Aunt Edna'S Shrimp Dip
A creamy, tangy shrimp dip with a hint of heat and paprika, perfect for parties and served with crackers for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the cream cheese, mayonnaise, Tabasco, lemon juice, diced onion, boiled shrimp, and paprika.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator.
- Serve in a pretty dish with Ritz crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whipped cream cheese instead of regular. If you prefer a bit more heat, increase the Tabasco or add diced jalapeños. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. This dip can be enhanced with fresh herbs like dill or parsley. Remember to taste as you mix to adjust the flavors to your liking. Also, if you're a fan of seafood recipes, try adding a bit of crabmeat for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This shrimp dip is perfect for gatherings and pairs beautifully with Ritz crackers, but you can also serve it with fresh vegetable sticks like celery and bell peppers for a healthier option. To elevate your presentation, serve it in a decorative bowl and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs. Consider serving alongside a refreshing salad or other appetizers like Crabmeat Dip for a delightful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the dip's texture, avoid freezing it, as cream cheese can become grainy when thawed. When ready to serve again, simply give it a good stir to bring back its creaminess. If it seems too thick, you can add a little extra mayonnaise or lemon juice to loosen it up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Edna'S Shrimp Dip contains roughly 69 calories, with 4g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh shrimp instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh shrimp, cook and chop them before adding to the dip. Just ensure they're adequately seasoned, as fresh shrimp can have a milder flavor compared to canned. After cooking, allow them to cool before mixing to keep the dip from becoming too warm.
How can I make this dip ahead of time?
You can prepare this dip up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe, but store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to stir it well before serving to ensure a smooth consistency.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you need a substitute for cream cheese, try using ricotta cheese for a lighter option or a vegan cream cheese if you're looking for a dairy-free alternative. Both will change the flavor slightly but can still work well in this dip. Just adjust the seasonings to your taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).