Shrimp Au Gratin: Creamy and Cheesy Delight

Name: Shrimp Au Gratin: Creamy and Cheesy Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 portions
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 500 g shrimp (peeled and deveined); 2 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (freshly grated); to taste salt and pepper; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons butter (melted)

50 min 4 portions Medium

All Recipes

Indulge in a creamy and cheesy shrimp au gratin, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a comforting and elegant dish.

Prep

20 min

Cook

25 min

Total

50 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Shrimp au gratin is a luxurious yet comforting dish that combines succulent shrimp with a creamy, cheesy sauce. It's baked to perfection with a golden crust that adds a delightful texture to each bite. This version is perfect for those who love seafood and appreciate the rich flavours of a well-made gratin. Our recipe ensures a perfectly balanced dish with just the right amount of creaminess and a hint of garlic to elevate the natural sweetness of the shrimp. It's an excellent choice for a special dinner or a cozy night in, making it suitable for both experienced cooks and those new to seafood dishes.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

Pro tip: A hot oven ensures a crispy, golden topping.

Prepare the shrimp

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the shrimp and cook until they just turn pink, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.

Pro tip: Do not overcook the shrimp as they will continue to cook in the oven.

Make the sauce

In the same skillet, add the flour and stir to combine with remaining butter. Cook for 1 minute. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking constantly until smooth. Stir in the Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy.

Pro tip: Grate your own cheese for best melting results.

Combine and season

Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Pro tip: Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Prepare the topping

In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.

Pro tip: Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Assemble the gratin

Transfer the shrimp and sauce to a baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.

Pro tip: Use a shallow dish for even cooking.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Let it rest

Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro tip: This allows the sauce to thicken slightly.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavour and texture.
Grate your own cheese for a smoother melt.
Let the gratin rest for a few minutes before serving to set.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is shrimp au gratin?

Shrimp au gratin is a dish where shrimp is baked in a creamy cheese sauce with a breadcrumb topping, creating a golden crust.

How many calories are in shrimp au gratin?

A serving of shrimp au gratin contains approximately 450 calories.

Can shrimp au gratin be made ahead?

Yes, you can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

What cheese is best for shrimp au gratin?

Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses are ideal for shrimp au gratin due to their melting qualities and robust flavours.

How long does shrimp au gratin last in the fridge?

Shrimp au gratin can be stored in the fridge for up to two days.

What should I serve with shrimp au gratin?

Serve it with a green salad and a glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve shrimp au gratin with a fresh green salad and a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. To store leftovers, cover tightly and refrigerate for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the creamy texture without overcooking the shrimp.