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Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Dip - Creamy, Savory, and Perfect for Sharing

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Shrimp: 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped (small to medium size works best)
  • Butter: 4 tablespoons, divided
  • Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
  • Garlic: 4–5 cloves, finely minced
  • Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for heat)
  • Dry white wine or broth: 1/4 cup (Sauvignon Blanc or chicken broth)
  • Lemon: Zest of 1 lemon and 1–2 tablespoons fresh juice
  • Cream cheese: 8 ounces, softened
  • Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup
  • Greek yogurt or sour cream: 1/4 cup
  • Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, finely grated
  • Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup, shredded (plus extra for topping)
  • Fresh parsley: 2–3 tablespoons, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper: To taste
  • For serving: Toasted baguette slices, crackers, pita chips, or veggie sticks

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
  2. Prep the shrimp: Pat shrimp dry and chop into bite-size pieces. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  3. Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons butter and the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant, not browned.
  4. Cook the shrimp: Add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes, stirring, until just opaque. Do not overcook—they’ll finish in the oven.
  5. Deglaze: Pour in the wine or broth and simmer 1 minute to reduce slightly. Stir in 1 tablespoon butter, lemon zest, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Taste and season. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  6. Make the creamy base: In a bowl, mix cream cheese, mayo, and yogurt until smooth. Fold in Parmesan, mozzarella, and most of the parsley (save some for garnish). Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
  7. Combine: Fold the garlicky shrimp and pan juices into the cheese mixture. If it seems too thick, add another teaspoon of lemon juice or a splash of broth.
  8. Assemble: Spread mixture into the prepared dish. Top with a small handful of extra mozzarella and dot with the remaining 1 tablespoon butter for a golden finish.
  9. Bake: Bake 15–18 minutes, until bubbly at the edges and lightly browned on top. For extra color, broil 1–2 minutes, watching closely.
  10. Finish and serve: Sprinkle with remaining parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon if you like. Serve hot with toasted bread, crackers, or veggies.