There is something incredibly satisfying about a warm, cheesy sandwich with a delightful twist of succulent shrimp nestled inside. This Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe is a game-changer that combines creamy, melty mozzarella with perfectly sautéed shrimp, all hugged by crispy, buttery sourdough bread. It is one of those dishes that feels indulgent yet uncomplicated, ideal for a quick lunch or a comforting dinner. Every bite bursts with layers of flavor and texture that make this sandwich a true favorite you’ll want to revisit time and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each one plays an important role, balancing freshness, creaminess, and savory notes to create an unforgettable flavor profile.
- 8 oz shrimp: Peeled and deveined, shrimp provide a tender and slightly sweet seafood base that pairs beautifully with cheese.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: This melting cheese adds creamy gooeyness and mild flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly.
- 4 slices of sourdough or thick-cut bread: The sturdy bread offers the perfect crunch while holding all the fillings together.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Used for toasting, butter means that irresistible golden crust that’s crispy on the outside and soft inside.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle richness to sautéed shrimp and helps cook garlic evenly.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Garlic brings an aromatic punch that elevates the seafood flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds depth and a hint of earthiness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to enhance and balance all the flavors in the sandwich.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a burst of color and a fresh herbal note as garnish.
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat to brighten up the flavors.
How to Make Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant—this gentle aroma is the first hint of the deliciousness to come. Toss in the shrimp, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until they turn a beautiful pink and are cooked through. This quick cooking keeps the shrimp juicy and tender. When done, set them aside and get ready to assemble the sandwich.
Step 2: Assemble Your Sandwich
Take your bread slices and spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each. This buttered side will toast to a crisp, golden perfection. On the unbuttered side of one slice, generously sprinkle half the shredded mozzarella cheese—it’s the gooey layer that holds everything together. Layer on your sautéed shrimp and then add the remaining cheese on top. Cap it with the other slice of bread, butter side facing out. This construction ensures every bite is loaded with melty goodness and shrimp delight.
Step 3: Grill to Perfection
Place your sandwich on a preheated skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grill it until the bread is golden brown and crispy, which should take 3 to 4 minutes. Flip carefully and repeat on the other side, making sure the cheese melts thoroughly and the bread maintains its crunch. This step is all about patience—you want that satisfying sizzle and crisp exterior that makes the sandwich so irresistible.
Step 4: Add Finishing Touches
Once grilled, transfer your sandwich to a plate. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and, if you love a little spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes enhances the flavor beautifully. Now, slice it up, serve hot, and prepare to enjoy a meal that’s as comforting as it is flavorful.
How to Serve Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a simple, vibrant garnish that adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness to balance the richness of the sandwich. A light sprinkle of red pepper flakes is an optional way to add a mild kick of heat, enhancing the shrimp’s flavor without overpowering it.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides. A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while some crunchy pickles or a tangy coleslaw add textural contrast. For a heartier accompaniment, sweet potato fries or a bowl of tomato basil soup make for a cozy pairing that rounds out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try cutting your Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe into smaller sliders, perfect for sharing at parties or as an appetizer. You can also toast the sandwich in a panini press for grill marks and extra crunch. If you want to up the gourmet factor, drizzle a bit of garlic aioli or chipotle mayo on the side for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, wrap your sandwich tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. Leftovers will keep well for up to 2 days. To retain as much texture as possible, reheat carefully to avoid soggy bread.
Freezing
Because this sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, freezing is not ideal. However, if you must, assemble the sandwich without cooking and wrap tightly before freezing. Thaw fully in the refrigerator before grilling for the best results, though some crispness may be lost.
Reheating
To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet over low to medium heat, pressing lightly with a spatula. This method crisps the bread back up while melting the cheese gently. Avoid microwaving as it can create a soggy texture, diminishing the charm of the Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this sandwich?
Absolutely! While mozzarella melts beautifully and has a mild flavor, you can swap in cheddar, provolone, or even a bit of pepper jack if you prefer a touch of spice. Just choose something that melts well to keep the sandwich gooey.
What is the best bread for this sandwich?
Sourdough or any thick-cut rustic bread works wonders because it crisps nicely and holds up to the filling without becoming soggy. Avoid thin or soft sandwich bread for sturdiness and texture.
How spicy is the sandwich with the red pepper flakes?
The pinch of red pepper flakes adds a gentle warmth rather than intense heat. It enhances the flavors without overpowering anyone who enjoys a little kick but can be omitted if you prefer a milder sandwich.
Can I prepare the shrimp in advance?
Yes, you can cook and season the shrimp a day ahead for convenience. Just keep them refrigerated and assemble the sandwich right before grilling to ensure freshness and optimal texture.
Is this sandwich suitable for meal prep?
This Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can assemble ingredients separately and put it together when ready to eat. This way, you maintain texture and flavors without sogginess.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to elevate your sandwich game with something both simple and exciting, the Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe is a fantastic choice. It combines familiar comfort food elements with the fresh, savory flavors of shrimp and herbs. Once you try it, this sandwich will become a trusted favorite, perfect for when you want a quick meal that feels special every time. Go ahead and make it—you won’t regret a single bite!
Print
Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delicious and savory Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich featuring seasoned sautéed shrimp and melted mozzarella cheese, perfectly grilled between buttery slices of sourdough bread. This quick and easy recipe is ideal for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
For the Sandwich:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or any melting cheese)
- 4 slices of sourdough or thick-cut bread
- 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Shrimp: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then sauté until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Assemble Sandwich: Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side of one slice, evenly distribute half of the shredded cheese. Layer the sautéed shrimp on top of the cheese, then sprinkle the remaining cheese over the shrimp. Place the second slice of bread on top, with the buttered side facing outward.
- Grill Sandwich: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook until the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese starts to melt, about 3-4 minutes. Flip the sandwich carefully and grill the other side until it is also golden brown and the cheese has fully melted.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the sandwich from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful shrimp and cheese grilled sandwich.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are cooked just until pink to avoid toughness.
- Use thick-cut sourdough bread for best texture and flavor.
- Butter the outside of the bread slices to achieve a golden, crispy crust.
- Optional red pepper flakes add a subtle heat—adjust to your liking.
- Feel free to substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar or provolone.
