There are certain food combinations that just feel right. Peanut butter and jelly, tomato soup and grilled cheese. They’re classics for a reason.
But every now and then, you stumble upon a pairing that makes you wonder why it isn’t on every menu in the country. For me, that was garlic shrimp and melted cheese.
I remember the first time I made this. It was a rainy Tuesday, and I was staring into my fridge, feeling uninspired. I had some leftover shrimp, a loaf of good sourdough, and a block of cheese.
On a whim, I sautéed the shrimp with a ton of garlic, piled it onto the bread with a mountain of cheese, and grilled it in a hot, buttery pan. The result was pure magic.
The sweet, tender shrimp, the punch of garlic, and that glorious, gooey cheese pull. It was everything I love about a classic grilled cheese, but elevated into something truly special. This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s an experience.
What You’ll Need
The ingredient list is simple, which lets the key players really shine. Quality matters here, especially with the bread and shrimp.
- Shrimp: 1/2 pound, raw, peeled, and deveined. Small to medium size works best.
- Bread: 4 thick slices of sourdough or other sturdy bread.
- Cheese: 1 1/2 cups shredded. A mix of Monterey Jack and Provolone is fantastic.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons, softened.
- Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced.
- Mayonnaise: 2 tablespoons. Trust me on this.
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped.
- Lemon Juice: 1 teaspoon, fresh.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.
Tools Required
You don’t need any fancy equipment for this recipe. Just your basic kitchen essentials will do the trick.
- Large Skillet
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Spatula
- Cheese Grater
Pro Tips
I’ve made this melt more times than I can count. Along the way, I’ve picked up a few tricks that take it from good to absolutely unforgettable.
1. Dry Your Shrimp Completely.
This is the most important step for avoiding a soggy sandwich. After rinsing your shrimp, pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Water is the enemy of a crispy melt.
2. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp.
Shrimp cook incredibly fast. We’re talking 2-3 minutes. You want to cook them just until they turn pink and opaque. They’ll cook a little more inside the sandwich, so pulling them early prevents them from becoming tough and rubbery.
3. Grate Your Own Cheese.
I know the pre-shredded bags are convenient, but they contain starches to prevent caking. These same starches prevent the cheese from melting into that perfectly smooth, gooey river of deliciousness you’re dreaming of.
4. The Mayo-Butter Secret.
Spreading a thin layer of mayonnaise on the outside of the bread along with the butter is a game-changer. The oil in the mayo has a higher smoke point, which helps create an unbelievably golden, even, and crispy crust without burning.
How to Make The Perfect Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Melt
Alright, let’s get to the fun part. Follow these steps, and you’ll be in sandwich heaven in no time.
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
If your shrimp are on the larger side, give them a rough chop into bite-sized pieces. This makes the sandwich easier to eat. Pat them completely dry and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Garlic Shrimp
Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Don’t let it brown! Add the shrimp and cook, stirring, for 2-3 minutes until just pink. Remove the skillet from the heat.
Step 3: Create the Filling
Transfer the cooked shrimp and garlic to your mixing bowl. Stir in the fresh parsley and the squeeze of lemon juice. Let it cool for a minute or two.
Step 4: Assemble the Melts
Lay out your four slices of bread. Spread the softened butter and mayonnaise on one side of each slice. This is the outside of your sandwich. Flip two slices over. On the unbuttered side, pile on half the shredded cheese, then the shrimp mixture, then the remaining cheese. Top with the other two slices of bread, buttered-side-up.
Step 5: Grill to Perfection
Wipe out your skillet and place it over medium-low heat. Carefully place the sandwiches in the pan. Grill for 3-5 minutes per side, until the bread is deep golden brown and the cheese is completely melted and oozing. Press down gently with a spatula as it cooks.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Slice the melts in half and serve them while they’re hot and gooey. Prepare for compliments.
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is a great starting point. Feel free to play around with it and make it your own!
Protein Swaps
| Original | Swap Idea | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp | Lump Crab Meat | Gently fold in at the end to keep the chunks intact. |
| Shrimp | Cooked Lobster | A very luxurious and delicious alternative. |
| Shrimp | Shredded Chicken | Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option. |
Cheese Choices
The cheese blend is crucial for a great melt. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
| Cheese Type | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Gruyère | Nutty, slightly sweet, and melts beautifully. |
| Havarti | Very creamy and mild. Great for an extra gooey texture. |
| Pepper Jack | Adds a nice kick of spice to the melt. |
Other Variation Ideas:
- Add some spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic adds a nice warmth.
- Sneak in veggies: Sautéed spinach or caramelized onions are amazing additions.
- Use different herbs: Fresh dill or chives would also be delicious.
Nutrition, Pairings, and Efficiency
Let’s talk about how this sandwich fits into your life. Here’s a quick guide to nutrition, what to serve it with, and how to make it faster.
Estimated Nutritional Breakdown
Note: This is an approximation per sandwich and can vary based on your specific ingredients.
- Calories: ~650 kcal
- Protein: ~35g
- Fat: ~38g
- Carbohydrates: ~40g
Ingredient Swaps for Different Diets
| Diet | Recommended Swap |
|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | Use your favorite sturdy gluten-free bread. |
| Low-Carb / Keto | Use keto-friendly bread or serve the filling in a lettuce cup. |
| Dairy-Free | Use dairy-free cheese shreds and a plant-based butter. |
Meal Pairing Suggestions
This melt is pretty hearty on its own, but it loves company. A simple, acidic side cuts through the richness beautifully.
- A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
- A cup of creamy tomato soup.
- A side of crispy sweet potato fries.
Cooking Time Efficiency Tips
Want to get this on the table even faster? Mince your garlic, chop your parsley, and grate your cheese ahead of time. You can store them in airtight containers in the fridge for a day or two. This makes assembly a breeze.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
Make Ahead: You can prepare the garlic shrimp filling up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. I don’t recommend assembling the full sandwich until you’re ready to cook, as the bread can get soggy.
Leftovers and Storage: If you have leftover sandwiches, wrap them tightly in foil and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. The microwave will make them soggy, so reheating is key.
Best Way to Reheat: Place the foil-wrapped sandwich in a 350°F (175°C) oven or air fryer for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Unwrap it for the last couple of minutes to re-crisp the bread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I use pre-cooked frozen shrimp?
Ans: You can, but the texture is much better with raw shrimp. If you use pre-cooked, just warm it gently with the garlic for a minute. Do not cook it again, or it will be very tough.
Q2. What is the absolute best bread for this melt?
Ans: A high-quality, thick-cut sourdough is my top choice. Its tangy flavor complements the rich filling, and its sturdy structure holds everything together without falling apart.
Q3. My sandwich came out greasy. What happened?
Ans: This can happen if you use too much butter or if your pan heat is too low. The bread will absorb the fat instead of crisping up. Use medium-low heat and just enough butter/mayo to coat the bread.
Q4. Can I make this in an air fryer?
Ans: Absolutely! Assemble the sandwich as directed. Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (188°C). Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Wrapping Up
This Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Melt is more than just a recipe; it’s a statement. It’s proof that a few simple, high-quality ingredients can create something truly spectacular.
It’s the perfect indulgent lunch, easy weeknight dinner, or cure for a dreary day. The combination of textures and flavors is just so satisfying.
Now it’s your turn. Give this recipe a try and see for yourself. I’d love to hear how it goes! Drop a comment below with your experience, any variations you tried, or any questions you might have.
