If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that packs a punch, look no further than this Hot Louisiana Shrimp Dip. It’s bold, creamy, spicy, and loaded with juicy shrimp—everything you want in a Southern-inspired dip that disappears the second it hits the table.
Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Louisiana cuisine, this dip is the perfect balance of creamy and spicy. It combines tender shrimp with cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and a hit of Cajun seasoning for a rich and addictive flavor profile.
This dish is all about layers of flavor. There’s the subtle sweetness of the shrimp, the creamy tang from sour cream and cream cheese, the sharpness of cheddar, and the warm, smoky kick from spices like paprika and cayenne.
It’s a great option for game day, holidays, or any time you want to impress guests with something bold and satisfying. You can serve it with sliced baguette, crackers, tortilla chips, or even fresh veggies.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make. Just sauté the shrimp, mix up the creamy base, stir everything together, and bake until bubbling and golden brown on top.
This dip is versatile too. You can easily adjust the heat level by changing up the spice mix or adding diced jalapeños. And while it’s fantastic as-is, you can also stir in extras like chopped bell peppers or corn for even more Southern flair.
One of the keys to making this dip unforgettable is using fresh shrimp. It really enhances the flavor and texture. But frozen, thawed shrimp will work in a pinch.
Another pro tip: shred your own cheese. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can make the dip grainy rather than smooth.
The texture is rich and velvety, with chunks of shrimp in every bite. It’s hot, cheesy, and impossible to resist.
Leftovers (if you have any!) reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave. You can even repurpose it into a filling for stuffed mushrooms or quesadillas.
Want to make it ahead? Just mix everything up, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
From casual hangouts to formal gatherings, this shrimp dip fits in anywhere. It’s Southern hospitality in a skillet.
You’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. It’s reliable, flavorful, and always a hit.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for something indulgent to snack on, this Hot Louisiana Shrimp Dip is guaranteed to deliver.
Servings: 6–8
Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped shrimp and Cajun seasoning. Cook for 2–3 minutes until shrimp is just cooked. Remove from heat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Stir in shrimp, cheddar, Monterey Jack, and green onions.
- Spread mixture into a small baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
- Serve warm with crackers, chips, or toasted bread.
Tips:
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor and texture.
- Adjust spice level to taste by increasing or reducing cayenne.
- Garnish with extra green onions or a sprinkle of paprika for color.
- Great with toasted baguette slices or crispy pita chips.
- Can be made ahead and baked just before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Bold Louisiana flavor
- Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with shrimp
- Easy to make and always a hit
- Customizable heat level
- Perfect for parties, holidays, and game day
Summary: This Hot Louisiana Shrimp Dip is spicy, creamy, and packed with flavor. Made with juicy shrimp, Cajun spices, and lots of cheese, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion.
