Surprise Spread
A creamy, flavorful seafood spread with shrimp, cheese, and fresh vegetables, perfect for entertaining or a savory appetizer that appeals to seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream and spread over a 12-inch platter.
- Layer with cocktail sauce and sprinkle the shrimp over the top.
- Layer the shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped green onions, and chopped tomato over the shrimp.
- Cover and chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the shrimp with canned crab or even cooked chicken for variations. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the cocktail sauce. This spread is versatile and can be served as an appetizer or a party dip, making it a great choice for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Surprise Spread with an assortment of crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping. It pairs beautifully with Tuna Sandwich Melts for a delightful spread-themed meal. Consider serving it alongside a light salad or fresh fruit for a balanced meal. This dish is perfect for entertaining and is sure to impress your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve again, give it a good stir to refresh the texture. If it seems too thick, you can add a little more mayonnaise or sour cream to loosen it. Avoid freezing as the texture may be affected.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Surprise Spread contains roughly 1107 calories, with 28g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 105g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (62% of the Daily Value), protein (56% of the Daily Value), and calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1663mg per serving (72% 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 make this spread ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just prepare the spread, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bring it out about 30 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly for easier spreading.
What can I use instead of shrimp?
If you're not a fan of shrimp, you can easily substitute it with canned crab, which adds a nice flavor. Alternatively, cooked chicken or even smoked salmon can work well, keeping in mind that it will alter the overall taste of the spread.
Is it necessary to chill the spread before serving?
Chilling the spread is highly recommended, as it helps the flavors develop and the texture firm up, making it easier to spread. However, if you're short on time, you can serve it immediately, just know that the flavors may not be as pronounced.
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).