Shrimp Ball
Shrimp balls are a delightful appetizer featuring creamy cheese blended with shrimp and zesty horseradish, finished with a tangy cocktail sauce. Perfect for parties or gatherings, they offer a burst of flavor in every bite, appealing to seafood lovers and those seeking a unique, savory snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften cream cheese with a fork.
- Add horseradish and Old Bay. Combine and add shrimp with a little juice from each can.
- Form into a ball using plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for a couple of hours.
- Before serving, pour cocktail sauce over the ball and add more as necessary.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the canned shrimp with fresh shrimp or even crab meat if desired. Adjust the Old Bay seasoning to your taste, as some may prefer a milder flavor. Pair this with crackers or vegetables for a delightful appetizer, similar to the popular Tuna Cheese Spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp ball with a variety of crackers or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping. It pairs beautifully with the Crosse & Blackwell cocktail sauce, and you can offer additional sauce on the side for guests who want more. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can be served alongside other seafood recipes like the Salmon Ball or Crab Meat Bisque.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If the shrimp ball has been coated with cocktail sauce, it's best to keep the sauce separate to maintain its flavor and texture. When ready to serve again, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Ball contains roughly 78 calories, with 6g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value) and protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 471mg per serving (20% 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 canned?
Absolutely! Fresh shrimp can elevate the flavor of your shrimp ball. Just ensure they are cooked, peeled, and finely chopped before mixing them with the other ingredients. This will give your dish a fresher taste and a more appealing texture.
How long should I refrigerate the shrimp ball?
Refrigerating the shrimp ball for at least two hours is recommended, as this allows the flavors to meld together. For the best results, you can even prepare it the night before, giving it plenty of time to chill and firm up.
What can I serve with the shrimp ball?
This shrimp ball is versatile and pairs well with various appetizers. Consider serving it alongside crackers, vegetable sticks, or even toasted baguette slices. You could also create a platter with other seafood recipes like Tuna-Tater Tempters for a delightful spread.
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).