Description
Succulent garlic shrimp gratin brings Mediterranean coastal flavors to your dinner table with rich, creamy elegance. Parmesan-crusted prawns nestled in a velvety sauce promise a luxurious culinary escape you’ll savor down to the last delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Dairy and Cheese:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
Flavor Enhancers and Seasonings:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup (60 ml) dry white wine (optional)
- ¼ cup (25 g) breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Meticulously dry the shrimp using paper towels, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Warm butter in a skillet over medium heat, gently searing the shrimp for 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn pale pink and are slightly undercooked. Transfer the shrimp to a separate plate.
- In the same skillet, introduce minced garlic and sauté until its aromatic essence permeates the butter, creating a fragrant base for the sauce.
- Incorporate heavy cream and white wine, allowing the mixture to simmer and gradually thicken, developing a rich, velvety consistency.
- Remove the skillet from heat and fold in grated Parmesan cheese, a splash of bright lemon juice, and freshly chopped parsley, creating a harmonious sauce.
- Carefully distribute the shrimp in a single layer within an ovenproof dish, ensuring even coverage.
- Cascade the garlic cream sauce over the shrimp, then generously sprinkle mozzarella cheese to create a luxurious blanket.
- Dust the surface with breadcrumbs, providing a promising golden, crispy texture.
- Slide the dish into a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven, baking for 10-12 minutes until the cheese melts and transforms into a golden-brown masterpiece.
- For an extra crisp finish, activate the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish with additional parsley, creating a vibrant visual appeal, and serve immediately alongside crusty bread or a light salad.
Notes
- Choose plump, fresh shrimp with no discoloration or strong fishy smell to guarantee the best flavor and texture.
- Pat shrimp completely dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture and ensure perfect caramelization and crispy edges.
- Use fresh garlic cloves instead of pre-minced for more intense, robust flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Opt for high-quality Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses for a richer, more complex taste profile.
- For a low-carb version, replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds to maintain crispiness.
- Enhance dairy-free adaptations by substituting heavy cream with coconut cream and using nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
- Control spice levels by adding red pepper flakes or cayenne for those who enjoy a subtle kick without overwhelming heat.
- Select medium-sized shrimp for more consistent cooking and easier eating experience in the gratin.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 220 mg