There's nothing quite like the rich, bubbling goodness of Garlic Shrimp Gratin straight from the oven. With tender shrimp bathed in a creamy, garlicky sauce and topped with golden, crispy breadcrumbs, this dish is the perfect balance of indulgence and simplicity.

I first discovered this recipe while on a coastal getaway, where a small seaside bistro served a version so unforgettable that I had to recreate it at home. Now, it's a staple whenever I want to impress guests or simply treat myself to something special.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Shrimp Gratin

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that’s as easy as it is delicious. Garlic Shrimp Gratin is the ultimate comfort food with an elegant twist.

First off, it’s incredibly simple to make. You don’t need to be a professional chef to pull off this restaurant-quality dish. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a gratin that looks and tastes impressive.

It’s also packed with flavor. The combination of juicy shrimp, aromatic garlic, and a luscious cream sauce creates an irresistible bite every time. A crispy, cheesy topping adds the perfect contrast to the creamy filling.

Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a main dish with a side of crusty bread, or even over pasta, it adapts beautifully to your needs.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Garlic Shrimp Gratin lies in its simple yet carefully selected ingredients. Each one plays an important role in bringing out the rich flavors of the dish.

Let’s start with the shrimp. Use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best results. Fresh shrimp work best, but high-quality frozen shrimp can also do the trick—just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

The garlic is where the bold flavor comes from. Freshly minced garlic is key here, as it infuses the dish with a deep, aromatic richness that makes the gratin so irresistible.

For the cream sauce, a mix of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates the perfect velvety texture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half, but keep in mind that the sauce may not be as thick and creamy.

No gratin is complete without a crispy topping. A combination of panko breadcrumbs and butter creates that golden, crunchy layer that adds contrast to the creamy shrimp underneath. Adding a little extra Parmesan to the topping takes it to the next level.

A sturdy gratin dish or ovenproof skillet is ideal for baking, ensuring even cooking and a beautiful presentation straight from the oven to the table.

How To Make This Garlic Shrimp Gratin

Creating this Garlic Shrimp Gratin is easier than you might think, and the results are absolutely mouthwatering.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, prepare your shrimp by seasoning them with a pinch of salt and pepper. This enhances their natural sweetness and ensures they stay juicy during baking.

Next, heat butter in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—garlic turns bitter quickly! Once the aroma fills your kitchen, add the shrimp and cook for just a couple of minutes until they start to turn pink. Remove them from the heat immediately to avoid overcooking.

Now, it’s time for the creamy sauce. In the same pan, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, letting them melt together into a silky consistency. A touch of white wine or lemon juice can brighten the flavors and cut through the richness.

Arrange the shrimp in your baking dish and pour the sauce over them. Sprinkle a generous layer of panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and Parmesan on top for that irresistible golden crust.

Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. A quick broil at the end can add even more crispiness to the topping if desired.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (though it's rare with a dish this good!), Garlic Shrimp Gratin stores beautifully for future enjoyment.

For short-term storage, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain the crispy topping.

Freezing is an option, but the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing. If you do freeze it, store it in an airtight container for up to one month, and reheat in the oven after thawing in the fridge overnight.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Garlic Shrimp Gratin is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ways to tweak the recipe to your liking.

Add mushrooms or spinach: Sautéed mushrooms or a handful of fresh spinach add an extra layer of texture and flavor to the dish.
Use different cheeses: While Parmesan is classic, a mix of Gruyère and mozzarella can make the gratin even more decadent.
Swap the shrimp for another protein: Try using scallops, crab, or even cooked chicken for a different twist on this creamy gratin.
Make it spicy: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add some welcome heat to balance out the richness.

No matter how you customize it, this Garlic Shrimp Gratin is sure to be a hit. Experiment and make it your own!