Hey y'all! If you're searching for a sandwich that's decadent, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this Shrimp Grilled Cheese With Garlic Bread is about to become your new favorite. Imagine juicy shrimp nestled between layers of gooey cheese, all hugged by crispy, buttery garlic bread – it's the ultimate comfort food for lunches, quick dinners, or game-day snacks. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Shrimp Grilled Cheese With Garlic Bread
- Combines savory garlic bread with melty cheese and succulent shrimp for irresistible flavor in every bite.
- Quick and easy recipe – ready in under 30 minutes, even on busy weeknights.
- Perfect as a hearty lunch, indulgent dinner, or crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- Highly customizable with your favorite cheeses or seafood twists.
- Kids and adults alike will rave about this cheesy, crispy sandwich!
Ingredients for Shrimp Grilled Cheese With Garlic Bread
- 8 large slices Italian bread or French bread
- 1 lb raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails off; 26/30 size works best)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How to Make Shrimp Grilled Cheese With Garlic Bread
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and (if using) red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and chop into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
Spread a generous layer of garlic butter on one side of each bread slice. Place four slices, buttered side down, on a work surface. Top with ¼ of the cheese mixture and ¼ of the shrimp. Cover each with another bread slice, buttered side up.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add the sandwiches in batches, pressing gently. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Adjust heat as necessary to prevent burning.
Step 5: Serve
Remove from pan, slice in half, and sprinkle with extra parsley. Serve hot for ultimate gooeyness!
Notes & Cooking Tips for Shrimp Grilled Cheese With Garlic Bread
- Use freshly grated cheese for best melt and flavor – pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly (cheese melting tips).
- Don't overcook the shrimp; they should just turn pink and curl up, staying juicy and tender.
- Try sourdough or ciabatta if you want a tangy twist or extra crunch (learn more about bread types).
Variations: Shrimp Grilled Cheese With Garlic Bread
- Cajun Style: Toss shrimp in Cajun seasoning before sautéing for a spicy Southern kick.
- Caprese: Add sliced tomatoes and a handful of basil leaves with the cheese for an Italian touch.
- Avocado Upgrade: Layer slices of ripe avocado for a creamy, fresh flavor.
Required Equipment for Shrimp Grilled Cheese With Garlic Bread
- Large skillet or griddle
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Storage & Shelf Life
Wrap leftover sandwiches tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven at 350°F (177°C) for 8-10 minutes to regain crispness. Freezing is not recommended, as shrimp texture may suffer.
Serving Suggestions for Shrimp Grilled Cheese With Garlic Bread
- Pair with a crisp green salad or classic tomato soup.
- Serve with a side of marinara or aioli for dipping.
- Enjoy with a cold glass of lemonade or a light white wine.
Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp Grilled Cheese With Garlic Bread
- Let the cheese come to room temperature before assembling for maximum melt (grilled cheese science).
- Use medium-low heat for the perfect golden crust without burning the garlic butter.
- Press sandwiches with a spatula or another heavy skillet for extra crunch.
FAQ: Shrimp Grilled Cheese With Garlic Bread
- Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
- Yes, but just warm them quickly; avoid overcooking or they’ll become rubbery.
- What cheese works best in this sandwich?
- Mozzarella and sharp cheddar offer the perfect balance of melt and flavor, but feel free to try provolone or gouda.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Absolutely! Just use your favorite gluten-free bread and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Check out gluten-free resources here.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 8 slices Italian bread
- 2 cups cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
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1In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic and chopped parsley until well combined.
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2Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on one side of each bread slice.
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3Place half of the bread slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface. Top each with a mix of mozzarella and cheddar cheese, followed by an even layer of cooked shrimp. Season with salt and black pepper.
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4Cover with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
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5Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the sandwiches for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
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6Remove from heat, slice, and serve warm.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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