Begin by rinsing the shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. If you’re using popcorn shrimp, they’ll be bite-sized and ready to go. If using larger shrimp, chop them into smaller pieces for easy dipping.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped red bell pepper, sweet onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
Add the shrimp to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning and cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and mayonnaise. Use a spatula to mix until smooth and creamy. Then, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated parmesan cheese, chopped scallions, lemon juice, and the cooked shrimp mixture. If you like it spicy, add the Louisiana hot sauce to taste.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the dip mixture into a serving dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden on top.
Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with your favorite dippers like tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables. Enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite!