This Garlic Shrimp Gratin is a tasty dish featuring juicy shrimp baked in a creamy garlic sauce topped with golden cheese. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl!
If you’re like me and can’t resist anything cheesy, this is a winner. Perfect with bread for scooping up all that delicious sauce. Just be ready to share—if you want to! 🥖
Making this dish is so easy! Just mix, layer, and pop it in the oven. I love serving it at dinner parties; it always gets compliments and makes everyone smile!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp bring a nice bite to this dish. If shrimp aren’t available, consider using scallops or even pieces of white fish like cod for a different flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor. If you don’t have any, garlic powder can work in a pinch, but fresh is always better for that strong aroma.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. If you prefer a healthier option, you could substitute olive oil, but it may change the taste slightly.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, try half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. Just note, it may not be as rich.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano or a similar hard cheese can be a nice substitute, offering a sharper taste.
Bread Crumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work great, but for a crunchier topping, try panko breadcrumbs. Gluten-free options are also available if you need them.
How Do I Get the Shrimp Perfectly Cooked in This Gratin?
Cooking the shrimp just right is crucial. You want them tender, not rubbery. Here are some steps to ensure perfect shrimp:
- Start with medium heat and ensure the butter is melted but not browning.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer for even cooking.
- Watch closely—once they turn pink and curl up, they’re done in about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the shrimp from heat right away to prevent overcooking; they’ll continue to cook when baked in the oven.
Remember, undercooking slightly is better since they’ll bake in the rich cream and cheese mixture!
How to Make Garlic Shrimp Gratin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Shrimp Gratin will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your gratin cooks evenly and gets that beautiful, golden top.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, or until it’s fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn it, as garlic can cook quickly!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season them with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy! Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Combine with Cream and Cheese:
Next, stir in the heavy cream and half of the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet with the shrimp. Mix everything together until well combined. Add in the chopped parsley and stir again to incorporate all the flavors.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Take your shrimp mixture and pour it into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This helps ensure that every bite is delicious!
6. Prepare the Topping:
In a separate small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the remaining Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp in the baking dish. This will create a crispy topping when baked.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden and bubbly. Ah, the aroma!
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving. For a lovely touch, garnish with extra chopped parsley.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Garlic Shrimp Gratin warm, with lemon wedges on the side if desired. The zesty lemon adds a fresh kick! Enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to place them in the refrigerator overnight or for a quick thaw, submerge the shrimp in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before adding to the skillet to prevent excess moisture in the dish.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with a mixture of milk and cream cheese. Combine 3/4 cup of milk with 4 oz of cream cheese to get a similar creamy texture. Alternatively, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a baking dish and cover with foil to avoid drying out, then heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave; just be sure to stir occasionally for even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you love heat, consider adding more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the shrimp mixture. Start with a small amount and taste as you go to ensure it matches your spice preference!
