrimp, Crab & Spinach Dip

• It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for last-minute entertaining.
• Offers an elegant mix of flavors without being complicated.
• A perfect way to enjoy seafood in a cozy, comfort-food form.
• Great for feeding a group or making ahead for parties.
• Pairs well with wine, cocktails, or mocktails.

What Kind of Crab and Shrimp Should I Use?

For the best flavor and texture, use lump crab meat or backfin crab meat—avoid imitation if possible. It adds that sweet, delicate flavor that defines this dish. As for the shrimp, medium-sized peeled and deveined shrimp work great. A quick sear before topping the dip enhances the flavor and gives it a beautiful finish. Fresh or thawed-from-frozen both work well, just be sure to pat them dry before cooking.

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Ingredients for the Irresistible Shrimp, Crab & Spinach Dip

• Shrimp: Adds a juicy, savory bite that crowns the dish with flavor and texture.
• Crab Meat: The star of the dip, providing sweetness and richness that pairs beautifully with creamy cheese.
• Fresh Spinach: Brings a subtle earthy note and balances the richness with a pop of green.
• Cream Cheese: The creamy base that holds everything together and creates that luscious, melty texture.
• Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and helps lighten the dip.
• Mayonnaise: Rounds out the creaminess while adding a little richness.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully and gives that satisfying cheesy pull.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds depth and a salty, nutty flavor.
• Garlic: Essential for that aromatic base.
• Onion: Provides a subtle sweetness and builds flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens everything and cuts through the richness.
• Olive Oil or Butter: For sautéing and adding flavor to the shrimp and spinach.
• Salt, Pepper, and Red Pepper Flakes: Seasonings to enhance and balance all the flavors.

How To Make the Irresistible Shrimp, Crab & Spinach Dip

Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat a little olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and slightly golden. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Wilt the Spinach

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté minced garlic and diced onion until soft. Toss in the spinach and cook just until wilted. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, mozzarella, and parmesan. Stir until smooth. Add lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Step 4: Fold in the Seafood & Spinach

Gently fold in the crab meat, sautéed spinach mixture, and half of the cooked shrimp into the creamy cheese base.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Transfer everything to a baking dish. Top with the remaining shrimp and extra cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or veggie sticks. A squeeze of fresh lemon on top makes it even better!

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Serving and Storing This Shrimp, Crab & Spinach Dip

This dish serves 6 to 8 people, depending on portion size and accompaniments. It’s best served warm, straight from the oven while the cheese is bubbly and gooey. To store leftovers, let the dip cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven or microwave until hot and melty again.

If you’re planning ahead, you can prepare the dip up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Just bake it right before serving for that fresh, golden finish.

What to Serve With Irresistible Shrimp, Crab & Spinach Dip?

Toasted Baguette Slices

Crispy, chewy slices are perfect for scooping up all that cheesy seafood goodness.

Crackers or Crostini

Add a crunchy texture contrast with buttery crackers or rustic crostini.

Fresh Veggie Sticks

Cucumbers, celery, and bell peppers keep things light and refreshing.

Tortilla Chips

For a more casual feel, tortilla chips work great with this dip.

Lemon Wedges

Serve on the side for an optional zing that cuts through the richness.

Chilled White Wine

A crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the seafood.

Side Salad

A lightly dressed green salad makes a refreshing and simple companion.

Shrimp Cocktail

For seafood lovers, serve this dip alongside chilled shrimp cocktail to keep the theme going strong.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it a day in advance, store it covered in the fridge, and bake just before serving. It’s a great make-ahead party dish.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely. Just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out excess moisture to avoid a watery dip.

What’s the best crab to use for this dip?
Lump crab meat or backfin is ideal. Avoid imitation if possible for the best flavor and texture.

Can I make this dip spicy?
Definitely! Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to give it a kick.

Is this dip gluten-free?
The dip itself is gluten-free, but be mindful of what you serve it with. Choose gluten-free crackers or veggie sticks instead of bread.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer or seafood board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the cheese or lighten it up? Did you serve it with chips or toast?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.
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Conclusion

This Irresistible Shrimp, Crab & Spinach Dip is everything you want in a party dish: warm, cheesy, full of flavor, and simple to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a weekend indulgence, it delivers every time. With premium seafood, fresh greens, and loads of creamy goodness, it’s bound to be your new go-to appetizer.

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