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–+ servings
Shrimp Balls from Elva Treyz
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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 165 kcal

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

  • Add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Replace bacon with smoked paprika for a lighter version.
  • Serve with crackers, celery sticks, crostini, or cucumber slices.
  • Add chopped parsley or green onion for color.
  • Chill longer for a firmer, more sliceable ball.
  • Roll the finished ball in chopped nuts (almonds or pecans) for crunch.

Nutrition

Calories: 165kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 8gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 63mgSodium: 310mgPotassium: 85mgSugar: 2gVitamin A: 445IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 45mgIron: 0.4mg
Keyword bacon, cheese ball, holiday treats, party appetizers, retro appetizer, seafood spread, shrimp, shrimp dip
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