Garlic Shrimp Gratin

by
Print Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Shrimp Gratin is a decadent, comforting dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers. With succulent shrimp smothered in a rich, creamy garlic sauce and baked to golden, bubbly perfection, this gratin offers an indulgent twist on traditional shrimp dishes. The delicate flavors of garlic, butter, and cheese complement the shrimp perfectly, making each bite irresistible. Ideal for a special dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, Garlic Shrimp Gratin is guaranteed to impress.

I remember the first time I made this for a family dinner. The rich, buttery aroma filled the kitchen, and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in. What’s amazing about Garlic Shrimp Gratin is how simple yet luxurious it feels. The combination of tender shrimp and creamy sauce, topped with a crispy, golden cheese crust, is truly a showstopper. You can serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce or a light salad to balance out the richness.

This dish is surprisingly easy to make, too. With just a few basic ingredients, like shrimp, garlic, butter, and cheese, you can create a truly indulgent meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or treating yourself to something extraordinary, Garlic Shrimp Gratin is sure to become a favorite!

Perfect for:

  • Special occasions
  • Family dinners
  • Seafood lovers
  • Elegant yet simple meals
  • Dinner parties

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Garlic Shrimp Gratin will be your new go-to recipe:

  • Creamy Garlic Sauce: The rich, buttery garlic sauce is indulgent and full of flavor, perfectly complementing the shrimp.
  • Golden, Crispy Top: The grated cheese and breadcrumb topping create a crispy, golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
  • Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in no time, making it an excellent choice for both busy weekdays and special occasions.
  • Tender Shrimp: The shrimp stay perfectly tender and juicy, absorbing all the delicious flavors of the sauce.
  • Impressive Presentation: The bubbling gratin looks as impressive as it tastes, making it perfect for entertaining.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Garlic Shrimp Gratin:

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

For the Topping:

  • ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Ingredient Highlights

  • Shrimp: The star of the dish, shrimp adds a delicate yet satisfying flavor.
  • Heavy Cream: Provides the luxurious, creamy texture for the garlic sauce.
  • Cheese: Parmesan and mozzarella add richness and a gooey, golden crust on top.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: Create a light, crispy topping that contrasts with the creamy sauce.
  • Lemon Zest and Parsley: Add a fresh and zesty finish to the dish, enhancing the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Garlic Shrimp Gratin:

Prepare the Shrimp:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or gratin dish.
  2. Cook the Shrimp: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper and sauté for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the Garlic Sauce:

  1. Melt Butter and Cook Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  2. Add Heavy Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese, allowing the mixture to melt and form a smooth sauce.
  3. Add Fresh Parsley and Lemon Zest: Stir in the chopped parsley and lemon zest (if using), and season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Gratin:

  1. Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Place the cooked shrimp in the prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the shrimp, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  2. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the shrimp and sauce.

Bake the Gratin:

  1. Bake the Dish: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
  2. Broil for a Crispier Top (optional): For an extra crispy finish, broil the gratin for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon wedges if desired. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad.

How to Serve

  • With a Side of Vegetables: Serve with roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or a light green salad to balance the richness of the gratin.
  • With Crusty Bread: Pair with a warm baguette or garlic bread to scoop up the creamy sauce.
  • Over Rice or Pasta: Serve over a bed of fluffy rice or your favorite pasta for a heartier meal.
  • As an Appetizer: Serve smaller portions as a delicious appetizer at a dinner party.

Additional Tips

  • Make sure the shrimp are fully cooked but not overcooked before adding them to the dish, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
  • You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich.
  • For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce.
  • You can make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it, baking just before serving.

Recipe Variations

  1. Spicy Garlic Shrimp Gratin – Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for some heat.
  2. Cajun Garlic Shrimp Gratin – Use Cajun seasoning in place of the garlic for a bold twist.
  3. Herb Garlic Shrimp Gratin – Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil to the sauce for an herbaceous touch.
  4. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Gratin – Increase the lemon zest and add a bit of lemon juice for extra tang.
  5. Garlic Shrimp and Spinach Gratin – Add a handful of fresh spinach to the shrimp before topping with the sauce.
  6. Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Gratin – Add more cheese like Gruyère or cheddar for an even cheesier version.
  7. Vegan Garlic Shrimp Gratin – Use plant-based shrimp and a dairy-free cream sauce.
  8. Garlic Shrimp Gratin with Tomatoes – Add diced tomatoes for a burst of freshness in the dish.
  9. Garlic Shrimp Gratin with Mushrooms – Add sautéed mushrooms to the dish for an earthy flavor.
  10. Garlic Shrimp Gratin with Broccoli – Incorporate steamed broccoli for a vegetable-packed version.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Allow the gratin to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until hot and bubbly.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Special Equipment

  • Oven-safe baking dish or gratin dish
  • Skillet
  • Grater for the cheese
  • Zester for lemon zest

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat dry before cooking.
  2. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking, then bake when ready to serve.
  3. Can I substitute the cream with milk? Heavy cream creates a richer sauce, but you can use milk for a lighter version.
  4. Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or omit them entirely.
  5. Can I add other seafood? Yes, you can add scallops or lobster tails for a more luxurious dish.

Conclusion

Indulge in the creamy, garlicky goodness of Garlic Shrimp Gratin, where tender shrimp are enveloped in a rich, flavorful sauce and baked to perfection with a golden, bubbly top. The combination of savory garlic, buttery cream, and succulent shrimp creates a dish that’s both luxurious and comforting.

Perfect for a special dinner or even a cozy weeknight treat, this dish is sure to impress anyone at the table. With its irresistible aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture, Garlic Shrimp Gratin is a guaranteed hit!

I’d love to see how your Garlic Shrimp Gratin turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!

Leave a Comment