Yummy Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe

There’s something magical about the rich, creamy indulgence of a Yummy Garlic Shrimp Gratin straight from the oven. Now, picture taking this comfort classic to new heights—think succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and a crispy, golden topping. It’s the perfect cozy meal that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a five-star restaurant. If you love this recipe, don’t forget to check out our other drool-worthy chicken dishes

Star Ingredients

Before we get into the fun of cooking, let’s appreciate the simple but essential ingredients that make this dish pop:

1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined) – These juicy shrimp are the stars of the show.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness and depth to the luscious sauce.
4 cloves garlic (minced) – A fragrant kick that fills your kitchen with irresistible aroma.
1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth) – Adds a subtle tang that balances the richness.
1/2 cup heavy cream – The creamy magic that makes this gratin irresistible.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For that rich, nutty bite that perfectly complements the shrimp.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch) – These will turn into a crispy, golden crown.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – A touch of heat to elevate the flavor.
Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish) – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Lemon wedges (for serving) – The perfect zesty finish.

Let’s Start Cooking

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by cranking your oven up to 375°F (190°C). Grease your baking dish for easy cleanup. A 9×9-inch glass baking dish works great for even cooking and a hassle-free experience.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp and Garlic

In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant and golden—don’t let it burn! Then, add the shrimp, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook for 3–4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and lovely. Set them aside.

A Step-by-Step Guide with Insider Tips

Now that the shrimp are ready, we’re about to combine them with some rich, cheesy goodness. This is where the magic happens.

Step 3: Craft the Gratin Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients to create that creamy, cheesy dream sauce:

1 cup heavy cream – This makes the base smooth and velvety.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – For that ooey-gooey, melty texture.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (reserve some for topping) – The saltiness will bring the whole dish together.
The cooked shrimp from Step 2.

Mix it all together gently until the shrimp are completely coated in the rich, creamy sauce. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, toss in some Italian herbs or smoked paprika to add extra flavor.

Pro tip: Let the shrimp cool a little before mixing them into the sauce. This helps keep the sauce smooth and prevents the cheese from melting too soon.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Transfer the creamy shrimp mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the reserved Parmesan cheese generously on top, followed by a good helping of breadcrumbs. This will form a beautiful, crispy topping once baked.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, combine:

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (these create the perfect crunch)
The rest of the grated Parmesan cheese (for a golden, cheesy topping)

This combo is the secret to achieving the crispy, mouthwatering crust that you’ll love. For extra golden perfection, drizzle a little melted butter over the breadcrumbs.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. The gratin should be golden and bubbling. If you want a super crispy top, switch to the broil setting for the last 2–3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

Personalizing Your Gratin

The beauty of this dish is its flexibility—there are plenty of ways to make it your own:

Add Veggies: Sneak in some spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for a touch of greenery and added texture.
Spice it Up: Craving a bit of heat? Toss in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a fiery kick.
Switch the Protein: Not a shrimp fan? This recipe is also fabulous with chicken, scallops, or a seafood mix of crab and lobster.

Perfect Pairings

The rich flavors of this gratin are balanced perfectly with lighter, refreshing sides:

A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the gratin.
Pair it with steamed asparagus or roasted green beans for a light, savory side.
Serve with some crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the extra creamy sauce.

Conclusion: Bringing It All Together

Yummy Garlic Shrimp Gratin isn’t just a dish—it’s a celebration of flavor and comfort. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner or serving it to impress your guests, this gratin is bound to steal the show.

The combination of perfectly cooked shrimp, savory garlic cream sauce, and that irresistible crispy topping makes this recipe a winner. Play around with your favorite add-ins or pairings to make it uniquely yours!

Yummy Garlic Shrimp Gratin
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American, French-Inspired
Servings: 4
Calories: 340 kcal

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Preheat: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your baking dish.
Cook Shrimp: In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter and cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes until pink. Set aside.
Make Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in wine and cream, simmering for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
Assemble: Add the shrimp back into the skillet, then transfer to the baking dish.
Top: Sprinkle with Parmesan and breadcrumbs.
Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 340 kcal
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 190mg
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 580mg

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw and thoroughly dry the shrimp before cooking.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half, whole milk, or coconut cream (for a dairy-free option) work as alternatives
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! Assemble the gratin up to the topping step and refrigerate for up to a day. When ready to bake, add the topping and bake as instructed.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I freeze the gratin?
Yes! Prepare the gratin up to the topping step, then freeze it. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, add the topping, and bake according to the instructions.