If you’re on the hunt for an irresistible party appetizer that combines creamy, tangy, and savory flavors all in one bite, you absolutely must try the Shrimp Dip Log Recipe. This classic seafood cheese log brings together luscious cream cheese and tangy sour cream with delicate tiny shrimp and a crunchy pecan or parsley coating that adds the perfect finishing touch. It’s a retro appetizer that feels comforting and fresh, ideal for everything from holiday gatherings to casual get-togethers with friends. Once you whip this up, it’s sure to become your new go-to dish for entertaining.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of texture and flavor in the Shrimp Dip Log Recipe. From the creamy base to the zesty seasonings and crunchy coating, every component works in harmony to delight your taste buds.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): The rich, smooth base that makes every bite creamy and luscious.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds a tangy creaminess that lightens the texture and enhances flavor.
- Lemon juice (1 teaspoon): A splash of brightness that gives the dip a fresh, zesty lift.
- Worcestershire sauce (1/2 teaspoon): Deep umami notes that bring complexity and depth to the dip.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a subtle savory punch without overpowering.
- Onion powder (1/4 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavor with gentle sweetness and sharpness.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough spice to add warmth and dimension.
- Tiny shrimp (4-ounce can, drained and patted dry): The star seafood ingredient, tender and flavorful, making this dip truly special.
- Green onion (2 tablespoons, finely chopped): Fresh bite and color to lighten the blend.
- Celery (2 tablespoons, finely chopped, optional): Adds a refreshing crunch if you like a little extra texture.
- Pecans or parsley (1/2 cup, finely chopped): The delightful coating that adds crunch and a beautiful presentation.
How to Make Shrimp Dip Log Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Creamy Ingredients
Start by mixing together the softened cream cheese and sour cream in a medium bowl until they become smooth and velvety. Then, stir in lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. These seasonings add brightness and depth, turning a simple base into something truly flavorful and inviting.
Step 2: Fold in Shrimp and Fresh Veggies
Gently fold the tiny shrimp into the creamy mixture along with chopped green onions and celery if you’re using it. Folding carefully keeps all the textures intact, ensuring those little morsels of shrimp stay tender and the veggies maintain a pleasant crunch.
Step 3: Shape into a Log
Using a spatula or your hands, shape the shrimp mixture into a cylindrical log shape. This classic shape isn’t just for nostalgia—it’s perfect for rolling in the coating and serving slices with crackers or vegetables.
Step 4: Coat with Pecans or Parsley
Spread the finely chopped pecans or parsley on a plate, then roll the entire log in the coating. Pack it gently so your shrimp dip is evenly covered for an attractive and crunchy exterior that adds a wonderful contrast to the creamy inside.
Step 5: Chill and Let Flavors Meld
Wrap the shrimp dip log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This chilling time firms up the log so it slices beautifully and lets the flavors blend together, making each bite thoughtfully seasoned and harmonious.
How to Serve Shrimp Dip Log Recipe
Garnishes
A little garnish goes a long way in turning this appetizer into a centerpiece. Sprinkle some extra chopped green onion or a few whole pecans on top for a pop of color and texture. A lemon wedge on the side can brighten the palate for those who want an extra hint of citrus zing.
Side Dishes
Serve your shrimp dip log with an assortment of crispy crackers, toasted crostini, or refreshing vegetable sticks like cucumber, carrot, or bell pepper. These provide a satisfying crunch and act as the perfect vehicles for scooping up all that creamy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your Shrimp Dip Log Recipe stand out by placing it on a large platter surrounded by fresh herbs or colorful vegetable slices arranged like a garden. You can also slice the log into bite-sized rounds for a fun finger food twist, perfect for buffets and cocktail parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The shrimp dip log keeps quite well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. This makes it easy to prepare in advance for parties and grab a quick snack whenever the craving hits.
Freezing
While this recipe is best fresh, you can freeze the log for up to one month if wrapped very carefully. Just be sure to thaw it slowly in the refrigerator overnight to maintain the best texture and flavor, as cream cheese-based dips can sometimes separate if frozen.
Reheating
Since this is a no-cook appetizer, reheating is not necessary and not recommended. Instead, serve chilled or at room temperature to enjoy its full creamy, fresh flavor and perfect texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh shrimp instead of canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh shrimp, cook them lightly and chop finely before folding into the dip. This will give your Shrimp Dip Log Recipe a fresh seafood taste with the same creamy consistency.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives such as cashew-based cream cheese and coconut sour cream, though the texture and taste will vary slightly.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding dill, paprika, hot sauce, or even a pinch of Old Bay seasoning to the mix for a personalized flavor twist.
How long should I chill the shrimp dip log?
A minimum of one hour is needed to let the flavors meld and for the log to firm up, but leaving it overnight will intensify the taste and improve slicing.
What’s the best way to serve it at a party?
Slicing the chilled log into rounds and serving on a beautiful platter with an array of dipping crackers, crostini, and fresh veggies makes it easy for guests to enjoy while socializing.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Shrimp Dip Log Recipe that brings a nostalgic yet refreshing vibe to any gathering. It’s easy to prepare, pleasing to the palate, and a joy to share. Whether you’re new to shrimp dips or a longtime fan, this recipe is certain to become a cherished favorite in your recipe box. So grab your ingredients, chill the dip, and get ready to impress your friends and family with this creamy, zesty, and crunchy delight!
Print
Shrimp Dip Log Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Shrimp Dip Log is a creamy, flavorful appetizer featuring a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and tiny shrimp, rolled in a crunchy coating of chopped pecans or parsley. Perfect for holiday gatherings or casual parties, this no-cook recipe is quick to prepare and served chilled for a refreshing starter.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (4-ounce) can tiny shrimp, drained and patted dry
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onion
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped celery (optional)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or parsley (for coating)
Instructions
- Mix Cream Base: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well blended, ensuring a creamy base for the dip.
- Fold in Shrimp and Vegetables: Gently fold in the drained tiny shrimp, chopped green onion, and celery if using. This step preserves the shrimp’s texture and distributes the fresh flavors evenly throughout the dip.
- Shape into a Log: Using a spatula or your hands, shape the dip mixture into a smooth log. This shape makes it perfect for rolling in the coating and easy to slice when serving.
- Coat the Dip Log: Spread the chopped pecans or parsley evenly on a plate. Roll the shrimp log gently in this coating until fully covered, adding a delightful crunch or herbal freshness on the outside.
- Chill the Dip Log: Wrap the coated log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling step firms the log, allowing flavors to meld and intensify for a tastier dip.
- Serve: Unwrap and serve the shrimp dip log chilled, paired with crackers, crostini, or vegetable sticks for a crowd-pleasing appetizer at any party or gathering.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of Old Bay seasoning to the cream cheese mixture.
- This dip log can be prepared a day in advance and stored wrapped in the refrigerator to deepen the flavors.
- Celery is optional but adds a nice crunch and freshness to the dip.
- Choose chopped parsley for a lighter, herbaceous coating or pecans for a crunchy, nutty texture.
