There's nothing quite like the comforting, cheesy goodness of Garlic Shrimp Gratin. Imagine plump, juicy shrimp coated in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, baked to perfection under a golden, bubbling layer of cheese. It's rich, indulgent, and just the right balance of garlicky and creamy flavors.

I first discovered this dish at a cozy little bistro during a trip to France, and I was instantly hooked. The combination of fresh seafood with a velvety, cheesy sauce was irresistible, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. Now, this gratin has become one of my go-to recipes for special occasions and cozy nights in.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Shrimp Gratin

Get ready to fall in love with this irresistibly cheesy, garlicky dish. Garlic Shrimp Gratin is an absolute must-try, whether you're looking for an easy weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests.

First, it’s incredibly simple to make. With just a few fresh ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a restaurant-quality dish on your table in under an hour.

It’s also wonderfully rich and satisfying. The combination of garlic, cream, and melted cheese creates a velvety texture that coats the shrimp beautifully, making every bite pure bliss.

If you're a seafood lover, this gratin is a dream come true. The shrimp remain juicy and tender, complemented by the crisp, golden cheese topping that adds a delightful contrast in texture.

Lastly, it’s a versatile dish. Serve it as an appetizer, pair it with crusty bread for dipping, or even spoon it over pasta or rice for a heartier meal.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Garlic Shrimp Gratin lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste and texture.

Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well for this recipe, but make sure they’re peeled and deveined for easy eating. I prefer large shrimp for their juicy texture, but medium-sized ones work too.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is key to infusing this dish with its signature aroma and flavor. Mince it finely so it distributes evenly throughout the sauce.

Heavy Cream: This forms the base of the luscious, creamy sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half, though the gratin won’t be as rich.

Cheese: A combination of Parmesan and Gruyère works wonders. Parmesan adds a salty umami punch, while Gruyère melts beautifully, giving the gratin a smooth and creamy finish.

Breadcrumbs: A sprinkle of panko breadcrumbs on top creates that irresistible crispy golden crust, adding a delightful contrast to the creamy shrimp underneath.

How To Make This Garlic Shrimp Gratin

Creating this decadent Garlic Shrimp Gratin is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps for a perfect dish every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, prepare your shrimp by patting them dry with a paper towel. This ensures they sear properly without excess moisture.

In a skillet over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they just start to turn pink. Remove from the heat and set aside.

In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce, creating a rich and flavorful base.

Transfer the shrimp to a baking dish and pour the garlic-infused cream sauce over them. Sprinkle the top with shredded Gruyère cheese and a generous layer of panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving – the cheese will be molten hot right out of the oven!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare because it's so delicious!), you can store them easily. Transfer the cooled gratin to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.

To reheat, place it in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery and the cheese sauce too greasy.

Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate and affect the texture upon thawing.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tweak it to your liking.

If you prefer a milder flavor, substitute shallots for garlic to add a more delicate sweetness to the sauce.

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a subtle heat that complements the richness of the dish.

Want a gluten-free version? Simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative or omit them altogether.

You can also experiment with different cheeses. Mozzarella can be used for an even meltier topping, while a touch of blue cheese can add a bold, tangy twist.

However you customize it, this Garlic Shrimp Gratin is bound to be a favorite. Try it out and make it your own!