There’s something about pulling a bubbling, golden-brown dish straight from the oven that makes you feel like a chef, even if you’ve barely lifted a finger. That’s exactly how I felt the first time I made this Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe—like I had just created something restaurant-worthy, except I did it in my cozy kitchen with minimal effort.
I remember discovering shrimp gratin on a chilly winter evening. I wanted something indulgent but didn’t feel like spending hours cooking. The result? A cheesy shrimp casserole that was not only quick but packed with deep, garlicky flavor, perfectly complemented by a crispy, golden topping.
If you’re looking for a shrimp recipe in the oven that delivers both elegance and ease, this dish is for you. Whether you’re making it for a shrimp-for-a-crowd dinner party or just treating yourself to some creamy, cheesy comfort, I promise—it’s a recipe worth keeping.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe
This shrimp gratin recipe isn’t just another seafood dish; it’s the kind of meal that makes people close their eyes and savor every bite.
1. The Perfect Balance of Creamy and Crunchy
A rich, velvety cheese sauce cradles tender shrimp, while a buttery, crispy breadcrumb topping adds the perfect contrast.
2. Restaurant-Worthy, But Easy
You’ll feel like a gourmet chef, but the truth is, this recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish.
3. The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser
Perfect as a main dish, appetizer, or side—great for date nights, dinner parties, or simply because you deserve it.
4. Easily Customizable
Tweak the ingredients to match your taste. Add heat, swap the cheese, or even make a seafood medley!
The Ingredients: Simplicity Meets Elegance
The Base:
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled & deveined) – Use fresh or frozen (thawed) for convenience.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter – Adds richness and depth.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced) – Because shrimp and garlic are a match made in heaven.
- Salt & black pepper (to taste) – Simple, but essential.
The Creamy, Cheesy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream – The key to a smooth, luxurious texture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts into gooey, cheesy perfection.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, nutty contrast.
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional) – Provides a subtle smoky kick.
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning – A classic blend of herbs to enhance the flavor.
The Crispy, Golden Topping:
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs – Gives the gratin a light, crispy texture.
- 2 tbsp melted butter – Helps toast the breadcrumbs perfectly.
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese – Because more cheese is always a good idea.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped) – A pop of freshness and color.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Garlic Shrimp Gratin
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Your Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish—trust me, easy cleanup is always a win.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic & Shrimp
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Toss in the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3–4 minutes until pink. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Gently fold in the sautéed shrimp, making sure every piece is coated in cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Pour the shrimp mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 5: Create the Golden Topping
In a small bowl, mix panko, Parmesan, and melted butter. Sprinkle over the shrimp mixture for that extra crunch factor.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden & Bubbling
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. Want an extra-crispy topping? Broil for 2–3 minutes before removing from the oven.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley on top, let it rest for a couple of minutes, and serve while warm.
Tips for the Best Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe
1. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cook fast, and overcooking makes them rubbery. Stick to 3–4 minutes in the skillet!
2. Want More Flavor? Use Gruyère Cheese
Mozzarella is great, but swapping in Gruyère adds a deep, nutty flavor that’s incredible.
3. Add a Spicy Kick
A pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne takes this dish to another level.
4. Turn It into a Full Meal
Serve this gratin over pasta, rice, or even roasted vegetables for a heartier dish.
Pairing Ideas: What to Serve with Shrimp Gratin
This dish is rich and indulgent, so pairing it with something light balances the meal:
- Crisp Green Salad – A lemony vinaigrette cuts through the richness.
- Garlic Bread – Because you won’t want to waste that sauce.
- Steamed Asparagus – Adds a healthy, refreshing contrast.
If you love seafood, try this Best Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce—it pairs beautifully with this dish!
Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Shrimp Base:
- 1 lb shrimp peeled & deveined
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- For the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp smoked paprika optional
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- For the Crispy Topping:
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3–4 minutes until pink. Remove from heat.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp.
- Assemble the Dish: Pour the shrimp and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix panko, Parmesan, and melted butter. Evenly sprinkle over the shrimp mixture.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly. For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a spicy kick, add ¼ tsp red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Swap mozzarella for Gruyère or cheddar for a deeper cheese flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw and pat dry to remove excess moisture before cooking.
This Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe is everything you want in a comfort dish—rich, cheesy, garlicky, and downright addictive. Whether for a date night, a dinner party, or just treating yourself, it’s a dish that impresses every time.
Now, grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a meal you’ll want to make over and over again. And don’t forget to let me know how yours turns out!
For more amazing seafood dishes, check out this Salmon Rice Bowl Recipe—another easy and delicious meal idea!
