Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip is basically my go-to answer for any time someone says, “What should I bring to the party?” (Okay, sometimes I just make it and eat half the bowl straight out of the oven, but you didn’t hear that from me.) You know when you want something cheesy and cozy but regular old spinach dip just sort of… doesn’t wow anyone? This is what you need. Shrimp, crab, and all that creamy goodness—yeah, it’s over the top, but that’s why people practically lick the bowl. If you’ve ever wondered how to nail this restaurant-style Crab Dip Appetizer at home without breaking a sweat, well, buckle up.
The Story Behind This Recipe
Hey, I’m Alexandraa! This Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip was built for real kitchens: simple steps, reliable results, and flavor that makes people ask for seconds. Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip is basically my go-to answer for any time someone says, “What should I bring to the party?” (Okay, sometimes I…
Crab Dip Appetizer
Here’s the thing. A lot of folks just toss shrimp and crab on top of a dip and call it gourmet. Uh, nope. For a full-on crab dip appetizer that’s better than the local “seafood joint” (I said what I said), you want those flavors tangled up in every single bite. Mix that shrimp and crab right into your creamy base—don’t be shy. The spinach? Sneak it in there for some green, because hey, at least it looks healthy-ish. Honestly, this dish disappears at game day parties, summer barbeques, awkward office gatherings (don’t ask how I know), you name it.
My personal tip: skip the dried parsley. Use real, chopped stuff. It’s a world of difference. And you can totally experiment with add-ins like a squeeze of lemon or extra garlic. Someone always asks for the recipe, swear.
I’ve tried loads of dips from store-bought to homemade, but this one is pure magic. My friends actually argue over the last scoop. If you want a showstopping appetizer, look no further! — Tara S., Baltimore
What Ingredients Do I Need?
Alright, let’s keep it simple. No one wants a grocery list as long as their arm. For this Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip, you’re shopping for:
- 8 oz block of cream cheese, softened (don’t use the weird whipped tubs, trust me)
- Half a cup of mayonnaise—real stuff, not salad dressing
- 1/2 cup sour cream (full-fat is best, let’s not kid ourselves)
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped small
- 1 cup crab meat (the refrigerated kind if you can swing it, lump or backfin)
- 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed super dry (or go wild with fresh if you hate convenience)
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan (for flavor punch)
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice from half a lemon (optional, but that zing, wow)
- Salt and black pepper, taste as you go
A note: if you want this as rich as a five-star restaurant, spring for good crab. Past that, the rest you probably already have. 
How to Make Spinach Dip with Cream Cheese
Look, I’m not fussy. But when it comes to the spinach dip with cream cheese part, it’s actually easy to mess up if you rush. Here’s how I do it.
First, let that cream cheese hit room temp—no one likes weird lumps. Mix it with mayo and sour cream until it looks smooth and fluffy. I use a fork or wooden spoon, nothing too fancy. Next, toss in your garlic, mozzarella, parmesan, spinach, and lemon juice. Stir again. Now add all the shrimp and crab. You want them mixed in so you get a little of both in every scoop. Season it with salt and pepper. Taste it! Adjust what you want.
Scoop the lot into a baking dish. Bake till bubbly and golden on top. I usually do 350 F for about 25 minutes, but honestly, just check when it smells amazing and the edges start to brown a bit. Scoop some out with a chip and—okay, yeah, you just nailed it.
What to Serve with Spinach Dip
I’ve tested just about everything to serve with this Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip—my friends think I’m obsessed. Here’s what really works:
- Toasted baguette slices (crunchy, slightly chewy, best with warm dip)
- Pita chips or sturdy tortilla chips (not the super thin ones)
- Baby carrots for a healthier vibe (fool yourself a bit)
- Pretzel crisps (honestly underrated)
People also dunk celery or peppers, but I’m in the bread camp. There’s just something about cheesy seafood with a warm crusty bite. Try different dippers at your next get-together and see which one goes first.
Can You Make It Ahead?
Yes, yes, and YES. One of the best things about Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip is you can assemble everything the night before a party or lazy Sunday. Just mix it up, stick that covered dish in the fridge, and bake it before serving. If it seems extra thick when cold, let it sit out for ten minutes while the oven preheats.
Leftovers? Scoop them into a tortilla and microwave. You just made seafood quesadillas. Even cold, it’s not bad. This recipe is meant for prepping ahead—saves so much chaos the day of, and the flavors meld together even more. Win-win.
Common Questions
Q: Can I use imitation crab?
A: Yes, totally fine if you’re keeping it budget-friendly. I do it sometimes and no one complains.
Q: Can I freeze this spinach dip?
A: It’s not my #1 choice. Creamy dips sometimes get watery when thawed, you know?
Q: Is fresh spinach better than frozen?
A: Both work, but frozen is way easier and tastes just as good here.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Oven or microwave. Best with a little sprinkle of extra cheese on top.
Q: Do I have to use both shrimp and crab?
A: Nope, you can do just shrimp or just crab. I love the combo, though.
Dip In, Don’t Wait
So there you go—my not-so-secret recipe for the best Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip around. All you really need is some fresh seafood, a block of cream cheese, and maybe that bread you keep forgetting is in the freezer. It works for parties, holidays, or whenever you’re feeling a little “treat yourself” energy. If you’re a dip lover longing for new ideas, seriously, don’t skip this one.
Want more tweaks or tips? Check out this Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip | Blog | Wallace’s Garden … and don’t miss the actual ingredient list if you’re shopping: Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip Ingredients: 8 oz cream … for even more good details. Make it, share it, fight over the last bite—just promise you’ll come back and tell me how it went.
Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip
Ingredients Â
MethodÂ
- Let the cream cheese reach room temperature to avoid lumps.
- Mix the cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream until smooth and fluffy.
- Stir in minced garlic, mozzarella, parmesan, spinach, and lemon juice.
- Add the shrimp and crab meat, mixing well to incorporate.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish.
- Bake at 350 F for about 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Enjoy warm with your choice of dippers.
