Garlic Shrimp Gratin

This garlic shrimp gratin is a rich and comforting dish that brings a touch of indulgence to weeknight dinners. It combines tender shrimp with a creamy garlic sauce topped with melted cheese and golden breadcrumbs, making it perfect for anyone craving something flavorful yet simple to prepare.

The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with seafood for a satisfying meal

Ingredients

• Shrimp: peeled and deveined, the star ingredient, choose fresh or thoroughly thawed frozen shrimp for best texture
• Garlic cloves: minced to infuse deep aroma that acts as the backbone of the sauce
• Olive oil and unsalted butter: create a perfect balance of savory richness and a nice cooking medium
• Heavy cream: adds the luxurious creamy texture crucial for the gratin’s comforting feel
• Chicken or seafood broth: brings subtle umami layers, opt for low sodium to control salt levels
• Parmesan cheese: grated for its sharp nutty flavor, fresh grating works best
• Mozzarella cheese: shredded melts smoothly and creates the classic gratin crust
• Breadcrumbs: optional but recommended for an appealing crunchy topping, choose fresh or panko for lightness
• Dried oregano: adds herbal warmth that complements the garlic and shrimp
• Smoked paprika: introduces a gentle smokiness, look for vibrant red powder to ensure freshness
• Salt and pepper: for seasoning, adjust to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives: for garnish, they brighten the dish at the end visually and with fresh herbal notes

Instructions

Set The Oven:

Set your oven temperature to 190 degrees Celsius or 375 degrees Fahrenheit so it's ready by the time your gratin is assembled. Preheating ensures the top crisps nicely.

Cook Shrimp And Garlic:

Heat olive oil and butter together in a skillet over medium heat until melted and shimmering. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not burnt. Then place the shrimp into the pan, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook shrimp for two to three minutes per side until pink, opaque, and just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook or they will become rubbery. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Prepare The Sauce:

Using the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits on the bottom, as these add great flavor. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, oregano, and smoked paprika. Cook the sauce over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly, around three to four minutes. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon nicely.

Assemble The Gratin:

Place the cooked shrimp evenly in a baking dish. Pour the creamy garlic sauce over them, making sure to cover well. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the top. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the cheese to add a golden crunch once baked.

Bake Until Golden:

Place the dish in the preheated oven for between 15 and 20 minutes. The gratin is done when the top is bubbling and nicely golden brown. Keep an eye on it to make sure the breadcrumbs do not burn.

Garnish And Serve:

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives for color and freshness. Serve immediately with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

My favorite ingredient here is the smoked paprika because it adds unexpected warmth and depth without heat. I remember one family dinner where this smoky twist became a talking point and made everyone request seconds.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the sauce creamy. Breadcrumbs may lose crispness but taste remains delicious.

Ingredient Swaps

Try substituting heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Use Gruyère or cheddar in place of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different flavor profile. Fresh oregano can replace dried if available, adding a brighter herbal note.

Serving Ideas

Serve this gratin over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or buttered egg noodles. A crisp green side salad or roasted vegetables cut through the richness perfectly. Crusty garlic bread is a classic combo to mop up every bit of sauce.

This gratin beautifully combines creamy and crunchy textures for a satisfying bite. It's easily adaptable to dietary preferences or ingredient availability.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of shrimp works best?

Peeled and deveined medium to large shrimp provide the perfect texture and cook evenly in this creamy garlic preparation.

→ Can I use fresh herbs for seasoning?

Yes, fresh parsley or chives add a fresh, vibrant touch when sprinkled on just before serving.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Whole milk or half-and-half can be used, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.

→ How do breadcrumbs enhance the dish?

Breadcrumbs add a crunchy, golden topping that contrasts nicely with the smooth, cheesy sauce beneath.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

This gratin goes well with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to help soak up the flavorful sauce.