Zesty Cajun Shrimp and Cream Cheese Delight
Dive into the rich and flavorful experience of our Zesty Cajun Shrimp and Cream Cheese Delight. This creamy dip combines succulent shrimp with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning, creamy cheese, and a hint of lemon to create the perfect party appetizer. Whether it's game day, a holiday gathering, or a casual get-together with friends, this dip is sure to impress. Served with crispy chips or fresh crackers, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings a taste of Louisiana to your table. Enjoy the satisfaction of homemade goodness with every bite!
N/A
Servings
300
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
Water
2 cups (Bring to boil)
Cajun or Creole Seasoning
4 teaspoons (To season shrimp and broth)
Small Shrimp
1 lb (Peeled, cooked and chilled)
Cream Cheese
1 lb (At room temperature)
Reserved Shrimp Broth
5 tablespoons (Strained from cooking shrimp)
Lemon Juice
2 tablespoons (Freshly squeezed)
Onion Powder
2 teaspoons (To season)
Hot Sauce
2 teaspoons (To taste)
Garlic Powder
1 teaspoon (To season)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (To taste)
Cayenne Pepper
1/2 teaspoon (To add heat)
Minced Green Onions
2 tablespoons (Freshly chopped)
Minced Parsley
2 tablespoons (Freshly chopped)
Instructions
1
In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water to a rolling boil.
2
Add 1 tablespoon of Cajun or Creole seasoning to the boiling water.
3
Carefully add the peeled shrimp to the pot, return to a boil, and simmer for about 2 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
4
Remove the shrimp, strain the broth, and reserve 5 tablespoons of the flavorful shrimp broth for later use.
5
Allow the shrimp to chill in the refrigerator. This step can be done a day ahead for enhanced flavor.
6
In a mixing bowl, combine the room temperature cream cheese, reserved shrimp broth, and lemon juice. Beat with a mixer or fork until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
7
Add the onion powder, hot sauce, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper. Continue to mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the dip is smooth.
8
Gently fold in the cooked, chilled shrimp, minced green onions, and fresh parsley until evenly distributed throughout the dip.
9
Transfer the dip to a serving dish and serve immediately with your choice of chips or crackers. For best flavor, allow the dip to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
20g
Fat
7.5g
Carbs
22.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Cajun Shrimp and Cream Cheese Delight?
It is a rich and flavorful creamy dip that combines succulent shrimp with bold Cajun seasoning, cream cheese, and a hint of lemon, perfect for parties.
How long does it take to cook the shrimp for this recipe?
The shrimp should be simmered for about 2 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.
Can I use Creole seasoning instead of Cajun seasoning?
Yes, the recipe allows for either Cajun or Creole seasoning to be used in the boiling water and for flavoring.
What should I do with the shrimp cooking liquid?
You should strain the broth and reserve 5 tablespoons to be mixed into the cream cheese base later.
Can I prepare any part of this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can cook and chill the shrimp a day ahead to enhance the flavor.
How should the cream cheese be prepared before mixing?
The cream cheese should be brought to room temperature to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency when beaten.
What are the primary seasonings used in the dip?
The dip is seasoned with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, cayenne pepper, and hot sauce.
Is this shrimp dip spicy?
Yes, it contains Cajun seasoning, hot sauce, and cayenne pepper, giving it a zesty and spicy kick.
What fresh herbs are included in the recipe?
The recipe calls for freshly chopped minced green onions and fresh parsley.
What is the recommended chilling time before serving?
For the best flavor, allow the dip to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
What should I serve with this Cajun shrimp dip?
It is best served with crispy chips or fresh crackers.
How many calories are in a serving of this dip?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
What is the fat content of this recipe?
This recipe contains 20g of fat per serving.
How much protein does this shrimp dip provide?
The dip is high in protein, providing 22.5g per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in one serving?
There are 7.5g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much shrimp do I need for this recipe?
You will need 1 lb of small shrimp, peeled and cooked.
What is the total number of ingredients required?
There are 13 ingredients in total for this recipe.
How much cream cheese is used in the recipe?
The recipe requires 1 lb of cream cheese.
Do I need fresh lemon juice?
Yes, the recipe specifies 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
What type of shrimp should I use?
Small shrimp are recommended as they fold easily into the dip.
How much Cajun seasoning is added to the water?
Add 1 tablespoon (or part of the 4 teaspoons total mentioned in the ingredients) to the boiling water to season the shrimp.
What gives the dip its smooth texture?
Beating the room temperature cream cheese with the reserved shrimp broth and lemon juice creates the smooth base.
Can I adjust the heat level of this dip?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference.
Is this dish considered Louisiana cuisine?
Yes, it is inspired by Louisiana flavors and categorized under Louisiana cuisine.
How much garlic powder is used?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.
How do I ensure the shrimp are properly cooked?
Boil them until they are pink and opaque, which usually takes about 2 minutes.
What is the primary preparation for the green onions?
They should be finely minced before being folded into the dip.
Is this dip suitable for game day?
Yes, it is described as a perfect appetizer for game day, holiday gatherings, or casual get-togethers.
How much salt should I add?
The recipe suggests 1/2 teaspoon of salt, or to taste.
Should the shrimp be warm when added to the cream cheese?
No, the shrimp should be cooked and then chilled before being folded into the dip.