Description
This Garlic Shrimp Gratin is a creamy, cheesy seafood delight featuring tender shrimp baked in a garlicky white wine cream sauce topped with melted Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner, this dish offers a luscious combination of flavors with a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, and a crispy golden breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Sauce & Cheese
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 6 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 shredded mozzarella cheese
Toppings & Garnish
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish or individual ramekins with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Shrimp: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until just pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Wine and Simmer: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly, enhancing the flavor.
- Incorporate Cream and Seasoning: Stir in the heavy cream, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes so the sauce thickens gently.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them thoroughly with the rich garlic cream sauce.
- Assemble the Gratin: Transfer the shrimp and sauce mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Add Cheese Layer: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella evenly over the shrimp to create a cheesy crust once baked.
- Top with Breadcrumbs: Optionally, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese for an extra crispy texture after baking.
- Bake the Gratin: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. If breadcrumbs were added, they should also turn crispy and browned.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, drizzle fresh lemon juice over the gratin, and garnish with chopped parsley for freshness.
- Serve Immediately: Serve warm alongside crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth for white wine to keep the dish alcohol-free.
- If you prefer less heat, omit the red pepper flakes.
- For a gluten-free option, skip the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs as a topping.
- Cook shrimp just until pink to avoid rubbery texture.
- Use fresh lemon juice at the end for brightness and to balance the richness of the cream and cheese.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
