When it comes to grilled cheese, why settle for ordinary? This Garlic Shrimp Grilled Cheese elevates the classic sandwich to a whole new level. Imagine creamy, garlicky shrimp combined with gooey mozzarella, all nestled between two slices of golden, crispy sourdough bread. Not only does this Garlic Shrimp Grilled Cheese offer a seafood-inspired twist on comfort food, but it’s also rich, satisfying, and perfect for a special treat. Whether you’re making it for a hearty lunch, a quick dinner, or even a showstopper for brunch, this grilled cheese is sure to impress with its luscious layers of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices sourdough bread
- 1 cup shrimp, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Shrimp Mixture
- To start, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant and golden.
Step 2: Mix the Shrimp
- Next, add the chopped shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the garlic butter. After that, add the cream cheese and stir until the mixture is creamy and thoroughly combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cook for about 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
- On a clean surface, place one slice of sourdough bread. Now, spread the garlic shrimp and cream cheese mixture evenly on top.
- Afterward, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the shrimp mixture, creating a thick layer of cheese.
- Finally, top with the second slice of sourdough bread to form a sandwich.
Step 4: Grill the Sandwich
- In the same skillet, place the sandwich over medium heat. Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the mozzarella cheese has fully melted.
Step 5: Serve
- To serve, remove the grilled cheese from the skillet and transfer it to a plate. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve hot and enjoy the ultimate cheesy, gooey experience.
Variation
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a hint of heat, balancing the creaminess of the cheese and shrimp.
- Parmesan Addition: Sprinkle a tablespoon of Parmesan cheese along with mozzarella for a richer, more complex flavor profile.
- Herb Twist: Swap parsley with fresh basil or cilantro for a unique herbal note that complements the garlic and cheese.
- Whole Wheat Sourdough: For a healthier option, use whole wheat sourdough, which offers extra fiber without sacrificing texture.
Cooking Note
- Bread Selection: Sourdough is the best option for this recipe because it provides a sturdy structure and a slight tangy flavor that balances the rich filling. However, if sourdough isn’t available, thick slices of country or artisan bread are great alternatives.
- Garlic Butter Tip: For an extra layer of garlic flavor, brush the outside of each slice of bread with garlic butter before placing it in the skillet. This technique will enhance the flavor and create an irresistible, crispy exterior.
- Cream Cheese Substitute: If you’re out of cream cheese, you can use a soft goat cheese or ricotta, which will still give you a creamy consistency with a slightly different flavor twist.
Serving Suggestions
- With Tomato Soup: A classic pairing, tomato soup provides a light and acidic balance to the richness of the grilled cheese.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds freshness and a light contrast, making the meal feel complete.
- With Pickles: A side of pickles or pickled vegetables can cut through the richness of the cheese, offering a crunchy, tangy element.
- Roasted Vegetables: For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus.
Tips
- Don’t Rush the Grilling: Keep the skillet at medium heat to ensure the cheese melts slowly without burning the bread.
- Use Fresh Mozzarella: For the best melt, opt for fresh mozzarella, which has a creamier texture than pre-shredded varieties.
- Avoid Overloading: Though tempting, avoid adding too much filling to ensure that the sandwich cooks evenly and holds together well.
- Slice After Resting: Allow the grilled cheese to sit for a minute before slicing to avoid cheese spilling out and to give it a cleaner cut.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
20 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Protein: 34g
- Sodium: 950mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly fine! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before cooking. This will ensure the shrimp doesn’t dilute the creamy garlic mixture.
What other cheeses can I use if I don’t have mozzarella?
Mozzarella is ideal for its melting quality, but you can use provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a slightly sharper taste.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic shrimp mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, simply assemble and grill the sandwich.
How can I make this sandwich healthier?
Use whole-grain bread, reduce the amount of cheese, and opt for low-fat cream cheese to cut down on calories and fat content. Serve with a side salad to balance the meal.
Can I make this without butter?
Yes, you can substitute butter with olive oil if desired. However, butter adds richness that complements the garlic and shrimp, enhancing the overall flavor.
Conclusion
The Ultimate Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese is an indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion when you’re craving something truly comforting and satisfying. This recipe combines the best of shrimp scampi and classic grilled cheese into one unforgettable sandwich. The crispy sourdough, creamy garlic shrimp filling, and melty mozzarella come together in harmony to create a rich, flavorful experience. Pair it with a light side like tomato soup or a fresh salad, and you’ll have a meal that’s both luxurious and comforting, offering a delightful twist on the beloved grilled cheese. Enjoy every bite of this mouthwatering creation!
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Ultimate Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese
- Total Time: 20
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 slices sourdough bread
- 1 cup shrimp, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Shrimp Mixture
- To start, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant and golden.
Step 2: Mix the Shrimp
- Next, add the chopped shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the garlic butter. After that, add the cream cheese and stir until the mixture is creamy and thoroughly combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cook for about 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
- On a clean surface, place one slice of sourdough bread. Now, spread the garlic shrimp and cream cheese mixture evenly on top.
- Afterward, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the shrimp mixture, creating a thick layer of cheese.
- Finally, top with the second slice of sourdough bread to form a sandwich.
Step 4: Grill the Sandwich
- In the same skillet, place the sandwich over medium heat. Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the mozzarella cheese has fully melted.
Step 5: Serve
- To serve, remove the grilled cheese from the skillet and transfer it to a plate. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve hot and enjoy the ultimate cheesy, gooey experience.
Notes
Cooking Note
- Bread Selection: Sourdough is the best option for this recipe because it provides a sturdy structure and a slight tangy flavor that balances the rich filling. However, if sourdough isn’t available, thick slices of country or artisan bread are great alternatives.
- Garlic Butter Tip: For an extra layer of garlic flavor, brush the outside of each slice of bread with garlic butter before placing it in the skillet. This technique will enhance the flavor and create an irresistible, crispy exterior.
- Cream Cheese Substitute: If you’re out of cream cheese, you can use a soft goat cheese or ricotta, which will still give you a creamy consistency with a slightly different flavor twist.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 10
Nutrition
- Calories: 580
- Sodium: 950mg
- Protein: 34g