why make this recipe

Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese is a delicious twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. It combines the rich flavors of garlic butter, succulent shrimp, and melted cheese, making it a perfect meal for any seafood lover. The crispy bread and creamy filling will satisfy your cravings and impress your family or friends. It’s quick to make and uses simple ingredients, so it’s ideal for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.

how to make Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese

Ingredients

1 loaf French bread, halved lengthwise
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon salt
225 grams large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
8 slices of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss recommended)
100 grams shredded mozzarella cheese
Butter for grilling

Directions

In a bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, dried parsley, dried basil, and salt. Mix well to create a garlic butter spread.
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Spread the garlic butter evenly on the cut sides of the French bread. Place the bread halves on a baking tray and bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are golden and crisp. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Pat the shrimp dry and season them with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add to the hot skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until the shrimp is pink and opaque. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate.
Place one half of the baked garlic bread, buttered side down, in a clean skillet over medium heat. Layer cheese slices on top, sprinkle shredded mozzarella, and evenly distribute the cooked shrimp. Top with the other half of the bread, buttered side facing up.
Lightly butter the top of the sandwich. Grill for 2–3 minutes on each side or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese melts completely.
Remove from the skillet, slice the sandwich in half, and serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.

how to serve Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese

This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Serve it with a simple side salad or some crispy fries for a complete meal. You can also dip it in marinara sauce or serve it with a side of your favorite dipping sauce to enhance the flavors.

how to store Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese

If you have leftovers, store the sandwich in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to eat it within 1-2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in a skillet over low heat to get the bread crispy again and the cheese melty.

tips to make Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese

Make sure not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough. Just cook until they’re pink and opaque.
Feel free to mix up the cheese! Using a blend of cheeses can add different flavors and textures.
Experiment with spices in the shrimp seasoning to make it your own.

variation

You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor. Alternatively, you can replace the shrimp with crab meat or lobster for a luxurious twist.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

What type of bread works best?

French bread is ideal for this recipe because it’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. However, you can use any bread you prefer, such as sourdough or ciabatta.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic butter and cooked shrimp in advance. Just assemble and grill the sandwich when you’re ready to eat.