Homemade Shrimp Butter

Prep: 10 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A creamy, flavorful shrimp butter perfect for spreading on crackers, combining tender shrimp, rich butter, cream cheese, and a hint of lemon for a delightful appetizer.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
  • 3 Tbsp. finely chopped onion
  • 4 1/4 oz. can broken shrimp, rinsed and drained
  • 1 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • assorted crackers

Instructions

  1. In a small mixer bowl, combine butter, mayonnaise, and cream cheese; beat at medium speed until light and fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes.
  2. Add onion, shrimp, and lemon juice; continue beating until well mixed, 1 to 2 minutes.
  3. Serve with crackers.
  4. Store in refrigerator.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother texture, ensure both the butter and cream cheese are very soft before mixing. If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper. You can also substitute the broken shrimp with fresh cooked shrimp for a more robust flavor. Using low-fat cream cheese can lighten the recipe without sacrificing too much creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this shrimp butter with an assortment of crackers for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with Tangy Oyster Crackers for a unique twist. You can also spread it on toasted baguette slices or use it as a topping for baked potatoes. For a complete seafood experience, consider serving it alongside Quick & Easy Salmon Croquets.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover shrimp butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To enjoy it later, simply take it out and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to soften before serving. Avoid freezing, as it may change the texture when thawed.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Homemade Shrimp Butter contains roughly 247 calories, with 3g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 20g fat.

247 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.7g 5% DV
Total Fat 19.9g 26% DV
Carbs 15g 5% DV
Fiber 0.8g 3% DV
Sugar 1.9g 4% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 251.9mg 11% DV
Potassium 70.2mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 10.3mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 19.3mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 0.5mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 27.4mg 2% DV
Iron 0.8mg 5% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten Shellfish

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! Fresh shrimp will add a delicious flavor and texture. Just make sure to cook and chop them finely before mixing them into the butter. This substitution will make your shrimp butter even more flavorful and fresh.

What can I serve this shrimp butter with?

This shrimp butter is incredibly versatile. It pairs well with a variety of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or even spread on sandwiches. You might also enjoy it with toasted bread or as a dip for seafood dishes, enhancing your overall meal experience.

How long does this shrimp butter last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, shrimp butter will last for about a week in the refrigerator. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before consuming, and remember to allow it to soften at room temperature before serving.

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).

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