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This easy Cream Cheese Shrimp Cocktail Dip is one of those old-fashioned appetizers that never seems to go out of style. With just four simple ingredients and about 10 minutes of prep, it’s perfect for holidays, game days, potlucks, or anytime you need a quick appetizer that everyone enjoys.
If you like classic shrimp cocktail, you’ll love this layered version. Creamy reduced-fat cream cheese, tangy cocktail sauce, tender shrimp, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs come together in a simple dip that’s always one of the first things to disappear.
Best of all, there’s no cooking required.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Cocktail Dip
- Just 4 simple ingredients
- Ready in about 10 minutes
- No cooking required
- Easy to make ahead
- Perfect for holidays, parties, and potlucks
- Lighter than many traditional party dips
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Reduced-Fat Cream Cheese (Neufchâtel) – Creates the creamy base while keeping the dip a little lighter than regular cream cheese. Regular cream cheese works just as well if you prefer.
- Cooked Bay Shrimp – Their small size makes them perfect for this dip. If you can’t find bay shrimp, simply chop cooked medium or large shrimp into bite-size pieces.
- Cocktail Sauce – Use your favorite bottled cocktail sauce or homemade. Choose a mild or extra-zesty version depending on your preference.
- Fresh Parsley or Green Onions – Adds a little freshness and color. Chives or fresh dill are also delicious.
How to Make Cream Cheese Shrimp Cocktail Dip
Step 1: Spread the softened cream cheese evenly onto a serving plate or shallow pie plate (affiliate link).
Step 2: Spread the cocktail sauce evenly over the cream cheese.
Step 3: Scatter the shrimp evenly across the top.
Step 4: Sprinkle with parsley or sliced green onions.
Step 5: Chill until ready to serve.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Allow the cream cheese to soften before spreading for the smoothest layer.
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels if they seem wet to keep the dip from becoming watery.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving for extra brightness.
- Sprinkle with a little Old Bay seasoning or freshly cracked black pepper if you’d like a little extra flavor.
- For a spicier dip, use a hot cocktail sauce or add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
What to Serve with Shrimp Cocktail Dip
This dip is delicious with:
- Triscuit or Wheat Thins crackers
- Toasted baguette slices
- Pita chips
- Bagel chips
- Cucumber rounds
- Celery sticks
- Endive leaves
- Bell pepper strips
Make Ahead & Storage
This dip can be assembled several hours ahead and refrigerated until serving.
Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because seafood is involved, it’s best enjoyed within the first day or two.oints.
Calories and WW Points
According to my calculations, each serving has just 45 calories and 1 WW Point.
To see your WW Points for this recipe, track it in the WW App!
(You must be logged into WW on a smartphone or tablet.)
2 PointsPlus (Old plan)
If you’ve made this Low Fat Cream Cheese Shrimp Cocktail Dip, please give the recipe a star rating below and leave a comment letting me know how you liked it. And stay in touch on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for the latest updates.
Easy Layered Shrimp Cocktail Dip
Ingredients
- 8 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 pound cooked bay shrimp (about 2 cups) (or larger shrimp, chopped)
- 3/4 cup cocktail sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley or sliced green onion
Instructions
- Spread the cream cheese onto bottom of shallow bowl.
- Toss shrimp with cocktail sauce; spoon over cream cheese.
- Sprinkle with parsley or green onion.
Notes
(You must be logged into WW on a smartphone or tablet.) 2 PointsPlus (Old plan) To keep things a little lighter and more WW friendly I always use reduced fat cream cheese, aka neufchatel cheese. Neufchatel is a cream cheese made with skim milk, making it a healthier option. I like to serve our cream cheese shrimp dip with our favorite crackers–we love it with Triscuits or Wheat Thins. The would also go well with these tasty Low Carb Everything But the Bagel Chips. Celery, cucumber slices, or endive leaves also makes a great match if you are watching your carbs and WW Points.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. It’s an excellent make-ahead appetizer. Assemble it several hours in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.
Can I use larger shrimp?
Absolutely. Simply chop cooked shrimp into small bite-size pieces before layering.
Can I use regular cream cheese?
Yes. Reduced-fat cream cheese keeps the recipe lighter, but regular cream cheese works perfectly.
Can I freeze this dip?
No. Cream cheese and shrimp don’t freeze well together and the texture changes once thawed.
More Easy Party Appetizers You’ll Love
- Weight Watchers Shrimp Cocktail
- Easy Baked Artichoke Feta Dip
- Greek 7-Layer Dip
- Everything But the Bagel Chips
- 2-Ingredient Canned Tuna Ceviche
- Baked Mini Buffalo Chicken Bites
- Easy Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms
Weight Watchers Shrimp Cocktail Easy Baked Artichoke Feta Dip Greek 7-Layer Dip Everything Bagel Chips 2-Ingredient Tuna Ceviche Baked Mini Buffalo Chicken Bites Easy Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms
Sounds delicious!! I usually do crab instead of shrimp. But, will try this!!
Simple, no bake, delicious, and so festive looking. This will be added to my holiday appetizer list for years to come!