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Shrimp On The Brain Crackers: Spooky Creamy Shrimp Dip in a Brain-Shaped Mold Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 115 reviews
  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This spooky and creamy Shrimp On The Brain Cracker Spread is a fun and flavorful party dip that combines cream cheese, cream of mushroom soup, gelatin, and chopped shrimp. Molded in a brain shape and garnished with cocktail sauce to create a gory effect, this appetizer is perfect for Halloween or any themed gathering. Serve it chilled with crisp crackers for a crowd-pleasing starter.


Ingredients

Scale

Gelatin Mixture

  • 1 package unflavored gelatin
  • 1/4 cup water

Dip Mixture

  • 1 (10 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions
  • 2 cups cooled, cooked shrimp, roughly chopped
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 tsp hot sauce

For Serving

  • Cocktail sauce
  • Crisp, sturdy crackers


Instructions

  1. Dissolve Gelatin: Whisk together the unflavored gelatin and 1/4 cup water until completely dissolved. Set this mixture aside to allow the gelatin to activate.
  2. Prepare Cream Cheese and Soup Base: In a large skillet over medium heat, stir together the softened cream cheese and cream of mushroom soup until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This step warms the mixture slightly to ensure everything blends well.
  3. Incorporate Gelatin: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the dissolved gelatin mixture thoroughly to ensure even distribution throughout the dip.
  4. Fold in Remaining Ingredients: Gently fold in the chopped shrimp, sliced green onions, mayonnaise, and hot sauce until everything is well combined but the shrimp remains intact.
  5. Mold the Dip: Lightly spray the inside of a brain-shaped mold with non-stick cooking spray. Pour the dip mixture into the mold, smoothing the top, then cover tightly with cling wrap.
  6. Chill to Set: Refrigerate the mold for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the gelatin to set and hold the shape firmly.
  7. Serve and Garnish: When ready, invert the mold onto a serving plate to release the brain-shaped dip. Spread cocktail sauce over the top to give a bloody, gory effect. Optionally, insert a cheese knife or small steak knife into the top for a dramatic presentation.
  8. Accompany with Crackers: Serve the ‘brain’ spread with additional cocktail sauce and crisp, sturdy crackers for dipping and spreading.

Notes

  • A creamy shrimp party dip with a devilishly spooky presentation, perfect for Halloween or themed parties.
  • Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved and incorporated to achieve a firm set.
  • Use cooked, cooled shrimp to maintain texture and flavor in the spread.
  • Store leftovers refrigerated and consume within 2-3 days for best freshness.
  • For added heat, increase the amount of hot sauce to taste.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/12 of recipe (approx. 1/2 cup)
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg