If you love rich, flavorful appetizers that are both easy to whip up and fancy enough to impress, this Creamy Shrimp Dip with Fresh Dill and Scallions Recipe is exactly what you need in your culinary rotation. It combines tender shrimp, zesty scallions, and fragrant dill in a luscious cream cheese base, resulting in a dip that’s velvety, tangy, and just the right bit spicy. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself to an indulgent snack, this dip’s vibrant freshness and creamy texture will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white ceramic bowl with small light pink shrimp fills the center, placed on a white marbled surface with a white cloth underneath. Above it, a small beige bowl holds a dollop of thick white cream, and a halved lemon with a bright yellow color sits nearby. To the right, a white vintage-style plate with a pale blue-green center holds a block of white cream cheese, resting on the white cloth next to two green onions. A yellow seasoning container is partially visible in the top right corner. Small bunches of fresh green dill add a touch of color near the lower left of the frame. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started is a breeze with just a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a key role in layering the flavors and textures that make this dip irresistible.

Cooked shrimp (1/2 lb): Small bay shrimp or Oregon pink shrimp work best and lend a sweet, delicate seafood flavor.
Cream cheese (8 ounces): At room temperature, it creates a smooth, rich base that’s essential for the dip’s creamy texture.
Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Adds tang and silkiness, balancing the other creamy elements perfectly.
Sour cream (2 tbsp): Brings a subtle tartness that brightens the dip without overpowering it.
Scallions (3 large): Provides a fresh, mild onion flavor and lovely green color—remember to save some for garnish!
Fresh lemon juice (1 tsp): Adds a zesty brightness that lifts all the flavors.
Hot sauce (1 tsp): Gives a gentle kick of heat to keep things lively.
Old Bay seasoning (1/4 tsp): Infuses a classic, savory spice blend that pairs beautifully with shrimp.
Fresh dill (1 tbsp): Offers an aromatic herbaceous note that elevates the dip’s freshness.
Sea salt (1/4 tsp): Enhances the natural flavors and balances the dip.
Freshly ground black pepper (1/8 tsp): Adds a hint of warmth and spice.

How to Make Creamy Shrimp Dip with Fresh Dill and Scallions Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Begin by roughly chopping the cooked shrimp into bite-sized pieces. This ensures every spoonful has a burst of shrimp flavor without large chunks dominating the texture. Set a few shrimp aside; they’ll become your beautiful garnish later!

Step 2: Combine Creamy Ingredients

If you’re using a food processor, toss in the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and roughly chopped scallions first. Pulse until the mixture is well combined and irresistibly creamy. For those opting for a hand mixer, blend these creamy ingredients in a mixing bowl until smooth and luscious.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Shrimp

Next comes the fun part: adding the lemon juice, hot sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pulse again (or stir if using a hand mixer) to incorporate these, then fold in the shrimp chunks gently. This step ensures all the flavors marry perfectly, giving you a perfectly balanced dip that’s loaded with personality.

Step 4: Stir in Fresh Dill

Sprinkle in the fresh dill last, pulsing just enough to blend its vibrant flavor without letting it turn to mush. This herb is the secret weapon that brightens the entire dip and pairs wonderfully with the shrimp’s sweet notes.

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

Transfer your dip to a serving bowl and top with the reserved shrimp, a sprinkle of chopped scallions, and a few delicate dill sprigs. Let the dip chill if you have time—it really helps the flavors come together beautifully.

How to Serve Creamy Shrimp Dip with Fresh Dill and Scallions Recipe

A white, shallow bowl filled with a creamy, beige dip that has a thick, slightly lumpy texture. On the top, small, light pink shrimp pieces are clustered near the center. Bright green sliced scallions and delicate sprigs of dark green dill are scattered evenly across the creamy surface, adding contrast and a fresh look. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, next to a few lemon wedges showing their bright yellow inside and several round crackers arranged in a slight arc. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing with some reserved shrimp, fresh dill sprigs, and diced scallions not only makes your dip look elegant but also adds bursts of flavor and texture that invite guests to dig in. These little touches make a big visual and taste impact!

Side Dishes

This shrimp dip pairs wonderfully with an assortment of crunchy veggies like crisp celery sticks, bell pepper strips, and cucumber rounds. Don’t forget a selection of crackers or toasted baguette slices to scoop up every bit of that creamy goodness. Offering both veggies and crunchy bread ensures everyone can enjoy it just the way they like.

Creative Ways to Present

For your next gathering, try serving the Creamy Shrimp Dip with Fresh Dill and Scallions Recipe in a hollowed-out bread bowl or atop small endive leaves for elegant bite-sized treats. You can also stuff cherry tomatoes or cucumber boats with the dip for a fresh and festive finger food option that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any dip left over (not that it should be a problem!), keep it tightly covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, making it perfect for enjoying the next day or saving for a snack later.

Freezing

This creamy dip does not freeze well because the texture of cream cheese and mayonnaise can separate upon thawing. For the best experience, it’s best to prepare it fresh or enjoy leftovers within a few days in the fridge.

Reheating

Since this dip is ideally served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. If you want a warm dip experience, consider making a hot shrimp dip variant separately, as this recipe shines best chilled.

FAQs

Can I use raw shrimp instead of cooked?

Absolutely! If starting with raw shrimp, just poach them gently in salted boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink, then plunge into an ice bath to stop the cooking. Dry them thoroughly before chopping and mixing to keep your dip fresh and flavorful.

What can I substitute for fresh dill if I don’t have any?

If fresh dill isn’t available, try substituting with dried dill (use about one-third the amount) or fresh parsley for a milder flavor. The dip will still be delicious but will lose some of the signature herbaceous brightness that dill brings.

Is there a way to make this dip spicier?

Definitely! Increase the hot sauce slightly or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to bring more heat and depth. Just add gradually and taste frequently so you get the perfect level of spice without overpowering the delicate shrimp flavor.

Can I prepare this dip without a food processor?

Yes! Use a hand mixer or even a sturdy whisk to blend the cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream until smooth. Then fold in the chopped scallions, shrimp, and herbs by hand. It might take a bit more elbow grease but the result will be just as tasty.

What’s the best way to serve this dip for parties?

Serve it chilled with an assortment of dippers such as fresh vegetables, pita chips, crusty bread, or assorted crackers. Presenting it with colorful plates and bowls will also make the spread inviting and festive, encouraging everyone to dive in.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have the secrets to this delicious Creamy Shrimp Dip with Fresh Dill and Scallions Recipe, I encourage you to give it a try—it’s truly a showstopper! With its satisfying creaminess, fresh herbal notes, and seafood sweetness, it’s a wonderful dish that brings everyone together. Whether for a casual get-together or a special occasion, this dip is sure to become a beloved classic in your recipe collection.