Shrimp And Cream Appetizer
A creamy shrimp appetizer with a tangy chile sauce and horseradish, perfect for entertaining and enjoyed with crackers or chips for a spicy, savory treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese and blend in Worcestershire sauce.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture on the bottom of the serving dish.
- Drain the frozen shrimp and sprinkle lemon juice over them.
- Mix the shrimp with Heinz chile sauce, horseradish, and Tabasco.
- Spread the shrimp mixture on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Chill the appetizer well before serving.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a dash of lemon zest to the shrimp mixture. If you're out of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be a suitable substitute. For a twist, try mixing in some diced jalapeños for heat or swap the shrimp for crab meat. This shrimp appetizer is a great starter for gatherings and pairs well with other seafood recipes like Miss Edna'S Seafood Bisque.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp and cream appetizer with an assortment of crackers or toasted baguette slices for added texture. It also pairs well with a fresh garden salad or a side of sliced vegetables. For a themed meal, consider serving alongside dishes like Royal Seafood Casserole or Barbecue Roasted Salmon to create a delightful seafood spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover shrimp and cream appetizer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It's best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat. If you prefer it warm, gently warm in the oven at a low temperature, being careful not to melt the cream cheese too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp And Cream Appetizer contains roughly 67 calories, with 8g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value) and protein (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 567mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
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 frozen?
Yes, fresh shrimp can be used in this recipe. Just ensure they are cooked and peeled before mixing them with the other ingredients. Fresh shrimp will provide a different texture and flavor that can elevate the dish even further.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of horseradish and consider incorporating a splash of hot sauce like Tabasco into the shrimp mixture. You can also add finely chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to kick up the spice level.
Is this appetizer suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, the shrimp and cream mixture is gluten-free. Just be sure to choose gluten-free crackers or accompaniments when serving. This makes it a versatile appetizer option for gluten-sensitive guests.
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).