If you’re searching for a creamy, flavorful appetizer that will wow your guests or simply satisfy your own cravings, this Hot and Cheesy Baked Shrimp Scampi Dip Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines succulent shrimp, gooey melted cheeses, and vibrant garlic and lemon notes baked to bubbly perfection. The blend of textures and rich flavors creates a dip that’s both comforting and elegant, perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without stress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows one clear glass bowl with thick white cottage cheese inside, having a rough and lumpy texture. There is a silver spoon resting inside the bowl on the right side, slightly covered with the cottage cheese. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for a simple but thoughtfully selected group of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building that indulgent shrimp scampi flavor and luscious texture. From creamy cheeses to fresh herbs and punchy garlic, the balance here is what makes this dip unforgettable.

Cream cheese (8 oz, room temperature): Provides a smooth, rich base that makes the dip luxuriously creamy.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Adds melty stretch and a mild, milky flavor.
Sour cream (1 cup): Brings tanginess and lightness that keeps the dip from feeling too heavy.
Mayonnaise (½ cup): Enhances moisture and creaminess for a beautifully smooth texture.
Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup, divided): Adds sharp, nutty depth with its distinctive salty bite.
Panko breadcrumbs (4 tablespoons, divided): Give a golden, crispy topping that contrasts perfectly with the creamy interior.
Kosher salt (1 teaspoon, divided): Balances and enhances all the flavors throughout the dish.
Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons, divided): Used to sauté shrimp and garlic, lending a rich, buttery aroma.
Fresh shrimp (1 pound, peeled, deveined, tails removed): The star ingredient providing tender, juicy bites bursting with ocean freshness.
Garlic (6 cloves, minced): Delivers that classic scampi punch, pungent and aromatic.
Red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon): Offer just a hint of heat to awaken the palate.
Dry white wine (½ cup): Chardonnay is ideal for a subtle fruity complexity and to deglaze the pan, capturing all the garlic and butter flavors.
Fresh parsley (½ cup, chopped): Brings a bright, herbal freshness.
Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Adds a sunny citrus lift that cuts through the richness.
Toasted bread rounds, crackers, or chips: Perfect vehicles for scooping up all the cheesy shrimp goodness.

How to Make Hot and Cheesy Baked Shrimp Scampi Dip Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Sauté the Shrimp

Begin by melting a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp with half the kosher salt, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Sauté just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Then, deglaze the pan with white wine, letting it simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly and soak up all those garlicky, buttery flavors that are the heart of any great scampi.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

While the shrimp cool slightly, in a large mixing bowl combine the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, half of the Parmesan cheese, and the remaining kosher salt. Stir until smooth and creamy—this luscious mixture will carry all the flavor and give your dip that irresistible richness.

Step 3: Combine Shrimp and Cheese Mixture

Chop the sautéed shrimp roughly, then fold them gently into the creamy base along with the fresh parsley and lemon zest. This adds bursts of brightness and freshness that balance the richness perfectly.

Step 4: Assemble and Top the Dip

Transfer the shrimp mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the top evenly with shredded mozzarella cheese, remaining Parmesan, and panko breadcrumbs. Dot with the remaining butter cut into small pieces to help the topping crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. The breadcrumbs create a crunchy crust while the cheeses underneath melt into a luscious, warm dip that you won’t be able to resist.

How to Serve Hot and Cheesy Baked Shrimp Scampi Dip Recipe

A close-up view of tiny light pink shrimp cooking in a pan filled with a thin, shiny, light yellow liquid. The shrimp are scattered evenly across the pan, with some pieces showing a slight orange tint. A wooden spatula with a smooth texture rests on the right side of the pan, partly submerged in the liquid. The background surface has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few additional twists of lemon zest right before serving can elevate the dish visually and add a refreshing aroma that makes each bite even more delightful.

Side Dishes

This dip pairs wonderfully with crusty toasted bread rounds, buttery crackers, or even crisp vegetable sticks like celery and cucumber for a lighter contrast. It’s equally great as part of a party spread alongside olives, roasted nuts, and fresh fruit.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning display, serve the Hot and Cheesy Baked Shrimp Scampi Dip Recipe in a hollowed-out bread bowl or individual ramekins. Adding lemon wedges and a small parsley sprig on the side invites everyone to personalize their bites while creating a charming presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover dip to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it an equally delicious treat the next day.

Freezing

This dip freezes well if packed tightly in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just keep in mind that the texture of the cream cheese may change slightly upon thawing, but reheating it gently will bring back most of its original creaminess.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers, reheat the dip in a small oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring regularly to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for the Hot and Cheesy Baked Shrimp Scampi Dip Recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works just fine. Just be sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before cooking to avoid excess moisture in your dip.

What type of wine is best for this recipe?

A dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavor without overpowering the dish. Avoid sweet wines which can disrupt the savory balance.

Is there a way to make this dip less spicy?

Absolutely! Simply omit or reduce the red pepper flakes to your taste for a milder version that still shines with garlic and lemon.

Can I prepare this dip in advance?

Yes, you can mix the dip ingredients and refrigerate up to a day ahead; just add the breadcrumb topping and bake right before serving for best texture.

What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers make a fine substitute, though the topping may be slightly less crispy.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Hot and Cheesy Baked Shrimp Scampi Dip Recipe that makes it a go-to whenever you want an impressive, crowd-pleasing appetizer. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and full of comforting, melt-in-your-mouth cheesy goodness. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become a beloved favorite that you’ll want to serve again and again.