Baked Seafood Spinach Dip with Mozzarella

Introduction

There are certain appetizers that always bring excitement to the table, and baked dips are at the top of that list. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, game night with friends, or a casual family dinner, a hot, bubbling dish of seafood spinach dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This version is elevated with tender shrimp and crab, earthy spinach, and plenty of gooey mozzarella cheese that creates the perfect golden crust on top.

The beauty of this dip lies in its balance of flavors. The natural sweetness of seafood blends with the richness of cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream, while spinach adds depth and nutrition. Mozzarella ties everything together, creating that irresistible cheesy pull in every bite. Best of all, it’s simple to prepare, can be made ahead, and pairs beautifully with bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.

Why This Dip Works

Creamy and Comforting – A smooth, cheesy base that feels indulgent.
Versatile Seafood Options – Use shrimp, crab, or your favorite seafood blend.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor – Both kids and adults will love it.
Customizable – Easy to adapt with different cheeses or spice levels.
Perfect for Entertaining – Serves beautifully at parties, potlucks, or even as a weekend treat.

Ingredients

Creamy Base

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

Seafood and Spinach

1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
1 cup crab meat (fresh, lump, or imitation)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or thawed frozen spinach, drained)
1 tablespoon olive oil

Cheese Blend

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for added sharpness)

Topping and Serving

Extra mozzarella for sprinkling
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Tortilla chips, pita chips, toasted baguette slices, or fresh veggie sticks

Equipment You’ll Need

Medium skillet
Mixing bowls
Spatula and whisk
Baking dish (8×8 or similar)
Oven preheated to 375°F (190°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spinach

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant.
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
Drain any excess moisture and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
Add mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and seasonings.
Whisk until well blended into a creamy, thick mixture.

Step 3: Incorporate Seafood and Spinach

Fold in the chopped shrimp and crab meat.
Stir in the cooked spinach until evenly distributed throughout the dip.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Mix in the mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar (if using).
Combine well so the cheese is spread throughout the mixture.

Step 5: Assemble the Dip

Transfer mixture to a lightly greased baking dish.
Smooth out the top and sprinkle with extra mozzarella.

Step 6: Bake

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes.
The dip should be hot and bubbling with a golden-brown cheesy top.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley.
Serve immediately with chips, bread, or vegetable sticks.

Tips for Success

Drain Spinach Thoroughly – Any extra water will make the dip runny.
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Chop Seafood Small – Smaller pieces distribute evenly and are easier to scoop.
Add Heat if Desired – A dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes can give it a spicy twist.
Broil at the End – For an extra bubbly top, place under the broiler for 2–3 minutes before serving.

Flavor Variations

Seafood Choices – Swap shrimp and crab for scallops, lobster, or a seafood medley.
Cheese Mix – Try Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or fontina for a different flavor profile.
Spicy Version – Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or pepper jack cheese.
Extra Creamy – Mix in a splash of heavy cream or more sour cream.
Lighter Option – Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduced-fat cream cheese.

How to Serve

With tortilla chips or pita chips for classic dipping.
Spread on toasted baguette slices for a more elegant appetizer.
Pair with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers for a lighter option.
Add as part of a party platter with crackers, fruit, and charcuterie for variety.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer – Freeze before baking for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating – Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until hot, or microwave individual servings.

Nutrition (Per Serving, 8 servings)

Calories: ~280
Protein: 14 g
Carbohydrates: 5 g
Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 2 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dip up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake right before serving.

What type of seafood works best?
Shrimp and crab are classic, but lobster, scallops, or clams are excellent alternatives.

Can I make it lighter?
Yes, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and opt for part-skim mozzarella and reduced-fat cream cheese.

Can I use canned crab meat?
Yes, canned crab meat works fine, just drain it thoroughly before mixing.

How do I keep it hot at a party?
After baking, transfer to a slow cooker on the warm setting to keep it hot and melty.

Conclusion

This Baked Seafood Spinach Dip with Mozzarella is a dish that combines elegance with comfort. It’s creamy, flavorful, and indulgent enough to impress at any gathering, yet easy enough to whip up for a cozy night in. The combination of tender seafood, nutritious spinach, and gooey mozzarella makes it unforgettable. Whether served with chips, bread, or fresh veggies, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again whenever you need a reliable crowd-pleaser.