Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin: A Cheesy Seafood Sensation Recipe
Introduction
This Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin is a rich and cheesy seafood dish that’s perfect for low-carb dining. Succulent shrimp bathed in a creamy garlic sauce, topped with a crispy parmesan and pork rind crust, makes this an irresistible dinner option.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds large shrimp peeled, deveined, tails removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese divided
- 1 cup shredded monterey jack cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed pork rind crumbs
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then sear for 1–2 minutes per side until just pink. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic, basil, and nutmeg. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4: Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in 1/2 cup parmesan and all the monterey jack cheese until smooth. Season to taste.
- Step 5: Place shrimp in the prepared baking dish. Pour the cream sauce evenly over the shrimp.
- Step 6: In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/2 cup parmesan with crushed pork rind crumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the dish.
- Step 7: Bake for 25 minutes until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling.
Tips & Variations
- For added flavor, toss the shrimp in a little smoked paprika before searing.
- Swap basil for fresh thyme or parsley to change the herb profile.
- Use smoked gouda or cheddar cheese for a different cheesy twist.
- If you prefer, replace pork rind crumbs with crushed almonds or seasoned keto breadcrumbs.
Storage
Store leftover shrimp au gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through to keep the sauce creamy and avoid overcooking the shrimp.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Is this dish suitable for those on a keto diet?
Absolutely. This recipe uses low-carb ingredients like heavy cream, cheeses, and pork rind crumbs, making it perfect for keto-friendly meals.
PrintKeto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin: A Cheesy Seafood Sensation Recipe
Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin is a rich and cheesy seafood dish featuring succulent seared shrimp baked in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce topped with a crispy pork rind crust. This low-carb, keto-friendly recipe combines the flavors of garlic, fresh basil, nutmeg, and melty cheeses for a decadent and satisfying meal perfect for seafood lovers following a ketogenic lifestyle.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasonings
- 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Topping
- 1/2 cup crushed pork rind crumbs
- Remaining 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Sear Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then sear each side for 1 to 2 minutes until just pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking later.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, chopped basil, and ground nutmeg, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make Cream Sauce: Pour the heavy whipping cream into the skillet and allow it to simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in half of the parmesan cheese (1/2 cup) along with the shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble Dish: Arrange the seared shrimp evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the rich cream sauce over the shrimp, ensuring all pieces are covered with the cheesy mixture.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese with the crushed pork rind crumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the shrimp and sauce to create a crispy, flavorful crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh shrimp and be careful not to overcook during searing to maintain a tender texture.
- Crushed pork rinds provide a low-carb breadcrumb substitute perfect for keto diets; you can also add herbs such as parsley to the topping for extra flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently in the oven.
- This dish pairs well with steamed or roasted low-carb vegetables for a complete keto-friendly meal.
Keywords: keto garlic shrimp, shrimp au gratin, keto seafood recipe, low carb shrimp, cheesy shrimp bake, keto dinner
