This Shrimp Ball recipe, dated January 1973 and penned by Elva Treyz, is a vintage appetizer that brings back the charm of mid-century party fare. Rich with cream cheese, flavorful shrimp, and the crunch of celery, onions, and crispy bacon, it’s an indulgent and savory dish often served with crackers at holiday gatherings and family get-togethers. The Worcestershire and garlic powder add subtle depth, balancing creamy and umami flavors. It's a nostalgic bite into a time when handwritten recipes and food traditions were passed down on colorful stationery.
Ingredients
- 24 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 3 lbs cooked (chopped or shredded shrimp)
- 1 ½ cups celery (chopped )
- ½ cup onion (chopped )
- 1 Dash Worcestershire sauce
- 8 slices fried and crumbled bacon
- 1 ½ tsp garlic powder
- Crackers (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Shrimp
- Cook and finely chop or shred the shrimp if not pre-cooked.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add chopped shrimp, celery, onion, Worcestershire sauce, bacon, and garlic powder.
- Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.
Step 3: Shape the Ball
- Divide the mixture in half (if too large to manage) and form into one or two balls.
- Wrap each in plastic wrap.
Step 4: Chill
- Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes to firm up before serving.
Step 5: Serve
- Unwrap and place on a serving platter. Serve chilled with crackers.
Tips
- For a lighter version, replace some cream cheese with Greek yogurt or Neufchâtel.
- Roll the ball in chopped parsley, crushed nuts, or shredded cheese for extra flair.
- Make mini shrimp balls for individual servings or a party tray.
Nutrition
Calories: 299kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 20gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 109mgSodium: 1192mgPotassium: 351mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 615IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 52mgIron: 1mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!