Description
Creamy garlic shrimp gratin brings Mediterranean coastal charm to dinner tables with its rich, herbaceous profile. Succulent shrimp nestled in a golden, crispy cheese crust promise a luxurious seafood experience you’ll savor to the last delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Dairy and Cheese:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Herbs, Seasonings, and Toppings:
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to a sizzling 400°F (200°C), creating the perfect environment for a golden, bubbling gratin. Liberally season the succulent shrimp with a balanced blend of salt, pepper, and optional fiery red pepper flakes.
- Select a robust ovenproof skillet and melt butter over medium heat, allowing it to shimmer and dance. Introduce minced garlic, stirring until its aromatic essence permeates the kitchen, releasing a tantalizing fragrance.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet, transforming the butter and garlic into a luxurious base. Fold in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the sauce reaches a velvety, slightly thickened consistency.
- Gently nestle the seasoned shrimp into the creamy sauce, ensuring each morsel is elegantly coated. Distribute a generous layer of mozzarella cheese across the surface, creating a molten blanket of cheesy goodness.
- In a separate bowl, marry breadcrumbs with finely chopped parsley and a drizzle of olive oil. Massage the ingredients together until they form a harmonious, crunchy topping.
- Scatter the herbed breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese-covered shrimp, promising a crisp and golden exterior.
- Slide the skillet into the preheated oven, allowing the gratin to bake for 10-12 minutes. Watch for the shrimp to transform into a delicate pink and the topping to achieve a rich, golden-brown hue.
- Remove from the oven and let the gratin rest momentarily. Garnish with an additional sprinkle of fresh parsley, then serve immediately alongside crusty bread or atop a bed of pasta.
Notes
- Opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp to ensure maximum flavor and tender texture.
- Pat shrimp completely dry before seasoning to prevent excess moisture and achieve perfect golden browning.
- Customize heat levels by adjusting red pepper flakes or using alternative spices like smoked paprika for different flavor profiles.
- Consider dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream or nutritional yeast for lactose-intolerant or vegan dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 415
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 31 g
- Cholesterol: 220 mg