Creamy Shrimp Gratin is a rich, comforting, and elegant seafood dish featuring tender shrimp baked under a golden, bubbly cheese crust. With its velvety cream sauce, savory garlic notes, and lightly toasted topping, this gratin delivers restaurant-quality flavor with surprisingly simple prep.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or holidays, this French-inspired dish transforms basic ingredients into a luxurious meal that warms the soul. Serve it with bread, rice, or pasta, and watch everyone ask for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking – Fast prep and oven-finished elegance.
- Irresistibly Creamy – Rich sauce with golden baked cheese.
- Family-Friendly – Mild, comforting seafood dish.
- Wholesome & Hearty – High-protein shrimp with rich flavors.
- Simple Ingredients – Mostly pantry + fresh shrimp.
- Customizable – Add veggies, spices, or a crisp breadcrumb topping.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt & pepper to taste
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Optional crunchy topping:
- ½ cup breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tbsp melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Ingredients:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pat shrimp dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet.
Add shrimp and cook 1–2 minutes per side until just pink.
Remove and set aside.
3. Build the Cream Sauce:
In the same skillet, add onions and garlic; sauté until soft.
Sprinkle flour if using.
Pour in cream and milk, whisking until smooth.
Add lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Simmer until slightly thickened.
4. Combine & Assemble:
Stir shrimp back into the sauce.
Transfer mixture to an oven-safe baking dish.
Top with mozzarella, Parmesan, and optional breadcrumbs.
5. Bake:
Bake 15–20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Broil 2–3 minutes for a deeper golden crust.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve hot with bread, rice, or pasta.
How to Serve
Plating Tips:
Serve sizzling hot from the oven with lightly toasted baguette slices.
Side Pairings:
- Buttered rice
- Linguine or fettuccine
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
Leftover Uses:
- Shrimp gratin pasta
- Stuffed baked potatoes
- Seafood toast
- Creamy seafood dip
Beverage Pairing:
- Chardonnay
- Sparkling lemon water
- Light rosé
Additional Tips
- Do not overcook shrimp, they continue cooking in the oven.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for a heartier gratin.
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.
- Add cayenne if you love a spicy kick.
Variations
- Spicy Cajun Version: Add Cajun seasoning + pepper jack cheese.
- Veggie Gratin: Add spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli.
- Ultra Cheesy: Use mozzarella + Gruyère + Parmesan.
- Crunchy Top: Add buttered panko for extra crispness.
Storage & Freezing
Refrigerate: Up to 2–3 days.
Freeze: Not recommended (cream sauce may separate).
Reheat: In oven or skillet with a splash of cream.
Special Equipment
- Skillet
- Oven-safe baking dish
- Whisk
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw fully and pat dry before cooking.
Can I skip the flour?
Yes, if you prefer a looser sauce.
Can I substitute heavy cream?
Half-and-half works, but sauce will be slightly thinner.
Is this dish spicy?
No, but you can add paprika, cayenne, or chili flakes.
Conclusion
Creamy Shrimp Gratin is a luxurious yet easy seafood dish that’s perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. With its tender shrimp, creamy sauce, and golden baked top, it delivers warmth, flavor, and richness in every bite. A guaranteed favorite for shrimp lovers everywhere.
