30-Minute Creamy Parmesan Shrimp Dip
A rich and indulgent hot dip featuring tender shrimp in a creamy cheese sauce with a hint of Cajun heat. The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and sour cream creates an ultra-smooth base, while red pepper flakes and Creole seasoning add warmth without overwhelming the delicate shrimp flavor. Perfect for entertaining, this crowd-pleasing appetizer pairs beautifully with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or crackers. The golden bubbly top from broiling adds an irresistible textural contrast to the creamy interior.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon Cajun or Creole seasoning
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 pound uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined and cut into bite-size pieces
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
- 2
Melt butter in a nonstick pan over medium heat
- 3
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute
- 4
Sprinkle flour into pan and cook while stirring for 1-2 minutes
- 5
Gradually whisk in heavy cream
- 6
Add red pepper flakes and Creole seasoning
- 7
Set aside 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese and stir remaining cheese into cream mixture until melted
- 8
Stir in sour cream and green onions
- 9
Stir in shrimp
- 10
Transfer mixture to a small baking dish
- 11
Sprinkle reserved Parmesan cheese on top
- 12
Bake for 15 minutes
- 13
Turn broiler on and broil until cheese is golden and bubbly
Tips
Use medium or large shrimp for the best texture - they hold up better during baking and provide satisfying bites.
Don't skip the flour cooking step as it prevents the sauce from separating and ensures a smooth, thickened base.
Serve immediately while hot and bubbly for the best creamy texture and optimal cheese pull.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days in covered container
Can prepare sauce base up to 1 day ahead, add shrimp just before baking
Serve hot with tortilla chips, crusty bread, or crackers
Common Mistakes
Don't overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture
Cook flour thoroughly to prevent raw flour taste in finished dip
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use cooked shrimp instead?
Yes, add cooked shrimp in the last 5 minutes of baking to just heat through and prevent overcooking.
What if my sauce breaks or curdles?
Remove from heat immediately and whisk vigorously. If needed, blend briefly with immersion blender to restore smoothness.
How long will leftovers keep?
Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in oven or microwave, stirring frequently to maintain creamy texture.