Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled cheese

A Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese? Yes, please! This dish is a mouthwatering fusion of two comfort food classics: the irresistible shrimp and cheesy garlic bread, combined into a grilled cheese sandwich. Imagine buttery, crispy garlic bread stuffed with gooey cheese, succulent shrimp, and extra flavor.

Here’s how to make it!

Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese

Ingredients:

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (or smoked paprika for extra depth)

• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

For the Garlic Bread:

• 8 slices thick-cut bread (sourdough, French bread, or any bread of choice)

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Grilled Cheese:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or any melty cheese like cheddar, fontina, or Gruyère)

• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated (for extra cheesiness)

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for grilling)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp

1. Season the Shrimp:

   • In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to marinate.

2. Cook the Shrimp:

   • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re opaque and cooked through. Once done, drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Bread

3. Prepare the Garlic Butter:

   • In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, dried oregano (if using), salt, and black pepper.

4. Spread on Bread:

   • Spread a generous amount of the garlic butter mixture on one side of each slice of bread. You want it to be well-covered so the garlic flavor really comes through.

5. Toast the Bread:

   • Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the slices of bread (buttered side down) onto the skillet and toast until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. This will be your “garlic bread.”

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

6. Layer with Cheese:

   • Once the garlic bread is ready, flip the slices over so the unbuttered sides are facing up. On one slice, layer the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated parmesan cheese. You can add some more herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning at this point if you’d like.

7. Add the Shrimp:

   • Place the cooked shrimp on top of the cheese layer, spreading them out evenly across the bread.

8. Top with More Cheese:

   • Add a little more cheese over the shrimp to help “seal” the sandwich. Now place the other slice of garlic bread on top, buttered side up.

Step 4: Grill the Sandwich

9. Grill the Sandwich:

   • Heat a small amount of butter in a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the sandwich in the pan. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and gooey inside.

10. Serve:

    • Once the sandwich is perfectly toasted and the cheese has melted, remove it from the pan and slice it in half.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

11. Garnish:

    • Optionally, sprinkle some extra fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.

    • Serve immediately with a side of marinara sauce or ranch for dipping, if desired.

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Tips for the Best Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese:

• Bread Choice: A thick-cut bread like sourdough or French bread holds up well to the shrimp and cheese. You could even try a garlic baguette for an extra crunchy texture.

• Shrimp Variations: If you prefer, you can use cooked shrimp or even lobster tail meat instead of shrimp for a more luxurious version.

• Cheese Combo: Mozzarella is classic, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, cheddar, or even a mix of cream cheese and mozzarella for extra creaminess.

This Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese is a decadent fusion of shrimp, garlic butter, and melted cheese that will elevate your sandwich game to new heights. Perfect for a fun dinner or a treat to impress your friends! Would you like any extra sides to go with it, or maybe a dip suggestion?