Description
Creamy Mediterranean Shrimp Gratin whisks palates through southern French coastal kitchens with rich, golden-baked elegance. Ocean-fresh shrimp nestled in parmesan-kissed sauce promise delightful comfort you’ll savor down to the last delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 30 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
Dairy and Cheese:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Other Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg
- 4 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 shallot, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- ½ cup dry bread crumbs
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Warm the culinary workspace by heating the oven to 350 degrees F, creating an ideal environment for the upcoming baking process.
- Craft a silky foundation by melting butter and olive oil in a skillet, then gently incorporating flour to develop a smooth, golden roux. Whisk attentively until the mixture transforms into a pale, velvety paste.
- Transform the roux into a luxurious cream sauce by gradually introducing milk, stirring constantly to eliminate any potential lumps. Allow the mixture to gently simmer and thicken, infusing it with a delicate whisper of nutmeg and a subtle salt seasoning.
- Prepare the gratin vessel by arranging plump shrimp in an even layer, generously coating them with Italian seasoning and a touch of salt to enhance their natural sweetness.
- Create a harmonious flavor profile by cascading the luscious cream sauce over the seasoned shrimp. Generously shower the surface with sharp Cheddar cheese, scatter delicate shallot rings, sprinkle remaining Italian seasoning and fresh parsley for aromatic depth.
- Complete the dish with a crunchy breadcrumb blanket and a generous dusting of Parmesan cheese, providing a crisp, golden crown.
- Slide the prepared gratin into the preheated oven, allowing it to bake until the top transforms into a golden, crispy masterpiece, approximately 25 minutes.
Notes
- Elevate this dish by choosing fresh, medium-sized shrimp for the most tender and succulent texture.
- Grate cheese just before using to ensure maximum melting potential and rich, creamy flavor throughout the gratin.
- Aim to create a golden-brown crust by using high-quality butter and monitoring the oven temperature closely.
- Allow the gratin to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking, which helps the sauce set and intensifies the overall taste.
- Pair this luxurious seafood dish with a crisp white wine or light salad to balance the rich, creamy elements.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness and taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 150mg