Prepare to elevate your sandwich game with this incredible Shrimp Grilled Cheese! This isn’t your ordinary cheese sandwich—it’s a delightful fusion that combines the comfort of melty cheese with the luxury of succulent shrimp. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a special weekend treat.
I created this recipe on a night when I couldn’t decide between seafood or comfort food. Why choose when you can have both? The sweet, tender shrimp pairs beautifully with the rich, gooey cheese, all encased in crispy, buttery bread that makes every bite pure bliss.
Why You’ll Love This
- Ready in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
- Combines comfort food with a touch of sophistication
- Crispy exterior with a gooey, cheesy center and juicy shrimp
- Easily customizable with different cheeses or seasonings
- Impressive enough for guests but simple enough for a family meal
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 6 oz cooked cocktail shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 cup grated Gruyere cheese
- 3/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 slices sourdough bread
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in lemon zest and cook for another minute.
- Add the cooked shrimp to the garlic butter mixture and cook just until heated through, about 2 minutes. Don't overcook or the shrimp will become tough.
- Transfer shrimp mixture to a bowl and drizzle with lemon juice. Let cool while you grate the cheeses. This prevents the cheese from melting prematurely.
- Stir the grated Gruyere, mozzarella, and black pepper into the cooled shrimp mixture until well combined.
- Spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the butter and lightly press down so it sticks to create a crispy, flavorful crust.
- Place two slices butter-side down and top each with half of the shrimp and cheese mixture. Top with remaining bread slices, butter-side up.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes. Place sandwiches in basket and cook 3 minutes, flip, then cook 2 more minutes until golden and cheese is melted.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook sandwiches until bottom is golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Flip and cook until second side is golden and cheese is fully melted.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 1-2 minutes before cutting. Serve immediately while the cheese is still gooey and the bread is crispy.
Tips & Variations
- Try adding a thin layer of garlic aioli or sriracha mayo for an extra flavor kick
- Substitute gruyère or fontina cheese for a more sophisticated flavor profile
- Add sliced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats
- For a lighter version, use whole grain bread and reduce the amount of cheese
- Make it spicier by adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce
- Prep the shrimp mixture ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours for quicker assembly
Serving Suggestions
Serve these indulgent shrimp grilled cheese sandwiches with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A cup of tomato soup also makes the perfect companion for dipping, creating that classic soup and sandwich combo with an upscale twist.
For a more substantial meal, pair with sweet potato fries or a small bowl of coleslaw. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer complements the flavors beautifully if you’re serving this for a casual dinner with friends.
Notes
- Store any leftover shrimp mixture separately from bread for up to 2 days in the refrigerator
- For the crispiest exterior, make sure your pan is properly heated before adding the sandwiches
- Pat shrimp completely dry before cooking to ensure they sear rather than steam
- If the cheese isn’t melting quickly enough, cover the pan with a lid for 30 seconds
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking. Pre-cooked frozen shrimp works too, but skip the initial cooking step and just warm them through.
How do I prevent my sandwich from getting soggy?
Make sure the shrimp are well-drained after cooking, and let them cool slightly before mixing with the cheese. This prevents excess moisture from making your bread soggy.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the shrimp and cheese mixture up to a day ahead, but assemble and grill the sandwiches just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What’s the best bread to use?
Sourdough is excellent for its flavor and sturdiness, but any thick-sliced bread that can hold up to the filling works well. Brioche adds a touch of sweetness that complements the shrimp beautifully.
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