Heavenly Creamy Shrimp

Heavenly Creamy Shrimp & Scallop Gratin — The Seafood Comfort Dish You’ll Crave Again and Again

When it comes to comfort food, very few dishes deliver pure indulgence like a Creamy Shrimp & Scallop Gratin. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp and melt-in-your-mouth scallops nestled in a luxurious garlic cream sauce, crowned with a golden, bubbling cheese crust. This dish is irresistibly rich without being heavy, elegant yet incredibly simple, and perfect for both a cozy night in or a show-stopping dinner for guests.

The image above (/mnt/data/D54DFC28-5CF3-4FD5-9DD1-EE3FB530C20A.jpeg) captures everything that makes this gratin unforgettable: creamy sauce, perfectly baked seafood, hints of herbs, and a beautifully browned top. The flavor is comforting, indulgent, and deeply satisfying—exactly what a gratin should be.

This recipe transforms fresh seafood into a restaurant-quality dish that feels gourmet but comes together effortlessly in one baking dish. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply craving a crowd-pleasing meal, this gratin is guaranteed to become one of your most requested recipes.

⭐ 

Ingredients & Their Essential Roles

For the Seafood

• Shrimp (large) – Adds sweet, juicy, tender bites that absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Scallops – Deliver a buttery texture and luxurious flavor, making the dish taste gourmet.

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce

• Butter – Forms the base of the sauce, adding richness and helping sauté the garlic.
• Garlic (freshly minced) – Infuses the gratin with aromatic depth and savory warmth.
• All-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce into a velvety consistency that clings perfectly to the seafood.
• Heavy cream – Creates the luxurious, silky texture that defines a classic gratin.
• Milk – Lightens the sauce slightly to balance richness.
• Salt & black pepper – Enhances natural flavors without overpowering the delicate seafood.
• Lemon zest – Brightens the dish and prevents the cream from feeling too heavy.

Herbs & Flavor Boosters

• Fresh parsley – Adds herbal freshness to balance the creaminess.
• Paprika – Adds subtle flavor and helps the top brown beautifully.

For the Golden Cheese Crust

• Mozzarella – Melts smoothly, giving that irresistible cheese pull.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds sharpness, saltiness, and the perfect golden top.
• Breadcrumbs (optional) – Create a crisp surface and contrast with the soft seafood.

🔥 

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Seafood

1. Pat shrimp and scallops dry to ensure even browning.
2. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and a touch of lemon zest.

2. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Whisk in the flour to create a roux; cook for 1 minute.
4. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk, whisking continuously.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and optional paprika.
6. Simmer over low heat until thickened and velvety.

3. Assemble the Gratin

1. Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
2. Arrange the shrimp and scallops evenly.
3. Pour the remaining sauce over the seafood.
4. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella, parmesan, and breadcrumbs.

4. Bake to Perfection

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and golden.
3. Broil for 1–2 minutes if you want a deeper caramelized color.

5. Serve Hot

Let the gratin rest for 5 minutes so the sauce thickens beautifully before serving.

❤️ 

Why This Recipe Is So Loved

• Restaurant-quality results at home
  The combination of scallops, shrimp, and creamy cheese tastes gourmet without complicated steps.
• Rich but perfectly balanced
  The lemon zest and herbs brighten the dish, keeping it indulgent but never heavy.
• One dish, minimal cleanup
  It’s easy, fuss-free, and impressive every single time.
• Naturally comforting
  Creamy, cheesy, warm—everything you want in the perfect cozy meal.

💡 

Pro Tips for the Perfect Gratin

• Dry the seafood well to prevent excess moisture in the sauce.
• Under-season slightly at first—the cheese adds saltiness as it melts.
• Do not overcook the seafood; it becomes rubbery. Baking just until opaque is key.
• Use fresh parmesan, not pre-shredded, for a beautifully crisp and flavorful top.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream if you want a more classic French profile.

🍽 

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Creamy Shrimp & Scallop Gratin with:

• Crusty French bread for dipping into the sauce
• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Steamed asparagus or green beans for freshness
• A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Rice pilaf or herbed couscous to soak up the creamy goodness

This gratin also makes an incredible main course for a special dinner or celebration.

✨ 

Conclusion — A Simple Yet Luxurious Dish You’ll Make Again and Again

This Creamy Shrimp & Scallop Gratin proves that impressive meals don’t have to be complicated. With its indulgently creamy garlic sauce, tender seafood, and golden cheese topping, it is the kind of dish that turns ordinary evenings into memorable moments. Easy enough for beginners, elegant enough for entertaining, and guaranteed to be loved by anyone who tastes it—this gratin deserves a permanent place in your recipe collection.

If you want a delicious, show-stopping, and incredibly simple seafood dinner, this recipe is exactly what you’ve been searching for.

Would you like a printable recipe card or a version optimized for social media?