Garlic shrimp gratin—it’s like a cozy, culinary hug. The kind of dish that makes you think of seaside vacations where the air is as salty as your fingers after digging into a fresh catch. And now, just imagine this:
the buttery aroma filling your kitchen as you whip up this simple yet indulgent dish. It’s like a warm welcome home.
Steps
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high until the butter melts. Lower the heat to medium, add flour, and stir for about 5 minutes until a thick paste forms. Gradually whisk in milk, bringing it to a simmer, and continue to cook until the sauce is smooth and thick, about 5 to 10 minutes. Season with nutmeg and salt.
- Arrange the shrimp in a casserole dish and coat them with 3 teaspoons of Italian seasoning and a pinch of salt. Pour the sauce over the shrimp and top with Cheddar cheese. Add shallot slices, the remaining Italian seasoning, and parsley, then sprinkle with bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the oven for about 25 minutes until the top is crisp and golden brown.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, or as needed
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg
- Salt, to taste
- 30 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1 shallot, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped, or as desired
- ½ cup dry bread crumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1760 | Total Fat: 100g | Saturated Fat: 52g | Cholesterol: 708mg | Sodium: 2836mg | Total Carbohydrate: 92g | Dietary Fiber: 8g | Total Sugars: 28g | Protein: 124g | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 2324mg | Iron: 16mg | Potassium: 1760mg
FAQ
- What is au gratin?
- Au gratin refers to a cooking technique where a dish is topped with a browned crust, typically using breadcrumbs or cheese. In this recipe, shrimp are combined with a rich sauce and a cheesy breadcrumb topping.
- Can I substitute the shallot with another ingredient?
- Yes, you can substitute the shallot with a finely sliced red onion if preferred.
- What types of vegetables pair well with shrimp au gratin?
- Grilled vegetables such as portobello mushrooms are an excellent complement to shrimp au gratin. Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables.
- Is it possible to use different seasoning blends?
- Absolutely, you can customize this dish by using any seasoning blend that you prefer.
- How many servings does this recipe yield?
- The original recipe provides enough for four servings.
Tips
- Consider experimenting with different seasoning blends to tailor the flavor to your preference. This flexibility allows you to enhance the dish’s taste profile to your liking.
- If you’re out of shallots, feel free to substitute with finely sliced red onions, which will still provide a delightful kick to the dish.
- For added flavor complexity, try mixing different types of cheeses, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack, with the Cheddar and Parmesan.
- To ensure your sauce is smooth and lump-free, gradually whisk in the milk and stir consistently while cooking. This will help you achieve a creamy texture.
Equipment
- Casserole dish
- Large skillet
- Oven-safe baking dish (if not the same as the casserole dish)
- Whisk