Grandmother's Spicy Shrimp Dip

My My grandmother—my dad’s mom—absolutely adored her grandchildren. My father was an only child, and I think deep down she would have loved having a daughter of her own. From the moment I was born, she and my grandfather spoiled me in the sweetest ways. When I was three, my grandfather called to ask if “Puddin’” could come live with them. By the time I was four, I even had my own phone line so they could call me whenever they wanted. My parents just shook their heads, grateful that I was wrapped in so much love.After my grandfather passed away far too young, my grandmother moved to be near us in West Monroe, Louisiana. The summer after seventh grade became our summer—the one where she “taught” me how to cook. I had already been playing in the kitchen for years, but learning from her felt special. Some of the things she showed me are still part of the way I cook today.This shrimp dip was one of those rare treats from my childhood. We didn’t have much money growing up, and shrimp was a luxury, so whenever it appeared on the table, it felt like a celebration. I still think of her every time I make it, and I hope you enjoy it as much as we always did. This is great served with some Fritos scoops!

🍤 Grandmother's Spicy Shrimp Dip

Prep Time: 10 mins | Chill Time: 15 mins | Servings: 4–6

🛒 INGREDIENTS

2 cups cooked shrimp (finely chopped or salad shrimp)
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 tbsp mayonnaise (plus extra to adjust consistency)
½ tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp hot sauce
Optional garnish: Cajun seasoning for dusting
For serving: Chips, crackers, toasted baguettes, or Frito's Scoops

👩‍🍳 DIRECTIONS

Prep the Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen raw shrimp that have been boiled, cooled, and finely chopped. (Pro-Tip: Use frozen salad shrimp or canned shrimp and pulse/run them in a mixer for a few minutes to break them down into a near-paste consistency!)
Blend Cream Cheese & Mayo: Add your softened cream cheese and mayonnaise to the shrimp. (This is a "cook with your heart" recipe—if you prefer a looser or more spreadable dip, go ahead and add a little extra mayo!)
Season & Adjust: Add the cayenne pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and hot sauce. Mix thoroughly, taste, and adjust the spices to your preferred heat level! ❤️
Chill & Serve: Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator to let all those rich, spicy flavors meld together.
Pair: Dust the top with a pinch of Cajun seasoning and serve alongside chips, crackers, or toasted baguettes (Frito's Scoops are the absolute best with this!).

💡 NOTES

Storage: Keep stored tightly in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.