Rich and Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip with Garlic and Parmesan

Here’s a delicious and indulgent recipe for Rich and Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip with Garlic and Parmesan:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and roughly chopped
• 1/2 lb lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)
• 2 cups fresh spinach (or frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of half a lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Crackers, bread, or chips for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and onions, and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened. Stir in the shrimp, and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Spinach: If using fresh spinach, add it to the skillet and sauté until wilted (about 2-3 minutes). For frozen spinach, thaw it and squeeze out excess water. Add to the skillet and combine with shrimp.
4. Make the Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Beat until smooth and creamy. Stir in 3/4 cup of the grated Parmesan, mozzarella, red pepper flakes (if using), and the cooked shrimp-spinach mixture.
5. Add the Crab: Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful not to break it apart too much.
6. Assemble the Dip: Transfer the dip mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the dip is bubbly and golden on top.
8. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with crackers, toasted bread, or chips.

Enjoy your Rich and Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip! It’s perfect for gatherings or as a hearty appetizer.