Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese

This Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese combines the classic comfort of a grilled cheese sandwich with succulent shrimp and the rich flavors of cheesy garlic bread. Perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this sandwich is loaded with melty cheese, tender shrimp, and buttery garlic goodness. It’s a unique twist on the traditional grilled cheese that’s sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb shrimp (peeled, deveined, and cooked)
• 4 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough, French bread, or Italian work great)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any melty cheese of choice)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Sauté the Shrimp: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the shrimp to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet, roughly chop them, and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

1. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and chopped parsley.
2. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on one side of each slice of bread.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

1. Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
2. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese on each slice.
3. Add the chopped shrimp on top of the cheese, spreading them out evenly.
4. Sprinkle more cheese on top of the shrimp, then place the remaining slices of bread on top, buttered side up.

Step 4: Grill the Sandwich

1. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil for extra crispness, if desired.
2. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing down slightly with a spatula to help the cheese melt and the bread crisp up.
3. The sandwiches are ready when the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for a minute.
2. Slice each sandwich in half and serve immediately. Enjoy your cheesy, garlicky, shrimp-packed grilled cheese!

Cook Notes

• Use Cooked Shrimp: If you’re using precooked shrimp, simply reheat them in the skillet with the garlic for about a minute, then proceed with the recipe.
• Garlic Lovers: If you love garlic, feel free to add extra garlic to the butter mixture or even rub a fresh garlic clove on the bread after grilling.
• Cheese Options: While mozzarella and cheddar are great, you can also use a combination of cheeses like Gruyère, provolone, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.

Variations

• Spicy Shrimp Grilled Cheese: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp for a spicy kick.
• Cajun Shrimp Grilled Cheese: Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning instead of Italian herbs for a Southern twist.
• Lobster Grilled Cheese: For a more luxurious version, substitute shrimp with lobster meat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can quickly thaw shrimp by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 10-15 minutes.

What kind of bread is best for grilled cheese?

Thicker, sturdy breads like sourdough, French, or Italian bread work best for grilled cheese. They hold up well to the butter and cheese and provide a crispy texture when grilled.

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh for the crispiest texture and gooey cheese. However, you can prepare the shrimp and garlic butter ahead of time and assemble the sandwiches when ready to cook.

What can I serve with this grilled cheese?

Serve this sandwich with a side of tomato soup, a fresh salad, or even roasted vegetables. It’s also great on its own for a quick and satisfying meal.

How do I reheat leftovers?

To reheat leftover sandwiches, place them in a skillet over medium heat and cook for a few minutes on each side until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave, as it may make the bread soggy.

This Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese is a mouthwatering twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. With garlicky butter, melty cheese, and juicy shrimp, it’s an indulgent treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick lunch or serving it up for a special dinner, this sandwich is sure to be a hit!