Louisiana Shrimp Dip is a rich, creamy, and boldly seasoned warm Cajun baked dip that captures the heart of Southern cooking. Loaded with tender shrimp, cream cheese, shredded cheese, and Cajun spices, this dip is baked until bubbly and golden, making it irresistible for parties, holidays, and game days.

If you love Louisiana flavors—spice, seafood, and comfort food—this warm shrimp dip belongs at the center of your table.

Why Louisiana Shrimp Dip Is So Popular

This dip is a standout appetizer because it combines:

Classic Cajun seasoning
Creamy, cheesy texture
Savory shrimp flavor

Easy oven-baked preparation
Crowd-pleasing comfort food appeal

It’s bold without being overwhelming and rich without feeling heavy—perfect Southern balance.

Flavor & Texture Profile

A perfect Louisiana Shrimp Dip should be:

Creamy and smooth with melted cheese
Packed with savory shrimp flavor

Warmly spiced with Cajun seasoning
Slightly smoky and garlicky
Gooey in the center with a lightly golden top

Each bite delivers heat, richness, and seafood sweetness all at once.

What Makes It “Louisiana-Style”?

This dip draws inspiration from Louisiana Cajun and Creole cooking, known for:

Bold seasoning blends

Garlic, onion, and paprika notes
Seafood-forward recipes
Comfort-focused dishes meant for sharing

Cajun seasoning is the backbone, bringing depth, warmth, and character to the dip.

Key Ingredients Explained

Shrimp

Use raw or cooked shrimp, finely chopped
Medium shrimp work best

Fresh or frozen (thawed) both work

Cream Cheese

The creamy base of the dip
Use full-fat for best texture

Shredded Cheese

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend
Adds meltability and flavor

Cajun Seasoning

Provides spice, salt, and depth

Adjust to taste depending on heat level

Garlic & Onion

Add savory backbone
Essential for authentic flavor

Green Onions or Parsley

Freshness and color
Balances the richness

How to Make Louisiana Shrimp Dip (Overview)

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Peel, devein, and finely chop shrimp if raw.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Lightly sauté garlic and onion in butter until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook Shrimp

Add shrimp and cook just until pink (if raw).

Step 4: Mix the Dip Base

Combine cream cheese, shredded cheese, Cajun seasoning, and cooked shrimp mixture.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spread evenly and smooth the top.

Step 6: Bake

Bake until bubbly and lightly golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Top with green onions or parsley and serve warm.

Why Baking Makes This Dip Better

Baking the dip:

Melds flavors together
Melts cheese evenly

Creates a golden, lightly crisp top
Keeps the dip warm for serving

Warm shrimp dip is far superior to cold—it’s rich, gooey, and comforting.

Pro Tips for the Best Cajun Shrimp Dip

Chop shrimp finely for even bites
Do not overcook shrimp before baking
Use room-temperature cream cheese

Taste Cajun seasoning before adding more salt
Serve immediately while warm and bubbly

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Rubbery Shrimp

Overcooking shrimp before baking.

Greasy Texture

Too much cheese or baking at too high heat.

Bland Flavor

Not enough seasoning or garlic.

Dry Dip

Overbaking—remove once bubbly.

Delicious Variations

Spicy Louisiana Shrimp Dip

Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

Shrimp & Crab Cajun Dip

Use half shrimp, half lump crab meat.

Creamy Shrimp Dip with Cream of Soup

Add a small amount of cream of shrimp or mushroom soup.

Low-Carb Cajun Shrimp Dip

Skip flour-based add-ins and serve with veggies.

Slow Cooker Shrimp Dip

Keep warm in a slow cooker after baking.

What to Serve with Louisiana Shrimp Dip

This dip pairs perfectly with:

Toasted baguette slices
Crackers
Tortilla chips

Crostini
Celery sticks or bell pepper strips

For parties, offer both crunchy bread and lighter veggie options.

Perfect Occasions for Shrimp Dip

Game day parties
Holiday gatherings
Mardi Gras celebrations

Potlucks
Family get-togethers

It’s especially popular for Southern-themed events and seafood lovers.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating

Make Ahead

Assemble the dip up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warm.

Is Louisiana Shrimp Dip Kid-Friendly?

It can be. Reduce Cajun seasoning for a milder version. The creamy, cheesy base is appealing even to kids who enjoy seafood.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes—thaw completely and pat dry.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes—assemble and bake just before serving.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes—add them at the mixing stage to avoid overcooking.

How spicy is Cajun shrimp dip?

Moderate, but adjustable based on seasoning.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Appetizer Collection

Louisiana Shrimp Dip is:

Rich and comforting
Easy to prepare
Packed with bold Southern flavor

Perfect for entertaining
Always a crowd favorite

It’s the kind of appetizer people gather around—and ask for the recipe.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a warm, creamy, boldly seasoned appetizer that screams Southern comfort, Louisiana Shrimp Dip (Warm Cajun Baked Dip) delivers every time. With tender shrimp, rich cheese, and Cajun spice, it’s a show-stopping dip that disappears fast.

Serve it once, and it will become a must-make party favorite.

Louisiana Shrimp Dip (Warm Cajun Baked Dip): Creamy, Spicy Southern Comfort

Author: WAFA LI

Print Recipe

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8″ baking dish or 10″ cast-iron skillet.
Sauté aromatics: In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper; cook 4–5 min until soft. Add garlic and Cajun seasoning; cook 30 sec.

Add shrimp: Stir in chopped shrimp; cook 2–3 min until just pink (they’ll finish cooking in the oven). Remove from heat.
Make dip base: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth. Stir in cooked shrimp mixture and 1 cup of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
Assemble: Spread mixture into baking dish. Top with remaining ½ cup cheeses.

Bake 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
Garnish with green onions and serve warm with your favorite dippers!

💡 Make ahead: Assemble dip (without baking) up to 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate; add 5–10 min to bake time if cold.

Prep Time & Nutrition (per serving, serves 6):