A decadent grilled cheese sandwich that combines the savory flavors of garlic bread, succulent shrimp, and melty cheese. Perfect for a quick and indulgent meal.
Ingredients:
- For the Garlic Bread:
- 4 slices of thick-cut bread (sourdough, Italian, or brioche work well)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Pinch of salt and pepper
- For the Shrimp Filling:
- 8-10 medium cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- salt and pepper to taste.
- For the Grilled Cheese:
- 4 slices of your favorite melting cheese (mozzarella, Monterey Jack, cheddar, provolone, or a blend)
- 1 tablespoon butter, for grilling.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Garlic Bread:
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on one side of each bread slice.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- If shrimp is not already cooked, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
- Roughly chop the cooked shrimp into smaller pieces.
- Assemble the Grilled Cheese:
- Lay two slices of bread, garlic butter-side down, on a clean surface.
- Evenly distribute half of the chopped shrimp over each slice of bread.
- Top the shrimp with two slices of cheese on each sandwich.
- Place the remaining two slices of bread, garlic butter-side up, on top of the cheese.
- Grill the Sandwiches:
- Heat the tablespoon of butter in a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
- Carefully place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet.
- Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
- If needed, you can cover the skillet with a lid for the last minute of cooking to help the cheese melt completely.
- Serve:
- Remove the grilled cheese sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool slightly.
- Slice in half and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on the garlic butter before grilling.
- Add some sautéed onions or bell peppers to the shrimp filling.
- Use a seafood seasoning blend on the shrimp.
- A squeeze of lemon juice over the shrimp before assembling the sandwich will add a bright flavor.
- For a spicy kick, add a few drops of hot sauce to the shrimp or use pepper jack cheese.
- If you have an airfryer, you can airfry the sandwiches. Spray the outside of the bread with olive oil, and airfry at 375 degrees F for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Serve with a side of marinara sauce or a creamy dipping sauce.
Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese!