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Layered Shrimp Cocktail Dip - Perfect Appetizer Recipe

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4.2 from 64 reviews

Layered Shrimp Cocktail Dip is a delicious and elegant appetizer featuring a creamy cream cheese base topped with tangy cocktail sauce and fresh boiled shrimp. Perfect for parties and gatherings, this no-cook dip combines classic flavors in a visually appealing layered presentation that pairs wonderfully with crackers.

Ingredients

Cream Cheese Layer

  • 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon grated onion
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Cocktail Sauce

  • 12 ounce bottle chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Toppings and Garnish

  • 2 cups fresh boiled shrimp, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 2 green onion tops, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cream Cheese Layer: In a medium bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, fresh lemon juice, grated onion, and minced garlic until smooth and well combined. Spread this mixture evenly in an 8-inch springform pan or shallow serving dish. Cover with foil and refrigerate for a minimum of 12 hours to let the flavors meld and the layer set.
  2. Cocktail Sauce Preparation: In another bowl, combine the chili sauce, prepared horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and fresh lemon juice. Stir until evenly mixed. Cover and refrigerate this cocktail sauce until you are ready to assemble the dip.
  3. Assembly: When ready to serve, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan containing the cream cheese layer. Evenly spread half of the chilled cocktail sauce over the cream cheese layer to create the second layer.
  4. Shrimp Topping: Sprinkle the chopped fresh boiled shrimp evenly over the cocktail sauce layer to add texture and seafood flavor.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Finally, garnish the top of the shrimp with the chopped green onion tops for a fresh and colorful finish. Serve the layered dip chilled with your favorite crackers for scooping.

Notes

  • For best results, use full-fat cream cheese softened to room temperature for smooth blending.
  • The dip requires refrigeration for at least 12 hours to allow the cream cheese layer to firm up and the flavors to develop.
  • You can prepare the cocktail sauce a day ahead to save time.
  • Freshly boiled shrimp adds the best texture and flavor, but you can use cooked shrimp purchased from a quality source.
  • Serve chilled and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.