Ree Drummond has a knack for creating recipes that are both comforting and perfect for sharing, and her shrimp dip is no exception. This creamy, savory appetizer combines tender shrimp with cream cheese, fresh herbs, and a hint of spice.
It’s an easy make-ahead dish that works for game days, holiday gatherings, or any time you need a delicious crowd-pleaser. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a staple on party tables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This shrimp dip is the ultimate blend of creamy and savory, with juicy bites of shrimp in every scoop. It’s versatile—you can serve it hot or cold, with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables.
Best of all, it comes together in about 20 minutes and can be made ahead, giving you more time to enjoy your guests.
What You’ll Need
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Crackers, bread, or vegetables, for serving
Pro Tips
- Use small or medium shrimp for the best bite-sized texture in the dip.
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for smooth mixing.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste—add more Old Bay for a bolder flavor.
- If serving hot, bake in a shallow dish until bubbling and golden.
- Garnish just before serving for the freshest look and flavor.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Baking dish (if serving hot)
Substitutions & Variations
- Lighter version: Use light cream cheese and mayonnaise.
- Extra flavor: Stir in shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese before baking.
- Seafood twist: Replace some shrimp with lump crab meat.
- Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Herb swap: Use dill or chives instead of parsley.
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the dip up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. If serving hot, bake just before serving.
Cold shrimp dip can be served straight from the fridge, but allow it to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes for easier scooping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Shrimp
Chop the cooked shrimp into small pieces and set aside.
2. Combine Base Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Beat until smooth.
3. Add Seasonings
Mix in lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Fold in Shrimp and Herbs
Gently stir in the chopped shrimp and fresh parsley until evenly distributed.
5. Taste and Adjust
Taste the dip and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve Cold or Hot
For cold dip, transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with parsley. For hot dip, transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until bubbling.
7. Present and Enjoy
Serve with crackers, bread slices, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Leftovers & Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat baked dip in the oven until warmed through.
Avoid freezing, as the creamy texture can separate when thawed.
Nutrition & Benefits
Shrimp is naturally low in fat and high in protein, making it a satisfying ingredient for a crowd-friendly appetizer. It’s also a source of essential nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12.
While this is an indulgent dip, using fresh herbs and controlling the seasoning means you can make it just right for your tastes.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use canned shrimp?
Yes, but fresh or frozen cooked shrimp gives a better flavor and texture.
2. How can I make it spicier?
Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced fresh jalapeños.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based cream cheese and mayonnaise alternatives.
4. Should I serve it hot or cold?
Either works—hot for a gooey texture, cold for a refreshing bite.
5. Can I prepare it in individual portions?
Yes, serve in small ramekins for easy, mess-free dipping.
A Crowd Favorite, Pioneer Woman Style
This Pioneer Woman shrimp dip is proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients to create something unforgettable. It’s flavorful, creamy, and adaptable to suit any occasion.
Whether you serve it warm from the oven or chilled from the fridge, it’s guaranteed to be one of the first dishes to disappear from the table.
