Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium-sized works best)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mayonnaise (feel free to substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste; I prefer a homemade blend with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and thyme)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. This slow cooking is key—like the gentle simmering of Nonna Rosa’s marinara, it unlocks sweetness and depth.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Garlic is one of those foundational flavors I grew up loving; its aroma instantly transports me to my grandmother’s garden.
- Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper over the onions and garlic. Stir well to coat and toast the spices slightly, about 30 seconds. This step releases the spices’ full flavor, a trick I picked up during my time wandering spice markets in New Orleans.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Don’t overcook them; tender shrimp are the heart of this dip’s charm.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the shrimp mixture cool slightly. Then chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces, making the dip easier to scoop and share.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and lemon juice. Using a spatula, fold in the shrimp and spice mixture until everything is well incorporated.
- Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. The balance of creamy, tangy, and spicy should delight your palate—feel free to add more cayenne if you like it fiery, as my daughters sometimes do.
- Transfer the dip to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
- For an extra touch, you can warm the dip in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes until bubbly and golden on top—perfect for cozy family evenings or holiday parties.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
