Garlic Shrimp Gratin is a dish of ultimate comfort: succulent shrimp, rich and creamy garlic sauce, and a golden, cheesy topping. It is quick to prepare and very satisfying for either a weekday dinner or a special occasion.
And you know what’s even better? All this is achievable in only 4 very simple steps and with basic, probably-already-in-your-pantry ingredients. This Shrimp Gratin is the perfect restaurant dish for any home cook to easily master; let’s start creating our masterpiece!
Ingredients Required
Essential Ingredients
To make Garlic Shrimp Gratin, you will need:
- Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined)
- Butter (2 tbsp)
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
- Heavy cream (1 cup)
- Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated)
- Mozzarella cheese (½ cup, shredded)
- Breadcrumbs (¼ cup, for a crispy topping)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Olive oil (1 tbsp)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional Add-ons for Extra Flavor
- Mushrooms – Adds an earthy flavor to the dish
- White wine – Enhances the depth of the sauce
- Red pepper flakes – For a slight kick of spice
- Lemon zest – Brightens up the flavors
Step 1: Preparing the Shrimp
Cleaning and Deveining Shrimp
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water. If you’re using whole shrimp, remove the shells and tails. Slice along the back of the shrimp to remove the dark vein. This step is important for a clean and fresh-tasting dish.
Seasoning the Shrimp
After cleaning, use paper towels to pat the shrimp dry. Add the following to season them:
- Salt – Enhances natural sweetness
- Pepper – Adds a mild heat
- Olive oil – Helps coat the shrimp for even cooking
Let the shrimp sit for about 10 minutes while you prepare the garlic sauce.
Step 2: Making the Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients for the Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking the Perfect Garlic Cream Base
- Heat butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds till it becomes fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously.
- Mix in Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook for about 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 3: Assembling the Gratin
Layering Shrimp and Sauce
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the seasoned shrimp evenly in a baking dish.
- Pour the garlic cream sauce over the shrimp.
Choosing the Best Cheese for Gratin
A mix of Parmesan and Mozzarella creates a perfect balance of flavor and meltiness. Sprinkle both cheeses evenly over the dish.
For extra crunch, top with breadcrumbs before baking.
Step 4: Baking to Perfection
Ideal Temperature and Time
Bake the gratin at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Achieving a Golden Brown Crust
To get a crispy golden top, switch to broil mode for the last 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning!
Tips for the Best Garlic Shrimp Gratin
Choosing the Right Shrimp
For the best texture and flavor, opt for large or jumbo shrimp. Smaller shrimp tend to shrink too much when baked. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water for about 10 minutes.
Making It More Flavorful
- Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a stronger, richer taste.
- Toast the breadcrumbs in butter before sprinkling on top for an extra crispy crust.
- Mix cheeses – Try a blend of Parmesan, Gruyère, and cheddar for depth of flavor.
- Add a splash of white wine to the garlic sauce for a gourmet touch.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Shrimp Gratin pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great options:
Best Side Dishes to Pair With Gratin
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a fresh contrast.
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes complement the gratin’s richness.
- Rice or Pasta – A great way to make this a heartier meal.
Wine Pairing Recommendations
- White wine – A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Sparkling wine – Prosecco or Champagne balances the richness of the dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this recipe is simple, a few mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:
Overcooking the Shrimp
Shrimp cook quickly and can easily become tough and rubbery if overbaked. To avoid this, do not overbake the shrimp gratin beyond the recommended baking time; take it out of the oven the moment the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Using the Wrong Type of Cheese
Not all cheeses melt well. Avoid cheeses like feta or goat cheese, as they don’t create that creamy, stretchy texture needed for gratin. Stick to Parmesan, Mozzarella, Gruyère, or cheddar for the best results.
Variations of Garlic Shrimp Gratin
Keto-Friendly Version
For a low-carb version, replace the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour. Serve with a side of cauliflower rice instead of pasta or bread.
Dairy-Free or Gluten-Free Adaptations
- Dairy-free: Substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan and coconut cream for heavy cream.
- Gluten-Free – Simply swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether.
Health Benefits of Shrimp
Nutritional Value of Shrimp
Shrimp is not only delicious but also highly nutritious:
- High in protein – 1 cup of shrimp provides about 24 grams of protein.
- Low in calories – A serving contains only 85-100 calories.
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids – Great for heart health.
- Packed with vitamins and minerals – Including vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium.
Why Shrimp is a Great Protein Source
Shrimp is a lean protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to build muscle or maintain a healthy diet without excessive calories.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Best Way to Store in the Refrigerator
- Let the gratin cool completely before storing.
- Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container.
How to Reheat Without Losing Texture
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, but note that the cheese may become slightly rubbery.
- Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Garlic Shrimp Gratin is an effortlessly elegant dish that impresses the whole guest list. Be it a casual dinner or some special occasion, this recipe pulls out restaurant-quality flavors with minimum effort.
What are you waiting for? Try this recipe today and enjoy the perfect combination of creamy, garlicky, and cheesy goodness!
FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking to prevent excess moisture from making the gratin watery.
What’s the Best Cheese for Gratin?
A combination of Parmesan, Mozzarella, and Gruyère works best for a rich, melty texture.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble this gratin and then store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours in advance. Just bake fresh when serving.
How Do I Stop the Sauce From Curdling?
Make sure to simmer the cream on low heat, adding cheese gradually and stirring all the time so as not to allow the sauce to break.
Is Garlic Shrimp Gratin Spicy?
Not by nature, but you can add red pepper flakes if you want a little kick.