1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Sauté Shrimp:
In a skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add shrimp and cook until just pink, 2–3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3. Sauté Spinach:
In the same skillet, briefly sauté spinach until wilted. Season with a little salt and pepper.
4. Make the Cream Sauce:
Lower the heat and add heavy cream to the skillet. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the Gratin:
In the greased baking dish, layer the sautéed spinach and shrimp. Pour the cream sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over everything.
6. Bake:
Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
7. Serve:
Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately, either as a main dish or alongside a light salad or garlic bread.
Serving and Storage:
Serve hot for the best flavor and texture. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Tips:
- Use fresh, large shrimp for best texture and flavor.
- Don’t overcook shrimp; they will continue cooking in the oven.
- Substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard for variation.
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Conclusion:
Baked Shrimp and Spinach Gratin is an elegant, creamy, and cheesy dish that’s simple to prepare yet feels luxurious. It’s perfect for special occasions, weeknight dinners, or whenever you want a delicious seafood dish with minimal effort.
FAQ:
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely before cooking to avoid excess water in the gratin.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
Can I substitute the cheeses?
Yes, Gruyère, Fontina, or a mix of your favorite melting cheeses can be used.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes, this dish is low-carb and fits well into a ketogenic diet.