Delicious Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe

There's nothing quite like the rich, buttery aroma of Garlic Shrimp Gratin bubbling away in the oven. This dish combines tender shrimp, creamy béchamel sauce, and a golden, cheesy crust that’s absolutely irresistible.

I first fell in love with this dish during a cozy dinner at a seaside restaurant. The combination of fresh seafood and decadent gratin topping was pure magic. Now, I make this at home whenever I want to impress guests—or just treat myself!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Shrimp Gratin

Get ready to add a new favorite to your comfort food lineup. This Garlic Shrimp Gratin is rich, creamy, and incredibly easy to prepare.

First off, it’s a quick and easy recipe. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple prep process, you can have a restaurant-worthy dish on your table in under 40 minutes.

It’s also perfect for special occasions. Whether you’re serving it as an elegant appetizer or a satisfying main course, this dish always feels indulgent and impressive.

Plus, it’s customizable! You can add mushrooms, spinach, or even a touch of spice to make it your own.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Garlic Shrimp Gratin comes from its carefully selected ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering flavor and texture.

Shrimp is the star of the dish. I recommend using large, deveined shrimp for the best texture. Fresh or frozen shrimp both work—just be sure to pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Garlic brings a fragrant depth to the dish. Freshly minced garlic is always best, as it releases a more potent, aromatic flavor than pre-minced versions.

Heavy cream and milk create the luxurious béchamel sauce. The combination results in a velvety smooth texture, while a touch of nutmeg enhances the overall warmth of the dish.

Cheese adds richness and the perfect golden crust. A mix of Parmesan and Gruyère works beautifully, offering both nutty sharpness and gooey meltability.

A sprinkle of breadcrumbs ensures that irresistible crispy topping. Use panko for extra crunch or classic breadcrumbs for a more traditional gratin texture.

How To Make This Garlic Shrimp Gratin

Creating this mouthwatering Garlic Shrimp Gratin is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps for the perfect dish.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish and set it aside.

In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the shrimp and cook just until they turn pink—be careful not to overcook them, as they’ll finish baking in the oven.

For the béchamel sauce, melt butter in a separate saucepan and whisk in flour, creating a smooth roux. Gradually whisk in warm milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for depth of flavor.

Combine the cooked shrimp with the béchamel sauce and transfer everything into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Parmesan and Gruyère over the top, followed by a layer of breadcrumbs for that perfect golden crunch.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—this gratin stores well! Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To freeze, place the fully cooled gratin in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For reheating, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may cause the cheese to become rubbery.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with flavors and ingredients.

For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt. It will still be creamy but with fewer calories.

Want to add extra veggies? Try stirring in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for an added depth of flavor and color.

Looking for a spicy kick? A dash of red pepper flakes or a spoonful of sriracha in the béchamel sauce will give the dish a delightful heat.

For a low-carb option, replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or skip them altogether for a keto-friendly version.

No Gruyère cheese? No problem! Swap it with mozzarella or a mild cheddar for a slightly different but equally delicious gratin.

Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own. No matter how you customize it, Garlic Shrimp Gratin is guaranteed to be a hit!

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