Every time I make this Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese, it brings back such sweet memories of those cozy winter evenings spent in the kitchen with my family. I remember my late husband and I would take turns at the stove, laughing and joking as we created delicious dishes together. This recipe, in particular, was one of our favorites. The aroma of melting cheese and sizzling shrimp filled the kitchen, wrapping us in a warm and comforting hug of flavors. I know once you try it, you’ll feel that same warmth and love that made this dish a staple in our home!
How to make Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese
Ingredients:
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8 slices of your favorite bread: I often use a nice, crusty bread to give the sandwich texture and support the gooey cheese. You could use sourdough or even whole grain if you prefer!
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: This is where that melty goodness comes from! You could substitute it with provolone or a cheese you love.
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: It adds a savory kick to your sandwich, really elevating the flavors. I like to use freshly grated for the best taste.
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1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh shrimp can be a game changer! If you’re in a pinch, don’t worry; frozen shrimp works too. Just make sure they’re thawed and patted dry.
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2 tablespoons butter: This is going to make everything delicious as we sauté the shrimp and spread on the bread.
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4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must in my kitchen! The aroma as it’s cooking is simply irresistible.
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Fresh herbs really brighten up the dish, adding a pop of color and flavor.
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1/2 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors.
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper: This adds a subtle heat to the dish. Adjust according to your taste!
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1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): If you love a bit of spice, this is your chance to add it!
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4 tablespoons butter (for grilling): More butter equals more flavor! It helps achieve that golden brown crust we all crave.
Cooking Steps
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Prepare the Garlic Butter Shrimp: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
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Once melted, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Trust me, this step is heavenly!
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Add in 1/2 pound of shrimp, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if you’re feeling spicy). Cook them until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
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Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Just wait — your kitchen is smelling divine already!
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In a small bowl, mix the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter with half of your chopped 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley and some of the sautéed garlic, creating a lovely garlic butter spread.
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Assemble your sandwiches: Spread the garlic butter on one side of each slice of your 8 slices of bread.
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On the non-buttered side of 4 slices of bread, layer with 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, your shrimp, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
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Sprinkle with the remaining fresh parsley for that herbaceous finish.
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Top with another slice of bread, buttered side out. Now you’ve got a delicious sandwich ready to grill!
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Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet and cook until golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side. (Don’t forget to flip and savor the aroma!)
Why I Love Making This Dish:
There’s something so special about this Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese. It’s not just a sandwich; it’s a comfort food that brings back beautiful memories of cooking together. The combination of crispy, buttery garlic bread and gooey melted cheese wrapped around perfectly cooked shrimp makes every bite feel like a warm hug.
What You’ll Need:
Make sure you have a good skillet or griddle. I love my heavy-bottomed skillet—it distributes heat evenly, making it easier to achieve that perfect crispy crust. A spatula is also handy for flipping your sandwiches without a mess.
Step-by-Step Guide:
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First, preheat your skillet over medium heat. Trust me, this is key for that crispy exterior!
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Then, prepare your garlic butter and sauté your shrimp.
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Next, assemble your sandwiches with that glorious garlic butter, ensuring to layer the cheeses and shrimp.
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Finally, grill those sandwiches to gooey perfection — two to four minutes on each side should do the trick!
Tips for Perfect Results:
One trick I swear by is using a weighted press on top of the sandwiches while grilling. It helps everything meld together and creates a crust that is just out of this world! If you love your cheese extra gooey, feel free to add a bit more mozzarella.
Serving Suggestions and Sides:
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or even a bowl of warm, creamy tomato soup! I love to serve it with a homemade dipping sauce on the side—perhaps something tangy to balance the richness of the sandwich. A squeeze of lemon on your shrimp gives a fresh note, too!
Leftovers:
Oh, and if you have any leftovers (which I doubt you will), just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, pop them back in a skillet or toaster oven to reheat. Just remember, the key to keeping that crispiness is not to use the microwave if you can avoid it!
FAQ Section:
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work just fine. Just make sure they are thoroughly thawed and patted dry before cooking. It’s a great timesaver, especially if you’re short on fresh ingredients.
Can I use different types of cheese?
You bet! While mozzarella is my go-to for that gooey texture, you can mix it up with cheeses like cheddar or even a spicy pepper jack if you’re feeling adventurous.
Is it okay to add extra spices?
Of course! This is your sandwich; make it your own! Feel free to add a dash of cayenne or Italian seasoning to the shrimp for an extra kick.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley? Can I use dried herbs instead?
While fresh herbs add a delightful brightness, you can certainly use dried herbs in a pinch. Just remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use less than you would with fresh—about a third of the amount should do!
This Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese has become a favorite in my house, and I’m so excited for you to try it. You’ll love how easy and delicious it is! When your family bites into this wonderful sandwich, you’ll see those smiles light up their faces. Trust me, they’ll ask for seconds just like mine do every time. So go ahead, give it a whirl, and let me know how it turns out! You won’t regret it!