Description
Garlic Shrimp Gratin is a creamy, cheesy baked shrimp dish featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a garlic-infused white wine cream sauce, topped with mozzarella cheese and a crispy breadcrumb crust. Perfect as a comforting appetizer or main course, this recipe combines rich flavors and textures for an elegant yet easy-to-make seafood delight.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Butter
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
Toppings
- 1/4 cup (60 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs (preferably freshly made)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to ensure the gratin doesn’t stick.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the shrimp and cook each side for 1 to 2 minutes until they turn pink but remain slightly undercooked. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside to preserve their tenderness.
- Make the Sauce: Using the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the dry white wine or chicken broth and let it simmer for 1 to 2 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the heavy cream and continue simmering for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens marginally. Add grated Parmesan cheese and optional paprika, stirring gently until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Gratin: Arrange the partially cooked shrimp evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the garlic cream sauce over the shrimp, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top for a gooey finish.
- Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, toss the breadcrumbs with olive oil until well coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the dish to create a crunchy topping.
- Bake and Serve: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving hot for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Using freshly made breadcrumbs will enhance the texture of the topping.
- Make sure shrimp are slightly undercooked before baking to avoid overcooking.
- You can substitute chicken broth for white wine to keep this recipe non-alcoholic.
- Serve with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated gently to preserve creaminess.
