Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled cheese
Ingredients
- 4 slices of thick-cut bread (such as sourdough or Texas toast)
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh, finely chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for shrimp)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
- Stir in the minced garlic, parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 30 seconds, then remove from heat.
- Drizzle with a bit of lemon juice for added freshness. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Spread
- In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread this garlic butter mixture generously on one side of each slice of bread.
Step 3: Assemble the Grilled Cheese
- On the unbuttered side of two slices of bread, layer mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Add a generous portion of the cooked shrimp on top of the cheese.
- Top with the other slice of bread, with the buttered side facing out.
Step 4: Grill the Sandwich
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Step 5: Serve
- Once both sides of the sandwich are crispy and the cheese is gooey, remove from the pan and slice in half.
- Serve immediately with a side of marinara or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for Success
- Shrimp: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they cook very quickly and can become rubbery if left in the pan too long.
- Bread: Thick-cut bread like sourdough or Texas toast works best for holding the shrimp and cheese without getting soggy.
- Extra Flavor: Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan on top for extra flavor after grilling.
Variations
- Spicy Garlic Shrimp: Add a dash of hot sauce or sriracha to the garlic butter mixture for an extra kick.
- Add Veggies: Include some spinach, arugula, or roasted bell peppers inside the sandwich for added texture and flavor.
- Cheese Swap: Try swapping out mozzarella for cheddar, gouda, or provolone for a different cheese flavor profile.
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese
- Perfect Comfort Food: It’s the ultimate fusion of a classic grilled cheese sandwich and flavorful shrimp, making it perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Cheesy and Garlicky: The cheesy gooeyness combined with the garlicky bread and shrimp creates a satisfying bite.
- Quick and Flavorful: This sandwich comes together fast but is packed with irresistible flavors.
Enjoy your cheesy garlic bread shrimp grilled cheese! 🧀🍤🍞
