Delicious Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe

There's nothing quite like the indulgent combination of succulent shrimp, rich cream, and golden, bubbling cheese. This Garlic Shrimp Gratin is the ultimate comfort food—perfectly creamy, loaded with flavor, and finished with a crispy, golden topping that’s impossible to resist.

I first discovered this dish while vacationing on the coast, where fresh seafood was abundant, and every restaurant had their own version of a baked shrimp dish. After recreating it at home with a few personal touches, it quickly became a family favorite. Now, whenever I make this gratin, it takes me right back to those seaside evenings.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Shrimp Gratin

Get ready to fall in love with this creamy, cheesy, garlicky delight. This Garlic Shrimp Gratin is not only luxurious but also surprisingly simple to make.

First off, it’s quick and easy. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a restaurant-quality dish on your table without hours of prep work.

It’s also incredibly versatile. Serve it as an elegant appetizer, a side dish, or even as a main course over pasta or rice for a more filling meal.

Plus, this recipe is a great way to impress guests. The rich, garlicky aroma as it bakes, combined with the beautifully golden crust, makes for a show-stopping dish that looks and tastes gourmet.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Garlic Shrimp Gratin lies in the combination of a few simple, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what makes this dish truly shine.

The shrimp is the star of the show. Opt for large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, for the best texture and flavor. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but frozen shrimp works well too—just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before using.

A good amount of garlic is key to infusing the dish with that bold, aromatic flavor. I recommend using fresh garlic cloves, minced finely, to ensure every bite carries that perfect garlicky punch.

For the sauce, a mix of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, luscious base. The Parmesan adds a nutty depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the shrimp and garlic.

A generous layer of breadcrumbs and melted butter gives the gratin its signature golden crust. I prefer using panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness, but regular breadcrumbs will also do the trick.

Finally, a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving brings a bright, fresh contrast to the creamy richness of the dish.

How To Make This Garlic Shrimp Gratin

Making this Garlic Shrimp Gratin is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps to achieve a perfectly baked, irresistibly creamy dish.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prep the shrimp by patting them dry with paper towels. This ensures they sear properly and don’t release too much moisture into the dish.

Next, melt some butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should be golden, not brown.

Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, letting the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it slightly thickens. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

Transfer the shrimp to a buttered baking dish and pour the creamy garlic sauce over them. Make sure the shrimp are evenly coated in the sauce so they cook beautifully in the oven.

In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and a bit more Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the shrimp and sauce.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the topping is golden brown and crispy. If needed, broil for the last 1-2 minutes to achieve an extra crispy crust.

Storage Options

This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but if you have leftovers, don’t worry! Here’s how to store and reheat your Garlic Shrimp Gratin.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Since shrimp can become rubbery when overcooked, avoid keeping it too long.

To reheat, place the gratin in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use a toaster oven to maintain the crispy topping.

Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp tough and the topping soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Garlic Shrimp Gratin is how adaptable it is! Here are some fun ways to customize the dish.

For a lighter version, swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or even a mix of milk and Greek yogurt. It won’t be as rich, but it will still be delicious.

If you want to add more seafood, try incorporating scallops or lump crab meat for an extra-special twist. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Looking for a cheesier version? Mix in some shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese with the Parmesan for an extra gooey, melty bite.

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed almonds for the topping. The crunch will still be there, minus the gluten!

No shrimp on hand? This recipe works wonderfully with chicken or even a mix of roasted vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.

Experiment with your favorite ingredients and make this gratin your own. However you choose to enjoy it, one thing is certain—this Garlic Shrimp Gratin is bound to become a household favorite!

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