Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe: Heavenly Comfort in Every Bite

Succulent shrimp dance with robust garlic in this mouthwatering garlic shrimp gratin recipe that promises a Mediterranean-inspired feast.

Crusty bread crumbs blanket plump seafood, creating a golden, crispy masterpiece.

Aromatic herbs and rich butter meld together, awakening every taste bud with intense flavor.

Each bite delivers a harmony of textures and sensations that transport you to coastal kitchens.

The dish comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings.

Minimal ingredients, maximum satisfaction define this classic preparation.

Serve this delectable gratin and watch as everyone around the table falls in love with its irresistible charm.

Garlic Shrimp Gratin Is a Crowd Pleaser

• Savor Authentic Mexican Comfort: Dive into a traditional sopa de fideo that brings the heart of Mexican home cooking right to your table with its rich, robust flavors.
• Master Quick Cooking Techniques: Learn the art of toasting noodles and creating a smooth tomato base, transforming simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality soup with minimal effort.
• Customize Your Culinary Creation: Personalize the dish with optional toppings like fresh cilantro, tangy queso fresco, or creamy avocado to suit your taste preferences and make the recipe your own.
• Nutritious One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy a balanced meal packed with vegetables, protein, and comforting noodles that comes together in just a few simple steps, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Garlic Shrimp Gratin Ingredient Checklist

• Shrimp: Succulent seafood that serves as the star of this creamy gratin dish.

• Heavy Cream, Mozzarella, Parmesan Cheese: Rich dairy ingredients that create a luxurious and creamy texture for the gratin.

• Garlic: Provides a robust and fragrant flavor base for the shrimp.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Panko Breadcrumbs: Adds a crispy and golden crust to the creamy shrimp mixture.

• Fresh Parsley: Brings a bright and fresh herbal note to finish the dish.

• Butter: Helps to sauté the garlic and provides a rich, smooth foundation for cooking the shrimp.

How to Make Garlic Shrimp Gratin at Home

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C) and get ready for a flavor explosion.

Step 2: Sizzle Garlic and Seafood

• Butter
• Garlic
• Shrimp
• Salt
• Pepper

Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.

Toss in minced garlic and let it dance around for a minute until it releases its incredible aroma. Add shrimp and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Cook until the shrimp turn a beautiful pink and are perfectly done, about 3-4 minutes. Scoop out the shrimp and set aside.

Step 3: Create Creamy Magic

• Heavy cream
• Mozzarella
• Parmesan cheese
• Cooked shrimp

Grab a mixing bowl and combine heavy cream, shredded mozzarella, half the Parmesan, and those delicious cooked shrimp. Stir until everything is beautifully blended.

Step 4: Build Your Flavor Base

Pour the dreamy shrimp and cream mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, creating a smooth canvas of deliciousness.

Step 5: Craft the Crunchy Topping

• Panko breadcrumbs
• Remaining Parmesan cheese

In a separate bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with the remaining Parmesan. Sprinkle this golden mixture over the creamy base, creating a crispy crown.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Watch for a golden-brown top that bubbles with anticipation.

Step 7: Finish and Feast

Pull the dish out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Serve hot and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

Notes to Perfect Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe

• Choose fresh, deveined shrimp for the best texture and flavor, ensuring they're not overcooked to maintain tenderness.
• Experiment with different cheeses like gruyère or fontina for a unique flavor profile that complements the shrimp.
• Toast panko breadcrumbs lightly in a dry pan before adding to enhance their golden-brown crunch and nutty taste.
• Pat shrimp dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture that could make the gratin watery and less creamy.
• Add fresh thyme or dill to the cream mixture for an extra layer of aromatic complexity that elevates the entire dish.

Fun Twists for Garlic Shrimp Gratin Casserole

• Seafood-Free Version: Replace shrimp with diced chicken breast, following the same cooking method and seasoning for a protein-packed alternative.
• Mediterranean Herb Upgrade: Add chopped fresh basil, oregano, and thyme to the cream mixture for an aromatic Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Keto Option: Swap panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour to create a crispy topping that maintains a low-carbohydrate approach.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, nutritional yeast in place of mozzarella, and dairy-free Parmesan cheese alternative to accommodate lactose-intolerant dietary needs.

Sides That Go With Garlic Shrimp Gratin

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the rich, creamy garlic shrimp, cutting through the dish's buttery texture and enhancing its delicate seafood flavors.
• Match with Crusty Bread: Serve a warm, crusty French baguette or artisan sourdough to soak up the luxurious cream sauce, providing a perfect textural contrast and additional carbohydrate balance.
• Create Fresh Side Salad: Prepare a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to add brightness and acidity, which will help refresh the palate between bites of the decadent garlic shrimp gratin.

Storing Garlic Shrimp Gratin for Next Day Meals

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the shrimp gratin in the coldest part of the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
• Wrap the cooled dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Place a label with the date to track storage time.
• Warm individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through to distribute heat evenly and prevent cold spots.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Cover the dish with foil to prevent burning. Warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through, removing foil in the last 3 minutes to crisp the breadcrumb topping.

FAQs

• What type of shrimp works best for this recipe?

Large or jumbo shrimp are ideal, preferably peeled and deveined. They provide the right texture and absorb flavors well, making the dish more delicious and easier to eat.

• Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before cooking. Excess moisture can make the gratin watery and prevent proper browning of the breadcrumb topping.

• Is this dish spicy?

No, this garlic shrimp gratin is not spicy. It has a rich, creamy flavor with garlic undertones. If you want heat, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the cream mixture.

Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe

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4.7 from 23 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent garlic shrimp gratin brings Mediterranean coastal charm straight to kitchen tables. Creamy textures and bold herbal notes dance together, promising a luxurious dining experience you’ll savor with each delightful bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound (454 grams) medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Toppings:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 375°F (190°C), creating the perfect environment for a golden, bubbling gratin.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat, releasing its rich aroma and preparing for the garlic’s introduction.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for one minute, allowing its intense flavor to permeate the butter.
4. Introduce shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until they transform into a delicate pink hue, approximately 3-4 minutes.
5. Remove shrimp from heat and set aside, preserving their tender texture.
6. Create a luxurious cream mixture by combining heavy cream, mozzarella, and half the Parmesan cheese in a mixing bowl.
7. Fold the cooked shrimp into the cream mixture, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
8. Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish and transfer the shrimp and cream mixture, spreading it uniformly.
9. Prepare the crispy topping by mixing panko breadcrumbs with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
10. Generously sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the creamy base, creating a textural contrast.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the top achieves a golden-brown, effervescent finish.
12. Allow the gratin to rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven.
13. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, adding a vibrant touch of color and freshness before serving.

Notes

• Swap traditional heavy cream with lighter alternatives like half-and-half or coconut milk for a healthier version.
• Toast breadcrumbs beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and create extra crispiness on top.
• Use frozen shrimp quickly thawed under cold water to save preparation time and maintain freshness.
• Reduce sodium by choosing low-salt butter and checking Parmesan cheese’s salt content before adding to the recipe.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 352 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 470 mg
• Fat: 27 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 26 g
• Cholesterol: 195 mg