Name: Ultimate Shrimp Grilled Cheese with Garlic Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 slices thick bread (like sourdough or artisan bread); 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tbsp butter, melted; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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When I’m craving something indulgent, savory, and totally satisfying, this Ultimate Shrimp Grilled Cheese with Garlic Bread hits the spot. It’s everything I love about grilled cheese—crispy, buttery bread and gooey melted cheese—taken up a notch with garlicky shrimp and a rich blend of mozzarella and Parmesan. Every bite is golden, melty, and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this sandwich combines the comfort of grilled cheese with the luxury of shrimp scampi. It’s quick enough to make for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests. The garlic butter on the bread adds a punch of flavor, and the two cheeses melt perfectly around the tender shrimp. It’s rich, cheesy, and totally unforgettable.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 slices thick bread (sourdough or any sturdy bread I prefer)
1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tbsp butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions

I start by heating a pan over medium-high heat. I season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then sauté them in melted butter with minced garlic for 3–4 minutes, until they turn pink. I set the shrimp aside.
I brush each slice of bread with the remaining melted butter and sprinkle on a bit of minced garlic for that garlic bread flavor.
On two slices of bread, I layer the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly.
I top the cheese with the sautéed shrimp and cover with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side out.
Using the same pan, I grill the sandwiches over medium heat, pressing gently with a spatula. I cook each side for about 4–5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
I remove them from the pan, garnish with fresh chopped parsley if I have it, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 hearty sandwiches (2 servings). It takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cook time—so I can have this meal on the table in 20 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add a slice of tomato or spinach for extra freshness.
For a spicy version, I toss the shrimp in a bit of cayenne or red pepper flakes before cooking.
I’ve also tried it with a smear of garlic aioli inside the sandwich for an extra punch of flavor.
If I’m out of mozzarella, provolone or Monterey Jack work great too.

storage/reheating

While these sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, I sometimes store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I warm them in a skillet over low heat until the cheese is melty and the bread is crisp again. I avoid the microwave—it tends to make the bread soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, I thaw frozen shrimp completely before cooking. I pat them dry to prevent excess moisture in the sandwich.

What kind of bread works best?

I like using sourdough or a thick-cut artisan bread—it holds up well to the butter and fillings without getting soggy.

Can I add more cheese?

Absolutely. I’ve added extra mozzarella for extra melt or even a slice of cream cheese for a richer taste.

Can I make this sandwich without garlic?

Yes, but the garlic really enhances the flavor. If I’m sensitive to garlic, I use just a small pinch or garlic-infused oil instead.

What sides go well with this sandwich?

I like serving it with tomato soup, a green salad, or crispy fries to round out the meal.

Conclusion

This Ultimate Shrimp Grilled Cheese with Garlic Bread is one of those recipes I turn to when I want big flavor with minimal effort. It’s crispy, cheesy, and packed with buttery shrimp goodness. Whether I’m making it for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, it always feels like a gourmet treat—without the fuss.