If you’re looking for a comforting and indulgent dish that’s easy to make yet impressive enough for a special occasion, this Garlic Shrimp Gratin is the perfect choice. It features succulent shrimp smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce and topped with a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a romantic date night, or a dinner party, this recipe will have everyone coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This gratin comes together quickly with simple ingredients.
• Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a luscious, cheesy sauce.
• Crunchy and Golden: The panko breadcrumb topping adds the perfect crispy texture.
• Impressive Presentation: A baked shrimp gratin looks and tastes gourmet, making it ideal for special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb medium-sized shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

This recipe serves about 4 people, making it perfect for a small gathering or an intimate dinner.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when your gratin is assembled.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp

• In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
• Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through.
• Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Sauce

• In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, and the cooked shrimp.
• Mix everything well to ensure the shrimp is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Assemble the Gratin

• Transfer the creamy shrimp mixture into a greased baking dish (a 9×9-inch glass dish works well).
• In a separate bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
• Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp mixture, ensuring full coverage.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
• Remove from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy, and crispy goodness!

Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Shrimp Gratin

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will enhance the flavor, but if using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
• Add a Kick of Spice: For a little heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
• Make it Even Cheesier: Add a handful of Gruyère cheese for extra depth of flavor.
• Use Homemade Breadcrumbs: If you want an extra-crispy topping, lightly toast your breadcrumbs in butter before adding them to the dish.
• Pair it with Bread or Pasta: Serve with garlic bread for dipping or over pasta for a heartier meal.

What to Serve with Garlic Shrimp Gratin

• A Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the gratin.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or green beans make excellent side dishes.
• Crusty Bread: A baguette or ciabatta is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
• White Wine: Pair with a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for a perfect flavor match.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the Oven: Warm at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Reheat in the Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, to prevent overheating.

Can You Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.

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