Garlic Shrimp Gratin: A Creamy, Cheesy, and Irresistible Seafood Dish

This Garlic Shrimp Gratin combines rich, creamy flavors with crispy, cheesy textures, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion. It’s quick to prepare, packed with bold flavors, and perfect for seafood lovers.

If you’re a fan of rich, cheesy, and flavorful seafood dishes, then Garlic Shrimp Gratin is a must-try recipe. This dish features plump, juicy shrimp baked in a creamy garlic-infused sauce, topped with a crispy golden Parmesan breadcrumb crust. The combination of savory, buttery shrimp, garlic, and bubbling melted cheese creates an indulgent dish perfect for a special dinner, holiday gathering, or cozy night in.

This easy-to-make gratin can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course with toasted bread or pasta. The best part? It requires minimal prep and bakes in under 20 minutes, making it an effortless yet impressive recipe for seafood lovers.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Shrimp Gratin

🦐 Rich and Creamy Flavor
The shrimp are baked in a garlic-infused butter sauce combined with melted cheese, making each bite decadent.

🧀 Golden, Crispy Parmesan Topping
The crunchy breadcrumb and Parmesan crust adds a delicious contrast to the creamy shrimp.

🕒 Quick and Easy to Make
With just 10 minutes of prep and 15-20 minutes of baking, this dish is ready in no time.

🥖 Perfect for Dipping
Serve with crusty bread or toasted baguettes to soak up the delicious garlic cheese sauce.

Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp Gratin

For the Shrimp Base:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions for Garlic Shrimp Gratin

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Stir in the shrimp, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning, cooking for 1-2 minutes until shrimp start turning pink.
5. Pour in white wine (or chicken broth) and simmer for 1-2 minutes to deglaze the pan.
6. Add heavy cream, stirring gently to coat the shrimp in a creamy garlic sauce. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Make the Parmesan Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, olive oil (or melted butter), and fresh parsley.
2. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the shrimp and cream sauce.

Step 3: Bake the Gratin

1. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
2. If needed, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes to get a deeper golden crust.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
2. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
3. Serve hot with toasted bread, pasta, or a side of roasted vegetables.

Tips for the Best Garlic Shrimp Gratin

🌟 Use Large Shrimp for the Best Texture
Bigger shrimp stay juicy and tender after baking.

🔥 Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cook quickly, so baking just until golden prevents them from becoming rubbery.

🧄 Enhance the Garlic Flavor
For an extra garlicky taste, add roasted garlic puree to the sauce before baking.

🍋 Add a Zesty Touch
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the rich, creamy flavors.

How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Gratin

🥖 With Crusty Bread
Serve with toasted baguette slices to scoop up the creamy, garlicky sauce.

🍝 Over Pasta
Toss with linguine or fettuccine for a decadent shrimp pasta dish.

🥗 With a Side Salad
Balance the richness with a light arugula or Caesar salad.

Variations to Try

🧀 Extra Cheesy Gratin: Add gruyère or mozzarella for a cheesier, stretchier topping.

🌶 Spicy Garlic Shrimp Gratin: Increase the red pepper flakes or add cayenne for a fiery kick.

🥦 Garlic Shrimp and Veggie Gratin: Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for extra flavor.