Shrimp Grilled Cheese Garlic

This shrimp grilled cheese with garlic bread is a decadent spin on the comfort food classic offering golden crisp bread loaded with gooey cheese and savory shrimp in every bite. Whether you are craving a fuss-free dinner or planning a weekend lunch this recipe delivers rich flavor and satisfying texture that always wows my family

After trying this once during a beach vacation I have made it part of our Friday night routine and it never lasts long even with picky eaters

Gather Your Ingredients

• Thick cut white or sourdough bread: For sturdy slices that hold all the fillings choose loaves with a dense crumb
• Small cooked shrimp: For tender bites and quick preparation check for freshness and a mild sea scent
• Mozzarella cheese: Brings that classic gooey melt quality grate it fresh for extra smoothness
• Cheddar cheese: For tang and creaminess sharp cheddar adds more flavor depth
• Butter: Softens easily so it spreads evenly look for creamy unsalted for best flavor
• Olive oil: For warming the shrimp adds richness and helps crisp the bread
• Garlic powder and fresh garlic: Deliver layers of garlicky aroma and taste choose firm tight garlic bulbs
• Parsley (optional): Adds a pop of freshness and color use flat leaf for the best flavor
• Salt and pepper: Adjust to your taste and always season the shrimp lightly

How to Make It

Make Garlic Butter:

Mix the softened butter garlic powder minced garlic and parsley very well in a bowl until smooth and even throughout I like to mash it with the back of a spoon so the garlic distributes fully

Prep Shrimp:

If shrimp is frozen thaw under cool water then pat extra dry with paper towels Heat olive oil in a large skillet over a medium flame Add shrimp sprinkle in salt and pepper and sauté two or three minutes just until warmed through but not overcooked Transfer shrimp to a bowl and let cool slightly

Assemble Sandwiches:

Lay bread slices on a flat surface Spread one side of each with garlic butter set butter side down Top half the slices with mozzarella and cheddar scatter shrimp evenly over cheese Top with remaining bread slices butter side up For fullest flavor I always layer cheese both under and over the shrimp

Grill the Sandwiches:

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium Cook sandwiches three to four minutes per side pressing occasionally with a spatula until both sides turn golden crisp and the cheese melts perfectly If your skillet is small do one or two at a time to avoid crowding

Serve Hot:

Transfer sandwiches to a cutting board Settle for a minute to firm up before slicing in half Serve immediately while the cheese is molten and the bread still crunches Audibly crackling bread is the sign of success

My favorite part is the garlic butter because it makes the kitchen smell like an Italian trattoria On the first chilly day of fall I always crave this sandwich and it feels like an indulgent treat but it is so easy and quick to make

Flavor Boosters

Use fresh herbs in summer like chopped basil or chives Try fresh gulf shrimp for a seasonal treat A sprinkle of chili flakes warms it up for fall and winter

Serving Suggestions

Pair your shrimp grilled cheese with a tomato basil soup or a simple salad with lemon vinaigrette This sandwich also matches well next to garlic fries or a chilled cucumber salad for contrast

Creative Twists

Swap in any melty cheese you enjoy like provolone or Monterey jack You can skip shrimp for a veggie version or try sliced mushrooms for a savory option For the bread French loaf or ciabatta works well too

My best friend requests this as her birthday lunch now and it has even convinced my father who dislikes seafood to become a shrimp sandwich fan If you are introducing someone to shrimp for the first time this cheesy format never fails

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use raw shrimp for this dish?

Yes, simply peel and devein raw shrimp, then cook until pink and opaque before adding to the sandwich.

→ What bread works best for the sandwich?

Thick white or sourdough bread holds up well and crisps nicely when grilled with garlic butter.

→ Is it possible to substitute the cheese?

Absolutely. Provolone or Monterey Jack can be used for different flavor or melt characteristics.

→ How can I prevent the bread from burning?

Grill over medium heat and monitor closely, flipping halfway to ensure even browning but not burning.

→ What sides complement this sandwich?

Pair with a simple salad, tomato soup, or crisp pickles for a balanced meal.