Delicious Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of bubbling cheese and garlic filling your kitchen. This Garlic Shrimp Gratin is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with juicy shrimp, all baked to golden perfection.

I first made this dish on a chilly evening when I wanted something rich and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, it quickly became a household favorite. Now, it's my go-to recipe when I need a dish that’s both elegant and effortless.

This gratin is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for guests. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Shrimp Gratin

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite seafood dish. This Garlic Shrimp Gratin is the ultimate combination of indulgence and simplicity.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques—just a handful of pantry staples and a few minutes of prep.

It’s also bursting with flavor. The rich, garlicky cream sauce perfectly complements the tender shrimp, while the crispy, golden cheese topping adds the perfect finishing touch.

If you’re looking for a versatile dish, this recipe fits the bill. Serve it with crusty bread, over pasta, or even as a dip for a more casual gathering.

And best of all, it’s quick and hassle-free. You can have it on the table in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

Now, let’s take a look at the simple yet delicious ingredients that make this dish shine!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Garlic Shrimp Gratin lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Every component plays a key role in creating a rich, creamy, and irresistible dish.

Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well, but I recommend using large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

Garlic: The star of this dish! Freshly minced garlic provides a bold, aromatic flavor that enhances the creaminess of the gratin.

Heavy Cream: This forms the base of the sauce, creating a luscious, velvety texture. For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich.

Cheese: A mix of Parmesan and mozzarella creates the perfect balance of salty, nutty, and gooey goodness. The mozzarella melts beautifully, while the Parmesan adds depth of flavor.

Breadcrumbs: A layer of buttery, golden breadcrumbs on top adds an irresistible crunch. Panko breadcrumbs work best for extra crispiness.

A shallow baking dish is ideal for gratins, as it allows for even cooking and perfect browning on top. Now, let’s get cooking!

How to Make This Garlic Shrimp Gratin

This Garlic Shrimp Gratin comes together in just a few simple steps. Here’s how to make it perfectly every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or olive oil to prevent sticking.

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

Add the shrimp and cook for just 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink. They’ll finish cooking in the oven, so don’t overcook them at this stage. Remove from heat and set aside.

Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in Parmesan cheese and a pinch of salt and pepper. Simmer for a minute until the sauce slightly thickens, then remove from heat.

Transfer the shrimp and sauce to your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden-brown crust. For an extra crispy top, switch the oven to broil for the last minute.

Let it cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy with toasted bread or over pasta for a satisfying meal!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely!), this gratin stores well for later enjoyment.

For refrigeration, transfer any remaining gratin to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors will deepen, making it just as delicious when reheated.

To freeze, let the gratin cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For reheating, place it in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Garlic Shrimp Gratin is how easily you can customize it.

For a spicier twist, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce for a subtle kick.

If you love extra seafood, mix in scallops or lump crab meat for a luxurious upgrade.

For a healthier version, swap out heavy cream for Greek yogurt or a light cream alternative. The texture won’t be as rich, but it will still be delicious.

Want to make it gluten-free? Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether for a cheesy, crustless gratin.

Experiment with different cheeses! A blend of Gruyère and cheddar adds a deep, nutty flavor, while feta can bring a tangy, Mediterranean twist.

No matter how you customize it, this Garlic Shrimp Gratin is guaranteed to be a hit. Try it tonight and watch it disappear in minutes!

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