Fantastic Shrimp Cocktail Spread Recipe

"This is a huge favorite at my get togethers, it's the perfect spread with crackers, it's easy to put together just layer and serve. It can be prepared hours in advance and refrigerated until serving time. Once your guests try this everyone will want the recipe it's *that* good! 2 cups fresh cooked baby shrimp can be used in place of the canned but canned is much easier :)"

Step by Step Method

Step 1

Prepare a 12-inch dish or a glass pie or a fancy quiche plate.

Step 2

In a bowl combine together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic (if using) and mayonnaise; spread into bottom of prepared dish.

Step 3

Scatter the shrimp over the mixture.

Step 4

Top with the cocktail sauce (you can use more than 1 cup if desired) then the mozzarella cheese, green peppers, chopped tomatoes, and last the chopped green peppers on the top.

Step 5

Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 6

Serve with crackers.

Editorial Notes

The ingredient tips, suggestions, variations, facts, questions and answers below are not edits to the original author's recipe. They are not meant to imply any change would improve the recipe. They're offered for convenience, alternative ideas, and points of interest. If you have any comments about them, please post in the Help & Ideas forum.

Tips for selecting ingredients

When choosing the seafood cocktail sauce, make sure to pick one that is not too spicy or acidic.
If using fresh cooked baby shrimp, be sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the recipe.

Ingredient substitutions

For the cream cheese, substitute Greek yogurt for a lower-fat, higher-protein option. Benefits: Greek yogurt is a great source of protein, and is lower in fat than cream cheese. This substitution will help reduce the fat content of the dish and increase the protein content.
For the mayonnaise, substitute avocado for a healthier, lower-fat option. Benefits: Avocado is a great source of healthy fats and is lower in fat than mayonnaise. This substitution will help reduce the fat content of the dish while still providing a delicious flavor.

Variations

Vegan Shrimp Cocktail Spread Replace the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and mozzarella cheese with vegan alternatives. Replace the shrimp with a vegan meat alternative. Replace the seafood cocktail sauce with a vegan-friendly sauce.

Serve with

Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries - These delicious Parmesan zucchini fries are the perfect accompaniment to the Fantastic Shrimp Cocktail Spread. They are crispy on the outside and soft and cheesy on the inside, and the Parmesan cheese adds a nice flavor to the dish. Plus, they are a great way to get your veggies in!

Recommended Dish Title: Grilled Asparagus with Lemon-Garlic Butter Sauce

Recommended Dish Description: This flavorful side dish pairs perfectly with the Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries. The savory lemon-garlic butter sauce enhances the natural flavor of the asparagus, making it a delicious and healthy accompaniment to the zucchini fries. Plus, it's quick and easy to make!

FAQ

Q: How long can I store this spread in the refrigerator?

A: This spread can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Q: Does this spread need to be refrigerated?

A: No, this spread does not need to be refrigerated unless it is opened. Once opened, it should be stored in the refrigerator and used within two days.

Fun facts:

FACT 1: The popularity of shrimp cocktail spread dates back to the 1950s when it was a popular appetizer served at formal gatherings. It was even served at the inaugural dinner of President Dwight Eisenhower in 1953.

FACT 2: The famous chef Julia Child is credited with popularizing shrimp cocktail spread in the United States. She featured it in her cookbook, Mastering the Art of French Cooking, published in 1961.