Ingredients:
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2 slices thick-cut bread (sourdough, brioche, or any bread of choice)
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1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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6-8 large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cooked (you can use pre-cooked shrimp or cook them yourself)
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2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
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1 tbsp olive oil
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2-3 cloves garlic, minced
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1/4 tsp garlic powder
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1/4 tsp onion powder
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1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra cheesy goodness)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Lemon wedges (for serving)
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Hot sauce (optional for a spicy kick)
Instructions:
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Prepare the shrimp:
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If your shrimp is not cooked, heat a bit of olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
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Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re opaque and cooked through. Set them aside and chop into smaller pieces if desired.
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Make the garlic butter:
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In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped parsley (if using). Mix until smooth.
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Prepare the bread:
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Spread the garlic butter mixture generously on one side of each slice of bread. Sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese on top of the buttered sides for extra flavor if desired.
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Assemble the grilled cheese:
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Place one slice of bread (buttered side down) on a clean surface. On top of the unbuttered side, layer the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
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Add the chopped shrimp evenly on top of the cheese layer.
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Place the second slice of bread on top, buttered side up.
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Grill the sandwich:
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Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese has melted inside.
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Press gently with a spatula to ensure the cheese melts evenly.
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Serve:
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Once the sandwich is crispy and golden, remove it from the skillet. Let it cool for a minute, then slice it in half.
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Serve with lemon wedges and, if desired, drizzle with hot sauce or a sprinkle of more fresh parsley.
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Tips:
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Shrimp alternatives: You can substitute the shrimp with other seafood like lobster, crab, or scallops, or even go for grilled chicken if you prefer.
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Bread choice: Choose a hearty, slightly thick bread to hold up the filling without becoming soggy. Sourdough or brioche adds a nice touch of flavor.
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Cheese variety: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like provolone, gouda, or fontina for added richness.
This Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese is perfect for a cozy meal, lunch, or dinner. The combination of creamy, melty cheese with garlicky shrimp and crispy bread is next-level delicious. Let me know how it turns out or if you’d like more variations!