If you’re after pure comfort and full-on flavor, Garlic Shrimp Gratin is here to win your dinner table. Imagine plump, sweet shrimp swimming in a creamy garlic sauce, covered with a bubbling blanket of cheese, and finished with a golden panko crust that begs to be scooped with crusty bread. This easy weeknight recipe delivers a luxurious seafood bake that feels elegant yet is so incredibly straightforward, you’ll wonder why you’ve never tried it before. Whether you’re hosting guests or just treating yourself, Garlic Shrimp Gratin is the ultimate indulgent seafood dish that always impresses.

Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk ingredients! You don’t need a long grocery list to achieve layers of flavor and rich, crave-worthy textures. Each item in this gratin serves a specific purpose, from juicy shrimp to the creamy sauce and crisp topping, coming together for a dish that tastes like an instant classic.

Shrimp (1 pound, large, peeled and deveined): The absolute star—choose large, fresh shrimp for sweetness and succulence.
Unsalted Butter (3 tablespoons): Gives luxurious flavor depth and richness to the base.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): The dish’s namesake—freshly minced for aromatic warmth in every bite.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon, plus extra for panko): Adds a fruity note and helps brown both the shrimp and the crispy topping.
Dry White Wine (1/4 cup): De-glazes the skillet and infuses gentle acidity to balance the creaminess.
Heavy Cream (1/2 cup): The secret to that lush, creamy sauce—rich but not overly heavy.
Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Infuses the sauce with savory, nutty flavor and helps it thicken.
Mozzarella Cheese (1/4 cup, shredded): Melts beautifully for those irresistible gooey cheese pulls.
Panko Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Japanese-style crumbs bake up extra crunchy and absorb the perfect amount of sauce.
Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Lively color and a burst of freshness right at the end.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances flavors and brings out the natural sweetness in shrimp.
Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a bit of earthy spice without overpowering the dish.
Red Pepper Flakes (pinch, optional): A gentle kick for those who love a touch of heat.
Lemon Wedges (for serving): Brightens up the gratin and balances the rich cheese sauce.

How to Make Garlic Shrimp Gratin

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready when you are. In a large skillet, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute, just until it’s fragrant—be careful not to let it burn, as you want that sweet, gentle flavor to shine.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Add your shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. The shrimp should just start to turn pink and curl. Don’t overcook them at this stage; they’ll finish in the oven and stay nice and juicy!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Deglaze the skillet with your dry white wine, stirring it through to scoop up any browned bits stuck to the pan (that’s big flavor!). Let it simmer for another minute to reduce slightly. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like things a bit spicy. Simmer for 1 to 2 minutes—just until the sauce thickens up a bit and coats the shrimp beautifully.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Remove your skillet from the heat and transfer the creamy shrimp mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top, giving you that cheesy layer everyone craves in Garlic Shrimp Gratin.

Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping

In a small bowl, toss the panko breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil. This step ensures the topping gets delightfully golden and crisp as it bakes. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the mozzarella-covered shrimp mixture.

Step 6: Bake and Broil

Slide your baking dish into the oven and bake for about 10 to 12 minutes, until everything is bubbly and the top turns golden. For a little extra crunch, pop it under the broiler for 1 to 2 quick minutes—but keep a close eye so your crust doesn’t burn!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Right when you pull the gratin from the oven, shower it with the chopped fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side, letting everyone squeeze a bit of zingy citrus over their serving. Then dig in while it’s hot and melty!

How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Gratin

Garnishes

A flurry of fresh parsley not only adds color but also brings a welcome pop of herbal freshness that brightens the whole dish. If you’re feeling fancy, a few extra grinds of black pepper or a light grate of extra Parmesan just before serving takes the flavors up another notch.

Side Dishes

Garlic Shrimp Gratin absolutely shines next to crusty French bread—perfect for soaking up every last bit of creamy sauce. For a heartier meal, spoon it over hot rice or buttered pasta. A crisp green salad or simple steamed vegetables round out your plate and add balance to this rich, cheesy main.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party twist, portion Garlic Shrimp Gratin into small ramekins for individual servings. It also looks gorgeous baked and served family-style straight from a rustic oven-proof skillet, inviting everyone to dig in together. For a brunch or appetizer, try spooning the gratin onto crostini or serving alongside little endive leaves for a lighter touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container once fully cooled and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The flavors deepen overnight, but be sure not to let it sit too long as shrimp are best enjoyed fresh.

Freezing

Garlic Shrimp Gratin is best when enjoyed right away, but you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place cooled portions in a freezer-safe container, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 1 month. Be mindful that the texture may change a little, as cream-based sauces can separate after freezing.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy, let the gratin thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for about 10-12 minutes or until warmed through. Uncover for the last few minutes to crisp up the topping again. Avoid microwaving, as shrimp can get rubbery and the topping might turn soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Shrimp Gratin?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw completely and pat them dry with paper towels before cooking. This ensures you get a nice sear on the shrimp and your sauce doesn’t get watery.

What can I substitute for white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, simply swap it with a splash of seafood or chicken broth and a little squeeze of lemon juice to mimic the acidity that wine brings.

How can I make this dish gluten free?

Simply use gluten-free panko or crushed rice crackers for the topping. Everything else in Garlic Shrimp Gratin is naturally gluten free, so the adaptation is easy and delicious.

Can I prepare Garlic Shrimp Gratin ahead of time?

You can make the shrimp and sauce mixture in advance and store it covered in the fridge for up to 8 hours. Wait until just before baking to add the cheeses and panko—this keeps the topping crisp and irresistible!

Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?

Yes! For a less rich version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. The sauce won’t be quite as thick but will still be delightfully creamy and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about the way Garlic Shrimp Gratin brings everyone to the table with big smiles and eager forks. If you haven’t tried this comforting seafood bake before, tonight is the perfect night to treat yourself. Gather your ingredients, pour a glass of white wine, and get ready for creamy, cheesy, garlicky goodness in every forkful!