Garlic Shrimp Gratin

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a bubbling, golden-topped gratin to bring comfort to the table. When you add tender shrimp, a rich garlicky cream sauce, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, it becomes the kind of dish that has everyone asking for seconds (and thirds). This Garlic Shrimp Gratin is pure indulgence, combining the flavors of succulent shrimp, fragrant garlic, and creamy cheese with just the right amount of crunch.

I first made this gratin for a small family dinner, hoping to recreate a dish we’d had at a quaint seaside bistro. The first bite was a revelation—it instantly became a household favorite. What I love about this recipe is that it’s surprisingly easy to make while looking like something that took hours of effort. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a fancy dinner party when you want to impress your guests.

The beauty of this gratin is its versatility. You can serve it with crusty bread for dipping, toss it with pasta for a hearty meal, or pair it with a crisp side salad to balance the richness. Whichever way you go, this dish is guaranteed to shine. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe and bring the magic of creamy, garlicky shrimp gratin to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are a few reasons why this Garlic Shrimp Gratin will become your new favorite:

• Effortlessly Elegant: Despite its gourmet appearance, this dish comes together in under an hour. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dinner party centerpiece.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and cheese creates a sauce that’s rich, savory, and utterly crave-worthy. Add in the natural sweetness of shrimp, and you’ve got a winning dish.
• Crispy Topping: The golden breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch, balancing the creamy filling beautifully.
• Versatile: Serve it as a main course, an appetizer, or even as a side dish for a larger meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser no matter how you present it.

Picture this: tender, juicy shrimp nestled in a creamy, cheesy garlic sauce, topped with a golden, buttery breadcrumb crust. The aroma alone will have your family rushing to the table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish will make you feel like a pro in the kitchen.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 40 minutes (20 minutes prep, 20 minutes cooking)
• Servings: Serves 4 as a main dish or 6 as an appetizer.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 15g
• Fat: 22g

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this creamy, garlicky delight:

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star of the dish, offering sweetness and succulence.
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness to the sauce and helps crisp up the topping.
• 4 garlic cloves (minced): Provides bold, fragrant flavor.
• 1/4 cup white onion (finely chopped): Adds a touch of sweetness to the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the velvety base of the gratin.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For a cheesy, umami-packed sauce.
• 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded): Melts beautifully, adding gooeyness to the dish.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko): The key to a crispy, golden topping.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped): Brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth to the topping.
• Salt and black pepper: To season the shrimp and sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1st Step: Prep the Shrimp

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

2nd step: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

1. In a medium-sized skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until fragrant and the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, mixing until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
5. Remove from heat and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

3rd step: Assemble the Gratin

1. Spread the shrimp evenly in a shallow baking dish or gratin dish.
2. Pour the garlic cream sauce over the shrimp, ensuring each piece is coated.

4th step: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, and chopped parsley.
2. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and drizzle it over the breadcrumb mixture. Toss until evenly coated.

5th step: Bake the Gratin

1. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the shrimp and sauce.
2. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the topping is golden brown.
3. For an extra-crispy topping, switch to the broiler setting for the last 2 minutes of cooking.

How to Serve

This Garlic Shrimp Gratin is wonderfully versatile. Here are a few serving ideas to make the most of it:

• With Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up all that creamy, garlicky sauce.
• Over Pasta: Toss the shrimp and sauce with linguine or fettuccine for a hearty, restaurant-style meal.
• Paired with a Salad: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the gratin.

Additional Tips

1. Choose the Right Shrimp: Use large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture. Smaller shrimp may overcook too quickly.
2. Drain the Shrimp: Patting the shrimp dry helps them cook evenly and prevents excess liquid from diluting the sauce.
3. Use Fresh Breadcrumbs: For the crispiest topping, make your own breadcrumbs by pulsing day-old bread in a food processor.
4. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep an eye on the gratin—shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overbaked.
5. Add Zest: For a burst of freshness, grate some lemon zest over the gratin before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp with sliced mushrooms or zucchini for a veggie-packed gratin.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers for the topping.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic cream sauce for a little heat.
• Cheese Swap: Experiment with Gruyère or Fontina cheese for a different flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover gratin in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Assemble the gratin (without baking) and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may affect the topping’s texture.

Special Equipment

• Gratin Dish: A shallow baking dish ensures even cooking and a golden topping.
• Fine Mesh Strainer: Useful for draining shrimp thoroughly before cooking.
• Microplane: For grating Parmesan or adding a touch of lemon zest.

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before using them in the recipe. To thaw frozen shrimp, place them in a colander under cold running water for a few minutes or leave them in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture in the gratin.

Can I make this Garlic Shrimp Gratin ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead of time for convenience. You can assemble everything (except the breadcrumb topping) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add the breadcrumb topping and bake as directed. For best results, add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the gratin is cold from the fridge.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that using these substitutes will result in a slightly lighter sauce, but the flavor will still be rich and delicious. For a more decadent option, you can also use sour cream or cream cheese, though it may alter the flavor slightly.

Can I add vegetables to this Garlic Shrimp Gratin?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and adding vegetables can boost its flavor and nutrition. Spinach, asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms would make excellent additions. Simply sauté the vegetables before adding them to the gratin so they release any moisture before being baked.

How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, transfer the gratin to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. If you’d like to freeze it, assemble the gratin without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, thaw the dish overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.

Can I make this dish without the breadcrumb topping?
While the breadcrumb topping adds a delicious crispy texture, you can skip it if you prefer. If you’d like a similar texture, try using crushed crackers or potato chips for a unique twist. Alternatively, you can also top it with more cheese for a gooey finish.

Print

Conclusion

There you have it—the ultimate Garlic Shrimp Gratin that’s equal parts indulgent and effortless. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a dinner party with friends, this dish is bound to impress. The combination of creamy garlic sauce, tender shrimp, and a crispy breadcrumb topping is pure magic.

I’d love to hear how this gratin turns out in your kitchen! Snap a photo, share your creation on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious results.