Imagine a dish that combines the succulent sweetness of perfectly seared shrimp with a molten, bubbling sea of artisanal cheeses and roasted garlic. This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Dip is more than just an appetizer; it is a culinary experience designed to be the centerpiece of your next gathering.

Whether you are hosting a sophisticated cocktail party, a cozy game night, or a holiday dinner, this dip delivers a rich, savory profile that keeps guests coming back for “just one more” scoop. The contrast between the golden-brown, caramelized cheese crust and the velvety, indulgent center makes it visually stunning and flavorfully complex. Served alongside crispy, buttered baguette slices, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and high-end gourmet dining.

Ingredients and Their Essential Roles

• Large Shrimp (Peeled and Deveined): The star of the show. We use large shrimp to ensure they stay juicy during the baking process, providing a meaty texture in every bite.
• Cream Cheese (Softened): This acts as the creamy foundation of the dip, providing a smooth, tangy base that carries all the other flavors.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Known for its iconic cheese pull, Mozzarella adds a mild creaminess and helps create that beautiful bubbly top.
• Sharp White Cheddar: Adds a necessary boldness and depth, cutting through the richness of the cream cheese with its aged tang.
• Fresh Garlic (Minced): Aromatics are key. Fresh garlic provides a pungent kick that mellows into a sweet, nutty flavor when baked.
• Heavy Cream: A splash of heavy cream ensures the dip remains silky and dip-able.
• Fresh Chives: Offers a delicate onion-like brightness that cuts through the heavy fats.
• Old Bay Seasoning: To give the shrimp a subtle smoky undertone and coastal spice.

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

1. Sauté the Shrimp: In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tbsp of butter. Add shrimp and Old Bay seasoning. Sauté for 1–2 minutes per side until pink but not fully cooked. Roughly chop half the shrimp; keep the rest whole for garnish.
2. Create the Creamy Base: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, half the shredded cheeses, garlic, and heavy cream. Fold in the chopped shrimp and fresh chives.
3. Assemble and Layer: Transfer to a ceramic baking dish. Smooth the top and press the whole shrimp into the surface. Sprinkle with the remaining Mozzarella and Cheddar.
4. Bake to Golden Perfection: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 15–20 minutes. Use the broiler for the last 2 minutes to achieve a professional charred crust.
5. Rest and Garnish: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with remaining fresh chives before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Toasted Baguette: Slice diagonally and toast until golden and crunchy.
• Vegetable Crudités: Serve with chilled cucumber slices or bell pepper strips for a lighter, low-carb crunch.
• Kettle Chips: The extreme saltiness provides a fantastic contrast to the creamy seafood texture.