Delicious Garlic Shrimp Gratin

This garlic shrimp gratin wows with golden cheese and a tender shrimp filling, all wrapped up in a comforting dish that takes very little effort. I love how it feels fancy enough for guests but is simple enough to whip up when the craving hits. The creamy sauce melds with the garlicky shrimp and the crisp topping to create forkful after forkful of pure bliss.

The first time I made this, it disappeared before I could even get seconds. My family now requests it on birthdays and chilly nights for its comfort and wow factor.

Ingredients

• Medium-sized shrimp: Choose firm shrimp that smells like the sea and has no discoloration for the best flavor and texture
• Fresh garlic: Adds punchy aromatic flavor Use plump unblemished cloves for best results
• Unsalted butter: Gives a rich smooth base Use good quality butter for extra creaminess
• Heavy cream: Brings luscious texture Look for cream with at least 36 percent fat for richness
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and gives gooey pull Use freshly shredded cheese for best result
• Parmesan cheese: Offers nutty salty flavor Grate it yourself if possible for a fresher taste
• Panko breadcrumbs: Provide an airy crunch on top Choose panko over regular breadcrumbs for the lightest result
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning Add gradually and taste as you go
• Fresh parsley: Adds freshness and color Choose crisp bright green leaves

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep and Sauté the Garlic:

Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat and stir in the minced garlic Let the garlic cook for a full minute to mellow the bite and let the butter soak up the aroma

Cook the Shrimp:

Add the peeled shrimp to the skillet Season with salt and pepper Cook gently until the shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through which takes about three to four minutes Overcooking will make shrimp rubbery so watch them closely

Make the Creamy Mixture:

In a mixing bowl combine the heavy cream mozzarella half of the Parmesan cheese and your just-cooked shrimp Stir so the cheese starts to melt and the shrimp get coated in flavor

Assemble in Baking Dish:

Spoon the creamy mixture into a greased baking dish that holds everything snugly This keeps the sauce thick Don’t forget to scrape every bit of garlic butter from the skillet into the mixture

Mix and Add Topping:

Toss the panko breadcrumbs with the remaining Parmesan and scatter this over the top of the shrimp mixture so every bite gets a golden crunchy finish

Bake:

Place the dish in a preheated oven and bake for twenty to twenty five minutes The gratin will become bubbly and the top beautifully golden Watch closely during the last minutes so the crust does not burn

Rest and Garnish:

Let the gratin rest for about five minutes before serving This thickens the sauce and makes serving easier Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and herby freshness

Pin

My favorite part is always the panko topping which turns so crisp and flavorful When my sister first tasted this gratin we laughed because she insisted on scraping every last bit of golden cheese off the pan

Storage Tips

Garlic shrimp gratin keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to cover it tightly so the sauce does not dry out. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at a low temperature just until hot to avoid overcooked shrimp and to help the topping stay crisp.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of heavy cream, you can swap in half and half or even a combination of Greek yogurt and milk for a lighter version. No mozzarella on hand Choose a good melty cheese like fontina or Monterey Jack. Gluten free panko or coarsely crushed rice crackers make a great crunchy topping if needed.

Serving Suggestions

This gratin is rich and loaded with flavor so I love serving it alongside a big green salad with a sharp vinaigrette. Crusty bread is also a must for scooping up the sauce. If you want to turn it into a full meal, try it with buttered noodles or plain rice.

A Bit of History

Gratin is a classic French technique where any dish is topped with cheese or breadcrumbs and then browned until bubbly. This shrimp version borrows from coastal French traditions where local seafood stars in comforting oven-baked meals.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?

Yes, thaw frozen shrimp thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking to ensure the gratin isn't watery.

→ What cheese works best for a gratin topping?

Mozzarella and Parmesan blend well, offering creaminess and a flavorful golden crust. Feel free to experiment with Gruyère or cheddar.

→ How can I make this lighter?

Swap part of the heavy cream for Greek yogurt or light cream to reduce richness while still preserving creaminess.

→ What sides pair well with shrimp gratin?

Serve with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or warm baguette to complement the rich flavors.

→ Can this gratin be made ahead of time?

Assemble the dish in advance, refrigerate, and bake just before serving. Add breadcrumbs right before baking for the best crunch.