Garlic Shrimp Gratin: Creamy, Cheesy, and Comforting Seafood Bake

There’s something magical about a bubbling dish coming out of the oven, golden on top and rich underneath. And this Garlic Shrimp Gratin is exactly that kind of magic. Juicy shrimp baked in a creamy garlic sauce with gooey cheese? Yes, please! This is one of those meals that feels elegant but is actually super easy to make at home.

I’ve always loved the idea of seafood casseroles, but they’re often complicated or time-consuming. Not this one! The prep is quick, the ingredients are simple, and the results are restaurant-worthy. If you love garlic butter shrimp, cheesy bakes, or cozy comfort food, this recipe is about to become a favorite.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Shrimp Gratin

Here’s why this dish is going to earn a spot in your regular rotation:

• Quick prep and easy baking—ready in 30 minutes or less
• Juicy shrimp baked to perfection in a creamy garlic sauce
• Gooey, cheesy topping that gets bubbly and golden brown
• Minimal cleanup—just one baking dish!
• Impressive enough for dinner guests but simple enough for a weeknight

What Does Garlic Shrimp Gratin Taste Like?

Think of this as a cheesy, garlicky shrimp scampi meets au gratin potatoes—only there are no potatoes, just all the shrimp and creaminess you want! The shrimp are tender and juicy, soaking up all the flavors of the garlic butter sauce. The cheese adds richness without overpowering the seafood, and the gratin topping turns golden and bubbly for that irresistible finish.

Benefits of This Recipe

• High protein, low carb
• Elegant but easy—a great dinner for holidays or date night
• Quick to make—no special tools required
• Pairs beautifully with bread, pasta, or rice
• Naturally gluten-free if you skip the breadcrumb topping

Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp Gratin

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese (optional but recommended)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
• Optional: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs for topping

Tools You’ll Need

• Oven-safe baking dish
• Medium skillet (for melting butter and cooking garlic)
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

I promised you options, so here are a few ideas:

• Use scallops or lobster chunks instead of shrimp for a twist
• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter version
• Add cooked spinach or mushrooms to the gratin for extra veggies
• Use just Parmesan and mozzarella if you don’t have Gruyère
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat

How to Make Garlic Shrimp Gratin

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 3: Pour in the heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Arrange the raw shrimp in a single layer in your baking dish. Pour the garlic cream sauce evenly over the shrimp.

Step 5: Sprinkle mozzarella and Gruyère (if using) on top. For extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese.

Step 6: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and the cheese is bubbling and golden.

Step 7: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

What to Serve with Garlic Shrimp Gratin

This dish is rich and creamy, so it pairs well with:

• Crusty French bread for dipping
• Buttered pasta or angel hair pasta
• Steamed white rice or risotto
• Roasted vegetables or a light salad

Tips for Success

• Use raw shrimp—not pre-cooked—so they stay juicy and tender.
• Don’t overbake! Shrimp cook quickly; check at the 10-minute mark.
• Gruyère adds a nutty depth to the cheese layer but is optional.
• For extra garlic lovers, add a pinch of garlic powder on top before baking.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat gently in the oven or microwave—be careful not to overcook the shrimp.
• This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, as seafood doesn’t freeze well once baked with cream.

General Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Servings: 4

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the gratin up to the point of baking and refrigerate it for a few hours. Bake when ready to serve.

What kind of shrimp should I use?
Large or extra-large shrimp are best. Fresh or frozen (thawed) both work.

Can I make it spicy?
Yes! Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the cream sauce for heat.

Is this gluten-free?
It is if you skip the breadcrumb topping.

Conclusion

Garlic Shrimp Gratin is the kind of recipe that feels like a restaurant meal but is totally doable at home. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with garlic butter flavor, it’s the ultimate comfort food for seafood lovers. Serve it with pasta, bread, or salad for a complete meal that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.

If you enjoyed this recipe, check out:

• Baked Seafood Mac and Cheese
• Cheesy Garlic Butter Scallops
• Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Pasta

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 410
Protein: 32g
Carbs: 4g
Fat: 30g
Fiber: 0g
Sodium: 720mg

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July 22, 2025 by Melissa