Spicy Cajun Shrimp Dip – A Creamy, Zesty Crowd-Pleaser!
This Cajun Shrimp Dip is a bold, creamy, and irresistibly spicy appetizer that’s perfect for parties, game days, or cozy nights in. Inspired by Louisiana flavors, it combines succulent shrimp, smoky Cajun spices, cream cheese, and melty cheese for a dip that’s rich, zesty, and packed with flavor. Serve it warm with crusty bread or tortilla chips, and watch it disappear in minutes!
What makes this dip special? It’s the balance of heat from the Cajun seasoning, the sweetness of the shrimp, and the luxurious texture from the cream cheese and sour cream. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes—making it a go-to for last-minute entertaining!
Why This Cajun Shrimp Dip Recipe Works
Quick & Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of baking, this dip comes together faster than most appetizers. No fancy techniques required—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
Customizable Heat: Love spice? Add extra Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce. Prefer it mild? Reduce the seasoning and skip the cayenne. The recipe adapts to your taste.
Crowd-Favorite Flavors: The combination of garlic, bell peppers, and Worcestershire sauce adds depth, while the cheese creates that perfect gooey pull everyone loves.
What’s In Cajun Shrimp Dip?
- Shrimp: Fresh or frozen medium shrimp (peeled and deveined) provide sweet, tender bites.
- Cream Cheese & Sour Cream: The creamy base that makes the dip luxuriously smooth.
- Cajun Seasoning: A blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne for that signature smoky heat.
- Bell Peppers & Onion: Add crunch and balance the richness.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A splash enhances umami depth.
- Monterey Jack Cheese: Melts beautifully for a stretchy, golden top.
How To Make Cajun Shrimp Dip
This recipe is as simple as sautéing the shrimp and veggies, mixing everything together, and baking until bubbly. Here’s the step-by-step:
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
- Pat shrimp dry and toss with 1 tsp Cajun seasoning.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Cook shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until pink. Chop into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
- In the same skillet, cook diced bell peppers and onion until soft (3-4 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Step 3: Mix the Dip
- In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, remaining Cajun seasoning, Worcestershire, and lemon juice. Fold in shrimp, veggies, and half the cheese.
Step 4: Bake
- Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until bubbly. Broil for 1-2 minutes for a golden top.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with sliced green onions and serve warm with bread, crackers, or veggie sticks.
Sides for Cajun Shrimp Dip
- Baguette Slices: Toasted for crunch.
- Tortilla Chips: Classic for scooping.
- Celery & Carrot Sticks: A fresh, low-carb option.
- Pretzel Bites: Salty contrast to the spice.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I Make This Dip Ahead?
Yes! Assemble the dip (without baking), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding 2-3 extra minutes if cold.
Can I Use Canned Shrimp?
Fresh or frozen shrimp are best for texture, but drained canned shrimp will work in a pinch.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Other Recipes To Try
- Crawfish Étouffée Dip: A Louisiana twist with rich roux and tender crawfish.
- Jalapeño Popper Dip: Creamy, cheesy, with a crispy panko topping.
- Smoked Gouda Crab Dip: Elegant and smoky with lump crab meat.
- Boudin Dip: A spicy Cajun sausage and rice dip (unusual but delicious!).
Spicy Cajun Shrimp Dip
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil divided
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning divided
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper finely diced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper finely diced
- 1/4 cup onion finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 8 oz 225g cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded (divided)
- 2 green onions sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep Shrimp: Toss shrimp with 1 tsp Cajun seasoning. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high. Cook shrimp 1-2 minutes per side until pink. Chop into small pieces.
- Sauté Veggies: In the same skillet, heat remaining oil. Cook bell peppers and onion for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add garlic; cook 30 seconds.
- Mix Dip: In a bowl, beat cream cheese, sour cream, remaining Cajun seasoning, Worcestershire, and lemon juice until smooth. Fold in shrimp, veggies, and 1/2 cup cheese.
- Bake: Spread into a greased 9-inch baking dish. Top with remaining cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until bubbly. Broil 1-2 minutes for browning.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions. Serve warm with bread or chips.
Notes
- Spice Level: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne for extra heat.
- Cheese Sub: Pepper Jack or cheddar work too.
- Make Ahead: Refrigerate unbaked dip for up to 24 hours.
- Freezing: Not recommended (dairy may separate).
- Shrimp Size: Larger shrimp can be used; chop after cooking.
Nutrition
Dig into this spicy, cheesy delight and let us know how you liked it in the comments!