Shrimp Grilled Cheese with Garlic (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Main Components
01 -
4 slices thick-cut bread (white or sourdough)
02 -
225 grams small cooked shrimp, thawed
03 -
120 grams shredded mozzarella cheese
04 -
60 grams shredded sharp cheddar cheese
→ Garlic Butter & Seasoning
05 -
60 grams unsalted butter, softened
06 -
15 ml olive oil
07 -
5 ml garlic powder
08 -
2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
09 -
15 ml chopped fresh parsley (optional)
10 -
Salt, to taste
11 -
Ground black pepper, to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, garlic powder, minced garlic, and parsley (if using). Mash with the back of a spoon until smooth and evenly combined.
02 -
If using frozen shrimp, thaw under cool water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until warmed through. Transfer the shrimp to a bowl and allow to cool slightly.
03 -
Lay bread slices on a flat surface. Spread one side of each slice generously with the prepared garlic butter. Place butter-side down. Top half of the slices with mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Distribute the shrimp evenly over the cheese. Top with the remaining bread slices, butter-side up. Layering cheese both under and over the shrimp maximizes flavor and melt.
04 -
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the sandwiches for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing occasionally with a spatula, until both sides are golden brown and crisp, and the cheese is thoroughly melted and gooey. If cooking multiple sandwiches, do so in batches to avoid crowding the pan.
05 -
Transfer the grilled sandwiches to a cutting board. Allow them to rest for one minute before slicing in half. Serve immediately while the cheese is molten and the bread remains crispy.
# Notes:
01 -
Pat the shrimp very dry before assembling the sandwiches to prevent soggy bread.
02 -
Cook the sandwiches low and slow over medium heat to ensure the bread crisps up and the cheese melts completely without burning.
03 -
For the best melt, grate your own cheese from a block.
04 -
In the summer, consider adding fresh chopped basil or chives to the garlic butter for an herb variation.
05 -
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp for a spicy kick.
06 -
French loaf or ciabatta also work well as bread alternatives for this recipe.
07 -
For a vegetarian option, omit the shrimp and try sliced mushrooms for a savory version.
08 -
Pair this dish with a tomato basil soup or a simple salad with lemon vinaigrette for a complete meal.