Shrimp Butter Party Spread

This shrimp butter spread transforms everyday crackers into an elegant appetizer with minimal effort. Its creamy texture and delicate seafood flavor make it a standout at any gathering, from casual book clubs to formal holiday parties.

I first created this spread when hosting an impromptu cocktail hour and needed something special using what I had on hand. The empty dish and requests for the recipe confirmed it would become my signature party offering.

• Cream cheese: Softened to room temperature ensures a smooth base without lumps and provides the perfect creamy foundation
• Butter: At room temperature blends easily with other ingredients while adding richness and a silky mouthfeel
• Mayonnaise: Contributes tanginess and helps create the perfect spreadable consistency
• Salad shrimp: Offer sweet delicate flavor; choose precooked varieties and thoroughly pat dry to prevent excess moisture
• Minced white onion: Adds subtle sharpness and texture; look for firm onions without sprouts
• Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the entire spread; fresh squeezed provides the most vibrant flavor
• Dried dill: Pairs beautifully with seafood; use recently purchased for maximum aroma
• Garlic powder: Infuses depth without overwhelming; always check freshness by smelling before using

Step-by-Step Instructions

Create The Base:

Combine softened cream cheese and butter in a medium bowl and beat until completely smooth with no visible lumps. This creates the foundation for your spread and taking time here ensures perfect texture throughout.

Add Flavor Components:

Gently fold in mayonnaise, dried dill, garlic powder, and lemon juice until fully incorporated. The mayo adds creaminess while the seasonings infuse the base with complementary flavors that enhance the shrimp.

Incorporate The Shrimp:

Add thoroughly dried salad shrimp and minced onion, folding gently to distribute evenly without breaking up the shrimp pieces. The goal is visible pieces of shrimp throughout the spread for both appearance and textural contrast.

Season And Rest:

Taste and adjust salt levels according to preference, then transfer to your serving dish. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least two hours, preferably overnight, allowing flavors to meld completely.

My grandmother taught me this recipe decades ago, insisting on using only the smallest shrimp available. She claimed their delicate sweetness created the perfect balance without overwhelming the spread. Every time I make it, I think of her meticulous preparation at family gatherings.

Make It Your Own

This shrimp butter serves as an excellent template for personalization. Try adding finely chopped fresh herbs like chives or tarragon for brightness, incorporate minced celery for subtle crunch, or spike it with a dash of hot sauce for gentle heat. The base recipe handles additions beautifully while maintaining its creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

While traditional butter crackers provide the classic experience, consider offering this spread with sliced baguette, cucumber rounds, or endive leaves for a fresher approach. For an elegant presentation, pipe small rosettes onto crostini and garnish with fresh dill sprigs and tiny shrimp. At breakfast, try spreading on warm bagels for an unexpected treat.

Storage Information

Store leftover shrimp butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The spread will become firmer when chilled, so plan to remove it about 30 minutes before serving for the ideal consistency. This spread does not freeze well as the texture changes significantly upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of shrimp should I use?

Small, salad shrimp work best for this recipe. Ensure they are cooked, patted dry, and free of excess moisture to avoid a watery spread.

→ How long should I chill the spread?

It’s best to chill the mixture for at least 2 hours to ensure the flavors meld together and the consistency firms up.

→ Can this be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the shrimp butter up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

→ What can I serve this spread with?

This shrimp butter is great with crackers, crusty bread, or fresh vegetables. It also works well as a spread for sandwiches or wraps.

→ Can I use fresh dill instead of dried?

Absolutely. Fresh dill can be used for a fresher flavor. Substitute with 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh dill for the dried version.

→ How do I soften cream cheese and butter quickly?

To soften cream cheese and butter faster, let them sit at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes. Alternatively, you can cut them into smaller pieces to speed up the process.