If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances rich, creamy flavors with a delightful garlicky punch, my Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. This comforting, cheesy baked shrimp delight bubbles with luxurious cream and melts in your mouth with every bite. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re enjoying a little gourmet indulgence without spending hours in the kitchen. The shrimp stay tender and juicy beneath a crispy, golden breadcrumb topping that adds irresistible texture, making this recipe a true crowd-pleaser for dinner parties or cozy nights in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but carefully chosen ingredients is the key to nailing this recipe. Each one plays an essential role, from creating luscious sauce to adding crunchy topping and that distinctive garlicky depth which makes this dish sing.
- Large shrimp (1 lb or 450 g): Peeled and deveined, these are the star protein providing tender, juicy bites.
- Unsalted butter (2 tbsp): Adds richness and helps gently cook the shrimp without overpowering their delicate flavor.
- Garlic cloves (4, minced): This is where the magic begins—garlic infuses the dish with that signature savory warmth.
- Dry white wine or chicken broth (1/4 cup or 60 ml): Adds a subtle acidity and depth, perfect to lift the creamy sauce.
- Heavy cream (1 cup or 240 ml): Creates the luxuriously silky base that coats every shrimp.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup or 50 g): A sharp, nutty element that blends beautifully into the sauce.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1/4 cup or 60 g): Melts perfectly on top for a gooey, stretchy finish.
- Paprika (1/4 tsp, optional): Adds a slight smoky note and a pop of color to brighten the dish.
- Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup or 50 g): Preferably fresh, these create that golden, crunchy crust everyone loves.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Used to bind the breadcrumbs and achieve a flawless crisp topping.
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish that balances the richness.
How to Make Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to ensure the gratin doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly golden on the edges after baking. This simple step sets the stage for everything to cook evenly and beautifully in the oven.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Next, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook them for just 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink but are still slightly undercooked. This is important because they will finish cooking in the oven, keeping them tender and juicy rather than rubbery. Once done, remove the shrimp and set them aside. Trust me, perfectly cooked shrimp make all the difference here!
Step 3: Create the Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, throw in the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant—this releases that gorgeous garlicky aroma everyone loves. Then pour in the white wine or chicken broth, letting it simmer for a minute or two to reduce slightly. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese along with the paprika if you’re using it, mixing until the sauce feels silky smooth and full of flavor. This sauce ties the whole dish together with creamy, cheesy goodness and a punch of garlic.
Step 4: Assemble the Gratin
Now it’s time to layer the magic. Place your partially cooked shrimp evenly in the prepared baking dish, then pour the luscious garlic cream sauce over them. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top so it melts and bubbles beautifully in the oven. It’s this cheesy layer that seals in all those vibrant flavors.
Step 5: Add the Crunchy Breadcrumb Topping
Mix your breadcrumbs with olive oil until they’re lightly coated. This simple mixture ensures a golden, crisp topping that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy base underneath. Evenly sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture over the assembled gratin for that irresistible finishing touch.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the gratin in your preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes or until the top is bubbly and beautifully golden brown. The bubbling cheese and crisp breadcrumbs together create a textural symphony that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Once out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley not only brightens the flavors but also adds a lovely visual contrast to the creamy white and golden brown colors. You can also add a few thin lemon wedges alongside for guests who want a bit of zesty brightness to cut through the richness.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed asparagus, garlic butter green beans, or a crisp mixed salad to keep things balanced. For a hearty meal, serve it alongside garlic mashed potatoes or warm crusty bread to soak up all that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, consider serving individual portions in small ramekins instead of one big dish—perfect for dinner parties. Alternatively, you can serve the gratin over a bed of cooked pasta or creamy polenta, turning it into a whole comforting plate that feels extra special. Presentation is all about making it inviting and irresistible!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though it’s pretty rare), let the gratin cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 2 days, making it easy to enjoy later without losing flavor or texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe, ideally before baking. Assemble it as usual but don’t bake; cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. This is a great way to prep meals in advance and savor this dish whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the topping crisps back up, about 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that precious breadcrumb crunch intact. It tastes just as delightful the second time around!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?
Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly as long as you thaw and drain them well before cooking. This ensures the shrimp cook evenly and don’t release excess water that could thin out your sauce.
Is it necessary to use white wine in the recipe?
Not at all! The white wine adds a nice flavor depth, but chicken broth is an excellent substitute if you prefer to avoid alcohol or want something milder.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
While this gratin relies on cream and cheeses for its signature flavor and texture, you could experiment with dairy-free cream alternatives and vegan cheeses; just be aware the texture and taste will differ from the classic.
How spicy is this dish?
This Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe is mild and flavorful rather than spicy. The paprika is optional and adds a slight smoky warmth but no heat. You can always add a pinch of chili flakes if you want to ramp up the spice.
What kind of breadcrumbs should I use?
Fresh breadcrumbs are best for that crisp topping, but store-bought plain breadcrumbs also work well. For extra flavor, you can toast your breadcrumbs lightly with some herbs before adding them on top.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe truly shines when you crave something both comforting and elegant without fussing over complicated techniques. Its creamy, garlicky, cheesy layers with tender shrimp and that irresistible crunchy topping make it a real treat to share. I hope you give this recipe a try soon and enjoy every delicious, satisfying bite just as much as I do!
Print
Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Description
Garlic Shrimp Gratin is a creamy, flavorful seafood casserole featuring tender shrimp baked in a rich garlic-parmesan sauce, topped with a crispy mozzarella and breadcrumb crust. This easy-to-make dish combines succulent shrimp sautéed with garlic and white wine, smothered in a cheesy cream sauce, then baked until golden and bubbly. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant appetizer.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup (60 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
Topping
- 1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs (preferably freshly made)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink but remain slightly undercooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Using the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the dry white wine or chicken broth and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the heavy cream and continue simmering for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and paprika if using, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Gratin: Arrange the cooked shrimp evenly in the greased baking dish. Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the shrimp, ensuring they are well coated. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with olive oil to coat evenly. Sprinkle this mixture over the mozzarella layer to create a crispy crust when baked.
- Bake and Serve: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes until the gratin is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Once done, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Fresh shrimp can be substituted with frozen if properly thawed before cooking.
- For a non-alcoholic option, chicken broth works well instead of white wine.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella enhances the flavor and melting quality.
- Breadcrumbs can be homemade from stale bread for better texture and taste.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or crusty bread.
