Few things are as comforting as a creamy, cheesy Garlic Shrimp Gratin straight from the oven. Now, picture enhancing that classic delight with succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and a crispy, golden crust. You’ve just taken your dinner to extraordinary heights and if you love meals like this, don’t miss our other irresistible chicken recipes.
Recipe Guide :
One chilly winter night, I stumbled upon this dish while craving something indulgent yet quick to make. What followed was a meal that could rival any five-star restaurant experience, achieved with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Believe me, you’ll want to revisit this recipe time and time again!
Star Ingredients
Before we jump into the preparation, let’s explore the charm of these ingredients. This dish celebrates simplicity, with each element playing a vital role:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Let’s Start Cooking
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial to ensuring an evenly baked gratin that’s delightfully golden and bubbly when finished.
Expert Tip: Opt for a 9×9-inch glass baking dish to ensure uniform cooking and simplify cleanup.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp and Garlic
Begin by melting three tablespoons of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Introduce four cloves of minced garlic, sautéing for about a minute until it releases its delightful fragrance—it’s mesmerizing, isn’t it? Ensure it doesn’t burn, as garlic swiftly transitions from golden to bitter.If you enjoy recipes like this, you’ll love our collection of flavorful seafood recipes.
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet and sprinkle with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn a lovely shade of pink. Once perfectly cooked, remove from heat and set aside.
A Step-by-Step Guide with Insider Tips
With your shrimp now perfectly cooked and set to star in the dish, it’s time to unite all the elements into a dreamy, cheesy masterpiece. This is where the culinary magic truly unfolds. Let’s assemble it and bake it to golden perfection!
Step 3: Craft the Gratin Mixture
In a spacious bowl, mix together these ingredients:
Revitalize the Creamy Base
One cup of rich, velvety heavy cream
- This rich component is crucial for achieving the gratin’s smooth and velvety texture.
1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
Half of the grated Parmesan cheese (reserve the remainder for the topping)
- The shrimp you sautéed in Step 2.
- Gently mix all ingredients, ensuring that the shrimp is thoroughly enveloped in the creamy, cheesy bliss. For those who enjoy an additional kick, consider adding a pinch of Italian herbs or a dash of smoked paprika to infuse the dish with a subtle, nuanced flavor.
Pro tip: Allow the shrimp to cool slightly before incorporating it into the cheese and cream. This step ensures the cheese doesn’t melt too early, resulting in a smooth, well-blended mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Gently pour the luscious shrimp mixture into your prepped baking dish, ensuring an even layer. Next, generously dust the top with the reserved Parmesan cheese for a rich, cheesy crust. Top it off with breadcrumbs for added texture and a delightful crunch. This setup creates a beautifully layered gratin, delivering a burst of flavor in every mouthful.
Use your greased 9×9-inch baking dish (or a comparable oven-safe dish) to transfer the shrimp mixture. Evenly distribute it to ensure each mouthful is balanced with flavor. Now, the rich, creamy base awaits its crowning achievement: the topping.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine:
- Half a cup of crunchy panko breadcrumbs
- The rest of the grated Parmesan cheese.
- This straightforward combination of breadcrumbs and cheese is the secret to achieving the gratin’s mouthwatering golden crust. Liberally sprinkle it over the shrimp and cream mixture, making sure to cover the entire surface for optimal crunchiness.
For a delightful touch, lightly drizzle melted butter over the breadcrumbs. This will ensure they achieve a perfectly crisp texture in the oven.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide your prepared gratin into the preheated oven, allowing it to bake for 20–25 minutes until the top achieves a golden-brown hue and the edges are bubbling. Keep a close eye during the last few minutes to avoid excessive browning. Soon, your kitchen will be enveloped in the tantalizing aroma of garlic, butter, and cheese—sheer bliss.
Expert tip: For an ultra-crispy topping, switch to the broil setting during the final 2–3 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid any accidental burning!
Personalizing Your Gratin
The appeal of this recipe is its flexibility. Try these options to make it your own:
- Include Vegetables: Incorporate cooked spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for additional color and texture.
- Add Some Heat: If you’re a fan of spice, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cream mixture.
- Change the Protein: If shrimp isn’t your favorite, this recipe is equally delicious with cooked chicken, scallops, or a seafood medley featuring crab and lobster.
Perfect Pairings
The richness of this Garlic Shrimp Gratin is perfectly complemented by lighter side dishes:
- A refreshing green salad with tangy vinaigrette perfectly balances the rich flavors. Opt for steamed asparagus or roasted green beans as a straightforward, sophisticated vegetable accompaniment. Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast to savor every bit of the luscious sauce.
Conclusion: Bringing It All Together
Garlic Shrimp Gratin offers more than just a recipe; it invites you to savor rich, comforting flavors that are both indulgent and simple to prepare. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests at a dinner party or seeking a delightful meal for a cozy night in, this dish is sure to be the star of the show.
The blend of succulent shrimp, savory garlic cream sauce, a crispy, golden topping ensures a delightful medley of flavors and textures that guests will find irresistible, prompting them to return for more helpings. Feel free to explore various add-ins or pairings to tailor this dish to your personal taste.
Garlic Shrimp Gratin
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs preferably panko for extra crunch
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Cook Shrimp: In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes until pink. Set aside.
- Make Sauce: In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in wine and cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Assemble: Add shrimp back into the skillet. Transfer to the baking dish.
- Top: Sprinkle Parmesan and breadcrumbs over the shrimp.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
🍽️ Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 340 kcal |
| Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 11g |
| Cholesterol | 190mg |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fiber | 0.5g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Sodium | 580mg |
Note: Nutrition may vary based on ingredients used.
FAQs
1. Is it possible to use frozen shrimp?
Certainly! You can use frozen shrimp, but ensure they’re fully thawed beforehand. Dry them thoroughly with paper towels to eliminate excess moisture, as this can weaken the gratin’s flavors.
2. What are some alternatives to heavy cream?
To create a lighter gratin, consider using half-and-half or whole milk combined with a tablespoon of flour for thickening. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream is a fantastic substitute, though it will impart a mild coconut flavor.
3. Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the gratin ahead of time by assembling it right up to the addition of the topping.Wrap and refrigerate it for up to a day.When you’re set to bake, simply add the breadcrumb topping and bake following the instructions. Consider extending the baking time by about 5–10 minutes to account for the chill.
4. What’s the optimal method for storing leftovers?
To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until they’re warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker, individual serving option.Keep any remaining gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Is it possible to freeze Garlic Shrimp Gratin?
You can freeze the dish, but be aware that the cream and cheese texture might alter a bit after thawing. To freeze, prepare the gratin up to the topping step, wrap it well, and store it in the freezer for up to a month. When ready to use, thaw it in the fridge overnight, add the topping, and bake according to the instructions.
6. How should I reheat this dish for the best results?
To maintain a crispy topping, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C). Cover it with foil loosely to avoid over-browning, and remove the foil during the final minutes to bring back the crunch.
7. Is it possible to include additional cheese?
Absolutely! This dish is highly adaptable. Enhance it with more mozzarella for added gooeyness or Gruyère for a rich, nutty taste. Cheese enthusiasts, celebrating—this recipe is your playground!