Description
Shrimp Grilled Cheese with Garlic Bread combines the creamy, cheesy comfort of a classic grilled cheese sandwich with succulent, seasoned shrimp and rich garlic butter. This decadent meal features tender shrimp cooked with garlic and spices, sandwiched between slices of buttered sourdough bread loaded with cheddar and cream cheese, then grilled to golden perfection. Served alongside toasted garlic bread, it’s a flavorful, indulgent treat perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Shrimp:
- 12-15 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Grilled Cheese:
- 4 slices sourdough bread (or your preferred bread)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)
For the Garlic Bread:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat, drizzle with lemon juice, and set aside.
- Make the grilled cheese: Preheat a griddle or large skillet over medium heat. Butter one side of each bread slice with the prepared garlic butter. Spread cream cheese on the unbuttered side (optional). Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on two slices. Arrange cooked shrimp on top of the cheese. Top with remaining bread slices, garlic butter side facing out.
- Grill the sandwiches: Place sandwiches on the griddle or skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula until the bread is golden and cheese is melted. Lower heat if needed to avoid burning.
- Make the garlic bread: While sandwiches grill, spread remaining garlic butter on additional bread slices. Toast on griddle or in oven for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Serve: Slice shrimp grilled cheese diagonally and serve with garlic bread. Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add lemon zest to shrimp before cooking.
- Try different cheese combinations like Gruyère, provolone, or pepper jack for varied taste.
- Add sautéed spinach or arugula inside the grilled cheese for more texture and nutrition.
- Serve with spicy mayo or aioli for dipping.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity for preferred heat level.
