Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach Dip – Page 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Add the Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, lemon juice, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together until well combined.

Gently fold in the chopped shrimp, crab meat, and sautéed spinach mixture into the creamy base. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Transfer the dip mixture to a baking dish (a 9-inch round or square dish works great). Spread it out evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese on top for that melty, cheesy finish.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the dip is heated through.

Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve with tortilla chips, crusty bread, vegetable crudites, or crackers for dipping.

For a Spicier Kick: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dip to give it an extra layer of heat.
For Extra Creaminess: If you want a smoother dip, you can substitute the cream cheese with Neufchatel cheese, which has a lower fat content but still creates a creamy texture.
Herb Variations: If you want to enhance the flavors further, try adding some fresh dill or thyme for a burst of fresh herbiness.
Lighter Version: Swap out the mayonnaise and sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter dip that still packs a creamy punch.
Add Bacon: For an extra indulgent twist, crumble crispy bacon on top before baking. The smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the shrimp and crab.
Make It Ahead: You can prepare this dip ahead of time. Just assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just bake it as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if needed.

Refrigeration: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. The flavors tend to meld and get even better the next day!
Reheating: To reheat, simply place the dip in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated to your liking.