Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese Recipe

This Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese is the ultimate indulgence, combining buttery garlic bread with succulent shrimp and ooey-gooey melted cheese. It’s the perfect fusion of garlic bread and grilled cheese, with the added bonus of tender shrimp for a seafood twist. This decadent sandwich is ideal for lunch, dinner, or even a special weekend treat.

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Key Ingredients and Why They Matter

Shrimp

Shrimp adds a protein-packed, juicy element to the grilled cheese, providing a savory contrast to the rich, cheesy filling.

• Pro Tip: Use medium or large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Sauté them until just cooked through to avoid overcooking and rubbery texture.

Garlic Butter

The garlic butter spread gives the bread a crispy, golden crust while infusing every bite with garlicky goodness. It’s what makes this grilled cheese stand out from the rest.

• Substitution Tip: For a dairy-free option, use olive oil infused with garlic instead of butter.

Cheese

A combination of mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese ensures a perfect melt and a balance of flavors. Mozzarella provides stretchiness, while cheddar adds a sharp, rich flavor.

• Substitution Tip: You can use gruyere, provolone, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.

Bread

Sourdough or French bread is perfect for this sandwich, as it holds up well to the garlic butter and cheesy filling without becoming too soggy.

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How to Make Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, mix together:

• 1/4 cup softened butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1/2 lb shrimp, seasoned with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. Sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

• Pro Tip: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. They should be just opaque and tender when done.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on one side of 4 slices of bread. On the unbuttered side, layer mozzarella and cheddar cheese (about 1/2 cup each per sandwich). Top with a few sautéed shrimp, and then place another slice of cheese on top. Close the sandwich with another slice of garlic-buttered bread, butter-side facing out.

• Pro Tip: For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese on the buttered side of the bread for extra crunch and flavor.

Step 4: Grill the Sandwich

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grill each sandwich for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese is fully melted.

• Tip: If the bread is browning too quickly, reduce the heat to prevent burning while allowing the cheese to melt.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for a minute before slicing. Serve hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or a fresh green salad for balance.

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Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or a bowl of tomato soup. You can also serve it with fries or potato wedges for a more indulgent meal.

For an extra kick, drizzle with hot sauce or serve with a side of garlic aioli.

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Variations and Add-Ins

Spicy Shrimp Grilled Cheese

Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the shrimp before cooking for a spicy version of this sandwich. You can also use pepper jack cheese for a spicier, more flavorful melt.

Pesto Shrimp Grilled Cheese

For a fresh, herby twist, spread basil pesto on the inside of the bread before adding the cheese and shrimp. The pesto adds a vibrant, savory flavor that complements the garlic and shrimp.

Vegetarian Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese

Skip the shrimp and add sliced tomatoes or spinach for a delicious vegetarian version. You can also substitute with mushrooms or zucchini for extra texture and flavor.

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Dietary Adaptations

This Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese can be adapted for various dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free bread to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Replace the cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives, and use olive oil or vegan butter for the garlic butter spread.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best to enjoy this sandwich fresh off the skillet for the crispiest bread and meltiest cheese. However, you can prepare the garlic butter and sauté the shrimp ahead of time for faster assembly.

What’s the best cheese for grilled cheese?
For a perfectly melty grilled cheese, use a combination of mozzarella for stretchiness and sharp cheddar for flavor. Other good options include gruyere, provolone, or Monterey Jack.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to restore the crispy texture, or pop them in a toaster oven.

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