Description
This Garlic Shrimp Gratin is a delicious and creamy seafood dish featuring succulent shrimp baked in a rich garlic cream sauce, topped with melted Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, and optionally a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a quick yet impressive meal, it combines buttery shrimp with fragrant garlic, white wine, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, finished with fresh lemon juice and parsley for brightness.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Cheese and Topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 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 9×9-inch baking dish or individual ramekins with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque but are not overcooked. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Sauce: Using the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Liquid: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate and the liquid to reduce slightly, intensifying the flavor.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, red pepper flakes if using, and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes velvety.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the garlic cream sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Assemble the Gratin: Transfer the shrimp and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese and Topping: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella evenly over the shrimp. Optionally, scatter breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
- Bake the Gratin: Bake the assembled gratin in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden, and the breadcrumbs (if used) are crisp and browned.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the gratin from the oven and drizzle fresh lemon juice over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and brightness.
- Serve: Serve immediately, paired with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor, but frozen shrimp thawed thoroughly works as well.
- The white wine can be substituted with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit entirely if you prefer mild.
- Breadcrumbs on top add a nice texture contrast, but you can skip them for a softer topping.
- Watch the shrimp carefully while cooking to avoid overcooking and becoming rubbery.
