Imagine the sizzling aroma of spicy shrimp mingling with the creamy tang of cheese, all baked in a fresh sourdough bowl. This spicy Louisiana shrimp dip is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. The heat of cajun seasoning, paired with the sweetness of shrimp and the richness of cream cheese, creates an unforgettable culinary experience.
This recipe uses certain special ingredients like seapak shrimp scampi and cajun seasoning. Seapak shrimp scampi is a ready-to-cook shrimp product available in the frozen section of most grocery stores. If unavailable, you can substitute it with any cooked shrimp. Cajun seasoning is a spice blend with a southern kick, usually consisting of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, pepper, and oregano. If you can't find it in your local supermarket, a quick online search will give you an easy recipe to make it at home.
Ingredients for Spicy Louisiana Shrimp Dip
Chives: These are used to add a subtle onion-like flavor. Fresh chives are ideal but dried can be used if fresh are not available.
Red bell pepper: Adds a sweet, slightly tangy flavor and a vibrant color.
Mayonnaise: Provides creaminess and tanginess to the dip.
Cream cheese: This is the base of the dip, providing a rich and creamy texture.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the dip.
Seapak shrimp scampi: The star ingredient of this dish, shrimp adds a sweet, sea-like taste.
Lemon juice: Brightens up the flavors of the dip.
Lemon: The zest of the lemon is used to add an extra layer of freshness.
Cajun seasoning: Gives the dish a spicy kick.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds a deep, savory flavor to the dish.
Sourdough bowl: Used as the serving vessel for the dip. Sourdough is chosen for its tangy flavor.
One reader, Korney Romine says:
This spicy Louisiana shrimp dip recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are bold and the shrimp adds a delightful twist. It's a hit at parties and always gets rave reviews. The creamy texture and zesty kick make it a must-try for any seafood lover.
Techniques Required for Spicy Louisiana Shrimp Dip Recipe
How to defrost the shrimp: Place the shrimp in a bowl and leave it in the refrigerator for a few hours until fully thawed. Alternatively, place the shrimp in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed.
How to chop the shrimp: After defrosting, drain the shrimp well and then chop them into small, ½-inch dice using a sharp knife and a cutting board.
How to scoop out the sourdough loaf: Cut the top off the sourdough loaf and then carefully scoop out the insides, leaving the walls of the bread about ½-inch thick. Use a serrated knife to make the process easier and ensure the bread holds the dip well.
How to serve: Place the dip into the prepared sourdough bowl and bake it in the oven until bubbly and the bread is nicely browned. Serve the spicy Louisiana shrimp dip with crackers or baguette slices for dipping.
How To Make Spicy Louisiana Shrimp Dip
Having people over? Serve some crackers or toasted bread with flavorful Louisiana shrimp dip. Creamy, packed with cajun flavors, this dip will be a hit!
Serves:
Ingredients
- ¼cupchives,or minced green onions
- 1red bell pepper,minced
- ¼cupmayonnaise
- 8ozcream cheese
- ¼cupparmesan cheese
- 12ozSeaPak Shrimp Scampi
- 2tbsplemon juice
- 1lemon,zested
- 1tbspcajun seasoning
- 2tspWorcestershire sauce
- 1sourdough bowl
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
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Defrost the shrimp, drain well, and chop the shrimp into ½-inch dice.
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In a large bowl, add the chives, bell pepper, mayonnaise, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, shrimp, lemon juice and zest, cajun seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce and stir until combined.
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Cut the top of the sourdough loaf off the bread.
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Scoop out the insides until the walls of the bread are ½-inch thick.
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Put the dip into the bread bowl.
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Bake in the oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until the mixture is bubbly and the bread is nicely browned.
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Serve with crackers or baguette slices.
Nutrition
- Calories: 246.22kcal
- Fat: 12.32g
- Saturated Fat: 5.01g
- Trans Fat: 0.01g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.99g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.96g
- Carbohydrates: 23.57g
- Fiber: 1.30g
- Sugar: 3.20g
- Protein: 10.61g
- Cholesterol: 60.49mg
- Sodium: 550.64mg
- Calcium: 99.01mg
- Potassium: 151.09mg
- Iron: 1.99mg
- Vitamin A: 109.22µg
- Vitamin C: 16.96mg
Technique Tip for Making Spicy Louisiana Shrimp Dip Recipe
When preparing the shrimp, ensure to pat them dry after defrosting and before chopping. This will help to prevent any excess moisture from diluting the flavors of the dip. Additionally, when scooping out the insides of the sourdough loaf, be careful not to puncture the bottom or sides. This will ensure the dip stays contained within the bread bowl during baking. Lastly, for an extra kick, consider adding a bit more cajun seasoning to taste. Remember, it's always easier to add more seasoning than it is to remove it, so start with a smaller amount and adjust as needed.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Shrimp Dip Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup.
Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors and mandolines to speed up prep work.
Batch cooking: Make larger quantities of the recipe and freeze the extra portions for future quick meals.
Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes and save time on improvisation.
Organized workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you cook to avoid wasting time searching for utensils and ingredients.
Substitute Ingredients For Spicy Louisiana Shrimp Dip Recipe
- chives - Substitute with green onions: Green onions have a similar mild onion flavor and can provide a fresh, aromatic element to the dip.
- red bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell peppers have a slightly sweeter flavor and can add a pop of color to the dip.
- mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a creamy texture and tangy flavor while reducing the overall fat content.
- cream cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese can offer a lighter texture and a slightly tangy flavor to the dip.
- parmesan cheese - Substitute with asiago cheese: Asiago cheese has a similar nutty and savory flavor, which can complement the other ingredients in the dip.
- seapak shrimp scampi - Substitute with fresh shrimp sautéed in garlic and butter: Using fresh shrimp sautéed in garlic and butter can provide a homemade touch and a more delicate flavor to the dip.
- lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can offer a slightly acidic and tangy flavor to the dip, similar to lemon juice.
- cajun seasoning - Substitute with Old Bay seasoning: Old Bay seasoning can provide a similar blend of herbs and spices, adding a distinct flavor to the dip.
- worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory and umami-rich flavor to the dip, similar to Worcestershire sauce.
- sourdough bowl - Substitute with pumpernickel bread bowl: Pumpernickel bread can offer a rich, earthy flavor and a sturdy base for serving the dip.
Best Way to Present Spicy Louisiana Shrimp Dip
Elevate the bread bowl: Present the shrimp dip in a hollowed-out sourdough bread bowl, ensuring it is neatly and evenly filled to the brim.
Garnish with fresh chives: Sprinkle finely chopped chives over the top of the dip to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Arrange with precision: Carefully place the accompanying crackers or baguette slices around the bread bowl in an organized and visually appealing manner.
Incorporate a touch of elegance: Consider serving the dip on a wooden or marble platter to add a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Highlight the shrimp: Arrange a few whole shrimp from the scampi on top of the dip to showcase the star ingredient and add visual interest.
Add a citrus twist: Place a few thin slices of lemon on the platter to add a vibrant and refreshing element to the presentation.
Consider the color contrast: Choose a platter or serving dish that complements the colors of the dip and garnishes, creating a visually appealing contrast.
Emphasize the Louisiana flair: Consider incorporating a small decorative fleur-de-lis or another symbol associated with Louisiana cuisine into the presentation for a thematic touch.
Essential Tools for Making Spicy Louisiana Shrimp Dip Recipe
- Oven: Used for baking and roasting dishes.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Knife: Essential for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients.
- Mixing bowl: Used for combining and mixing ingredients.
- Baking sheet: Utilized for baking and roasting various dishes.
- Spatula: Helps in flipping and turning ingredients while cooking.
- Grater: Used for grating cheese, vegetables, and other ingredients.
- Zester: Used to extract the zest from citrus fruits.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients.
- Aluminum foil: Used for covering dishes and wrapping food for cooking.
- Serving platter: Used for presenting and serving the prepared dish.
- Oven mitts: Protects hands when handling hot dishes and cookware.
- Bread knife: Specifically designed for slicing bread and bread bowls.
- Large spoon: Used for stirring and serving the shrimp dip.
- Baking dish: Used for baking and serving the shrimp dip.
- Tongs: Helps in handling and serving the baked shrimp dip.
How To Store and Freeze Spicy Louisiana Shrimp Dip
To store leftover spicy louisiana shrimp dip, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld and intensify over time, making it even more delicious.
If you want to freeze the dip, prepare it without baking and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Cover the surface of the dip with plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals from forming, then seal the container tightly. Freeze for up to 2 months.
To bake the frozen dip, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, transfer the dip to a sourdough bowl or a baking dish and bake as directed in the recipe, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through and bubbly.
If you have already baked the dip and want to freeze the leftovers, allow the dip to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Cover the surface with plastic wrap and seal the container tightly. Freeze for up to 1 month.
To reheat the frozen baked dip, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Transfer the dip to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until heated through and bubbly. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly.
When storing or freezing the dip, make sure to label the container with the date and contents to keep track of its freshness. Always use your best judgment and discard the dip if it shows any signs of spoilage or has been stored for longer than the recommended time.
How To Reheat Leftover Spicy Louisiana Shrimp Dip
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover spicy louisiana shrimp dip in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This method helps to maintain the texture and flavor of the dip while ensuring it's evenly heated.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Transfer the leftover dip to a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the dip is heated through and the cheese is melted. Be careful not to overheat the dip, as it may cause the shrimp to become rubbery and the cheese to separate.
If you have a slow cooker or crockpot, you can use it to reheat the dip. Place the leftover dip in the slow cooker and heat it on low for 1-2 hours, or until the dip is heated through and the cheese is melted. Stir the dip occasionally to ensure even heating. This method is perfect for keeping the dip warm during parties or gatherings.
For a crispy twist, spread the leftover dip on slices of baguette or crackers, and place them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Keep a close eye on the dip to prevent burning. This method creates a delicious and crunchy appetizer that's perfect for snacking.
Random Fact About Spicy Louisiana Shrimp Dip Recipe
Louisiana shrimp dip is a popular appetizer in the southern United States. It is often served at parties and gatherings, and its spicy and flavorful nature makes it a hit with seafood lovers. This dip is a great way to showcase the delicious flavors of Louisiana cuisine and is perfect for entertaining guests.
Is Making Spicy Louisiana Shrimp Dip at Home Cost-Effective?
This spicy Louisiana shrimp dip recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The main cost lies in the shrimp scampi and cream cheese, but the other ingredients are relatively affordable. The dip is rich and flavorful, making it a satisfying treat. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe a solid 8 for its taste and versatility. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25, making it a reasonable option for a special occasion or gathering.
Is This Shrimp Dip Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This spicy Louisiana shrimp dip recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:
- The recipe is high in fat content, with ingredients like mayonnaise, cream cheese, and parmesan cheese.
- The sodium content is likely to be high, considering the use of Cajun seasoning and Worcestershire sauce.
- The recipe lacks significant amounts of fiber or other nutrient-dense ingredients.
However, the inclusion of shrimp does provide a good source of lean protein, and the red bell pepper adds some vitamin C to the mix.
To make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste, consider the following modifications:
- Swap out the full-fat cream cheese for a reduced-fat or Greek yogurt-based alternative.
- Use a light mayonnaise or replace it with additional Greek yogurt.
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the dip, such as adding diced onions, carrots, or celery for added fiber and nutrients.
- Opt for a whole-grain bread bowl or serve the dip with whole-grain crackers or vegetable sticks instead of white bread.
- Reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning and Worcestershire sauce to lower the sodium content, and replace some of the salt with herbs and spices like garlic powder, paprika, or thyme for added flavor.
Editor's Thoughts on This Spicy Shrimp Dip Recipe
This spicy Louisiana shrimp dip recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of creamy cream cheese, zesty lemon, and bold Cajun seasoning creates a rich and savory base, while the addition of shrimp adds a delightful seafood twist. The use of red bell pepper and chives brings a pop of color and freshness to the dip. Serving it in a sourdough bowl not only adds a rustic charm but also provides a delicious vessel for scooping up the dip. Overall, this recipe is a perfect choice for a flavorful and indulgent appetizer that will surely impress your guests.
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Why trust this Spicy Louisiana Shrimp Dip Recipe:
This recipe is a must-try for any seafood lover. With the use of fresh shrimp scampi and a blend of cajun seasoning and worcestershire sauce, it promises an explosion of flavor. The addition of chives and red bell pepper adds a refreshing crunch, while the creamy combination of mayonnaise and cream cheese ensures a rich and indulgent texture. The finishing touch of parmesan cheese and lemon juice brings a zesty kick. Trust this recipe for a mouthwatering, crowd-pleasing dip that's perfect for any gathering.
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