Description
This Garlic Shrimp Gratin is a creamy, cheesy seafood dish featuring tender shrimp baked under a golden breadcrumb topping. With a rich garlic cream sauce enhanced by Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, it’s a quick and elegant meal perfect for seafood lovers craving comfort food with a gourmet touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 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 prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet and cook for 1–2 minutes on each side until they turn pink but remain slightly undercooked to avoid overcooking during baking. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds to a minute. Pour in the dry white wine or chicken broth and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the heavy cream and continue simmering for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and paprika (if using), stirring until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Gratin: Arrange the partially cooked shrimp evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the shrimp, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese all over the top.
- Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil until they are uniformly coated. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over the dish to create a crispy topping.
- Bake and Serve: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes or until the gratin is bubbling and the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot for a deliciously rich and comforting meal.
Notes
- Using freshly made breadcrumbs will give a crispier and more flavorful topping.
- For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream but expect a less rich sauce.
- Ensure not to overcook the shrimp initially, as they will continue cooking in the oven and can become rubbery.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, use chicken broth or vegetable broth instead of white wine.
