If you’re craving something that brings together the best of the sea and ooey-gooey cheese comfort, you’ve got to try this Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe. It’s a deliciously satisfying twist on a classic grilled cheese that introduces tender, flavorful shrimp for a seafood lover’s dream sandwich. The perfect balance of tangy, savory, and creamy, this sandwich delivers an unforgettable bite that’s quick to prepare and sure to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet crucial to making this shrimp grilled cheese sandwich truly shine. Each one adds a layer of taste, texture, or color that elevates the whole experience.
- 8 ounces cooked shrimp: Peeled, deveined, and chopped for easy layering and bite-sized seafood goodness.
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise: Provides creaminess that binds the shrimp mixture perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang that brightens the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: A fresh zing that complements the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Brings depth and mild savory notes.
- ¼ teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky warmth and pretty color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that enhances every other ingredient.
- 4 slices sourdough or sandwich bread: A sturdy base that crisps up beautifully on the outside.
- 4 slices cheddar cheese: The melty, rich star of the cheese component.
- 2 tablespoons butter (softened): For that golden, crispy crust and irresistible buttery flavor.
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (optional): Adds a pop of fresh color and mild onion bite.
How to Make Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
In a bowl, toss together the chopped shrimp with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and green onions if you’re using them. This creamy, flavorful mix is what makes this sandwich so special, so be sure everything is evenly coated.
Step 2: Assemble Your Sandwiches
Lay out the slices of bread on your workspace. Place one slice of cheddar cheese on each piece. Then spoon the shrimp mixture evenly over two cheese-covered slices. Top each with the remaining bread slices, cheese side facing down, so the cheese melts right against the shrimp filling.
Step 3: Butter Up and Grill
Spread softened butter on the outsides of each sandwich. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat until hot. Place the sandwiches onto the skillet and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a golden bread crust with perfectly melted cheese and warm, tender shrimp inside.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Once grilled to perfection, remove sandwiches from heat. Slice each sandwich in half to reveal the melty cheese and shrimp mix inside. Serve immediately for the best gooey and tender texture.
How to Serve Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a few extra green onions can bring a vibrant pop to this sandwich. A light squeeze of lemon over the top brightens each bite and ties all the flavors together beautifully.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with crispy pickles that cut through the richness or a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette for a refreshing balance. You might also enjoy a bowl of tomato soup for classic comfort vibes with a seafood twist.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, try cutting the sandwiches into smaller sliders perfect for a party platter. You can even experiment by toasting the bread in a panini press for perfectly pressed grill marks and extra crunch — the Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe is remarkably adaptable!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover grilled sandwiches, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and keep them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for up to 2 days, maintaining most of their delicious flavors and textures.
Freezing
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the assembled, ungrilled sandwiches by wrapping them individually and storing in a freezer-safe container. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling for that fresh-from-the-skillet taste.
Reheating
To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat and cook on both sides until warmed through and the cheese is melted again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the bread soggy and cheese rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use fresh uncooked shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! If using fresh uncooked shrimp, cook them first with a little seasoning before chopping and mixing into the sandwich filling. This ensures your shrimp stays tender and flavorful.
What type of cheese works best for this sandwich?
Cheddar is the classic choice because it melts beautifully and pairs well with shrimp. But feel free to mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor and texture combo that’s just as wonderful.
Is this sandwich suitable for freezing after it’s cooked?
Freezing after cooking isn’t recommended because the bread may become soggy when thawed. It’s better to freeze the ungrilled sandwiches and cook them fresh for best results.
Can I add spices for more heat?
Definitely! Mixing in some Cajun seasoning to the shrimp or adding a dash of hot sauce into the mayo mixture will give your sandwich a spicy kick. Adjust according to your heat preference.
What’s the best bread for the Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe?
Sourdough or a sturdy sandwich bread works best because it crisps up nicely while holding the filling without getting soggy. Avoid flimsy breads that don’t toast well.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe is a real crowd-pleaser and a personal favorite that perfectly blends the juicy flavors of shrimp with the irresistible comfort of grilled cheese. It’s quick, easy, and wonderfully satisfying whether for a cozy lunch or a simple dinner. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to seafood sandwich that’s bursting with flavor and cheesy goodness!
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Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A delicious Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich featuring tender cooked shrimp mixed with a flavorful mayo-mustard dressing, layered with melted cheddar cheese and grilled to golden perfection on sourdough bread. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or casual dinner.
Ingredients
Shrimp Mixture
- 8 ounces cooked shrimp (peeled, deveined, and roughly chopped)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (optional)
Sandwich
- 4 slices sourdough or sandwich bread
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter (softened)
Instructions
- Prepare Shrimp Mixture: In a bowl, combine the chopped cooked shrimp with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and chopped green onions if using. Mix everything together until the shrimp is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Lay out the bread slices on a clean surface. Place one slice of cheddar cheese on each piece of bread. Spoon the shrimp mixture evenly over two of the cheese-covered slices. Top each with the remaining bread slices, cheese side down, to form two sandwiches.
- Butter the Bread: Spread the softened butter on the outside of each sandwich generously to ensure a crispy, golden crust when grilled.
- Grill the Sandwiches: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches onto the heated skillet. Cook them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese inside has melted completely.
- Serve: Remove the sandwiches from the heat. Slice each sandwich in half for easier handling and serve immediately for the best warm, melty experience.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try using a mix of cheeses such as mozzarella and pepper jack.
- You can grill the shrimp with Cajun seasoning before mixing for a spicy twist.
- Serve with a side of pickles or a light salad to complement the richness of the sandwich.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
