Description
This Garlic Shrimp Gratin is a creamy, cheesy baked dish featuring tender shrimp cooked in a rich garlic cream sauce, topped with mozzarella and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner, it combines the flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and paprika with succulent shrimp baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Main Ingredients
- 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
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
Topping Ingredients
- 1/4 cup (60 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs (preferably freshly made)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the shrimp and cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink but remain slightly undercooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add the white wine or chicken broth and let it simmer for 1 to 2 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the heavy cream and continue simmering for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens a bit. Add 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. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil until evenly coated. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the dish for a crunchy crust.
- Bake and Serve: Bake the gratin in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and the top is golden brown. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- Use freshly made breadcrumbs for the best texture and flavor in the topping.
- If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute the white wine with chicken broth as indicated.
- Keep the shrimp slightly undercooked in the skillet as they will finish cooking in the oven, preventing toughness.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes along with the paprika.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
