Shrimp gratin is a satisfying dish that combines tender shrimp with a creamy, cheesy topping. It’s perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or when you want a simple yet elegant dish. This article will guide you through the recipe, preparation steps, and tips to make your shrimp gratin a success.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need:
- 1 pound (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Gruyere or Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the shrimp:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and onion. Sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Add shrimp, season with paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink. Set aside.
- Make the sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in half the grated cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the gratin:
- Arrange cooked shrimp in a baking dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the shrimp.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs and remaining cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve:
- Sprinkle chopped parsley on top.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Gratin
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor. Frozen shrimp works if thawed properly.
- Substitute Gruyere with cheddar or mozzarella if preferred.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce for extra flavor.
- For a crunchier topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter before sprinkling.
Health Benefits
Shrimp is rich in protein, low in calories, and contains essential nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12. Pairing it with a creamy sauce makes this dish comforting while providing nutritional value.
FAQs
1. Can I make shrimp gratin in advance?
Yes. Assemble the gratin without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
2. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time during the initial step to avoid overcooking.
3. Can I freeze shrimp gratin?
It’s not recommended due to the creamy sauce. Freezing can cause separation.
4. What can I serve with shrimp gratin?
Serve it with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
This shrimp gratin recipe brings warmth and flavor to your table. Try it today and impress your family and friends.