Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese

Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese

Description

This Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mash-up. Imagine buttery garlic bread, golden and crispy, oozing with gooey cheese, and stuffed with tender, garlicky shrimp. Each bite combines the crunch of toasted bread, the richness of melted cheese, and the savory flavor of shrimp, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a decadent snack. Quick to prepare yet indulgent enough to impress, this dish is a seafood twist on the classic grilled cheese.

Ingredients for Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese

  • 4 slices thick-cut bread (sourdough or Italian bread works best)

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp parsley, chopped

  • 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined (small or medium size)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded

  • 2 tbsp cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)

Instructions

  1. Prepare garlic butter: Mix softened butter with minced garlic and parsley. Spread generously on one side of each bread slice.

  2. Cook shrimp: In a skillet, heat olive oil. Add shrimp, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes until pink and slightly golden. Set aside.

  3. Assemble sandwich:

    • Place one slice of bread (butter side down) in a skillet.

    • Add a layer of mozzarella, shrimp, cheddar, and a little cream cheese.

    • Top with the second slice of bread, butter side up.

  4. Grill: Cook on medium-low heat until the bread is golden brown and cheese has melted (about 3–4 minutes per side).

  5. Serve: Slice in half and enjoy hot with marinara or garlic dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen shrimp works if thawed properly.

  • A mix of cheeses gives the best stretch and flavor.

  • Low heat ensures cheese melts before the bread burns.

  • Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Tips

  • Press the sandwich gently with a spatula for an even crust.

  • Try adding spinach or caramelized onions for extra flavor.

  • For a crispier texture, bake assembled sandwiches at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes after pan grilling.

Servings

  • Makes 2 hearty sandwiches (2–3 servings).

Nutritional Info (per serving) (approx.)

  • Calories: 540

  • Protein: 32g

  • Carbohydrates: 32g

  • Fat: 30g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sodium: 780mg

Benefits

  • High in protein from shrimp and cheese.

  • Provides calcium and essential minerals.

  • Comfort food with a seafood twist, making it more nutrient-dense than a regular grilled cheese.

  • Quick and easy for busy weeknights.

Q & A

Q1: Can I make this without shrimp?
Yes! Replace shrimp with cooked chicken, mushrooms, or even spinach for a vegetarian version.

Q2: Which cheese works best?
Mozzarella for melt + cheddar for sharpness is ideal, but provolone or gouda also taste amazing.

Q3: Can I meal prep this?
Yes, cook the shrimp ahead and store in the fridge. Assemble and grill fresh for the best crunch.

Q4: What’s the best dipping sauce?
Marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli pair beautifully with this grilled cheese.

Q5: Can I use an air fryer?
Absolutely! Assemble the sandwich, then air fry at 370°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway.

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