Delicious Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe

There's nothing quite like the rich, buttery aroma of Garlic Shrimp Gratin bubbling away in the oven. The combination of plump, juicy shrimp, a creamy garlic-infused sauce, and a golden, crispy cheese topping makes this dish an irresistible comfort food.

I first discovered this dish while searching for an easy yet elegant dinner option for a last-minute get-together. It was an instant hit! Not only does it come together in under 30 minutes, but it also delivers a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Shrimp Gratin

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that's as simple as it is indulgent.

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples and a quick prep time, this gratin is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner parties.

Next, it’s bursting with flavor. The garlic and butter meld beautifully with the shrimp, while the cheesy, golden-brown crust adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.

It's also versatile. Serve it as an appetizer, over pasta, or even with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the creamy sauce.

Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're cooking for seafood lovers or looking to impress your guests, this dish never disappoints.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Garlic Shrimp Gratin lies in its simple yet well-balanced ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect harmony of textures and flavors.

Shrimp – Opt for large, fresh or frozen shrimp that have been peeled and deveined. Fresh shrimp will offer the best texture, but frozen works just as well when properly thawed.

Garlic – The heart of this dish. Use fresh garlic for the most aromatic and robust flavor. Minced garlic releases its natural oils, enhancing the dish’s rich and savory notes.

Butter and Heavy Cream – These two ingredients create a luscious, creamy base for the gratin. The butter adds richness, while the heavy cream ensures a smooth, velvety texture.

Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese – A combination of cheeses gives this dish its signature golden crust. Parmesan provides a nutty depth, while mozzarella melts beautifully for that perfect cheesy pull.

Breadcrumbs – A light dusting of panko breadcrumbs gives the gratin its signature crispy topping. Mixing them with melted butter before sprinkling ensures an even, golden-brown finish.

How To Make This Garlic Shrimp Gratin

Creating this mouthwatering Garlic Shrimp Gratin is easier than you might think. Here’s how you can bring it to life.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, prepare your shrimp by patting them dry with a paper towel. Removing excess moisture helps them cook evenly and prevents a watery gratin.

In a skillet over medium heat, melt a generous amount of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.

Next, stir in the heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Once thickened, gently fold in the shrimp, ensuring they are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.

Transfer the shrimp mixture into an oven-safe baking dish. Sprinkle an even layer of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top, followed by the buttered breadcrumbs.

Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. For an extra-crispy top, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—this Garlic Shrimp Gratin stores well!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Since seafood can lose its freshness quickly, it’s best to enjoy this dish sooner rather than later.

To reheat, place the gratin in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy sauce can separate upon thawing, affecting the texture of the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

This Garlic Shrimp Gratin is easy to tweak based on your preferences and dietary needs.

For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt. This will reduce the richness while maintaining a creamy texture.

Want to add more depth? Try incorporating a splash of white wine into the garlic butter sauce before adding the cream. It enhances the overall flavor with a hint of acidity.

For a low-carb option, replace the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or simply omit them. The cheese alone creates a beautifully golden crust.

If you're out of Parmesan, try Gruyère or even sharp cheddar. Both will melt beautifully and add a slightly different yet delicious twist.

This dish is also great with extra seafood—feel free to mix in scallops, crab, or even chunks of white fish for a seafood medley.

No matter how you customize it, this Garlic Shrimp Gratin is guaranteed to be a hit. Try it once, and it just might become a staple in your recipe collection!

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