Juicy shrimp and tender spinach are baked in a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, then topped with bubbling mozzarella for the ultimate comforting seafood dish. Serve it with toasted bread, pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

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Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups (60g) fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• ½ cup (120ml) whole milk
• 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Topping

• 1 cup (110g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.

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Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the spinach and cook until just wilted.
4. Add the heavy cream, milk, and cream cheese.
5. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted.
6. Mix in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
7. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

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Step 3: Assemble

1. Transfer the creamy spinach sauce to a lightly greased baking dish or individual ramekins.
2. Arrange the seasoned shrimp evenly over the sauce.
3. Sprinkle with mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan.

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Step 4: Bake

Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

For a golden top, broil for 2 minutes at the end.

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Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients used.

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Tips for Success

• Pat the shrimp dry before seasoning so they sear and bake evenly.
• Avoid overcooking the shrimp—they’re done as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, richest sauce.
• Let the gratin rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

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Variations

Mushroom Shrimp Gratin

Add 1 cup sliced mushrooms and sauté them with the garlic.

Crab & Shrimp Gratin

Mix in ½ cup lump crab meat for an extra-special seafood dish.

Spicy Version

Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne.

Low-Carb Version

Serve over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or steamed broccoli.

Chicken & Spinach Gratin

Replace the shrimp with cooked, diced chicken breast.

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Serving Suggestions

• Garlic bread
• Toasted baguette
• Buttered pasta
• Steamed rice
• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted asparagus
• Caesar salad
• Steamed broccoli

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Storage

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate after thawing.

Reheating

• Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

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Nut Information

Contains Peanuts? ❌ No

Contains Tree Nuts? ❌ No

Nut-Free Recipe: ✅ Yes

Allergy Note: This recipe is naturally nut-free. Check packaged ingredients such as cheeses, cream cheese, and seasonings for allergen statements and possible cross-contamination if preparing for someone with severe nut allergies.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and baking.

2. Can I substitute the spinach?

Yes. Kale, Swiss chard, or chopped broccoli can be used instead.

3. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the gratin up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

4. What cheese melts best for the topping?

Mozzarella gives the best stretch, while Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or provolone also melt beautifully.

5. Can I make this without heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk, though the sauce will be less rich.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. All the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always verify packaged products if needed.

7. Can I add pasta directly to the gratin?

Yes. Stir 2 cups of cooked pasta into the sauce before baking to turn it into a complete one-dish meal.