Shrimp Grilled Gourmet Cheese
A decadent twist on the classic grilled cheese, featuring plump garlic shrimp, three premium cheeses, and artisan bread for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
For the Shrimp:
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12 large shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails removed)
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2 tbsp butter
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2 garlic cloves (minced)
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika
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1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
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1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Sandwich:
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4 slices thick-cut artisan bread (sourdough or brioche recommended)
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1/4 cup gruyère cheese (shredded)
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1/4 cup fontina cheese (shredded)
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1/4 cup sharp white cheddar (shredded)
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2 tbsp garlic herb butter (recipe below)
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1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Garlic Herb Butter:
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3 tbsp softened butter
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1 minced garlic clove
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1/2 tsp dried oregano
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1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
Mix all garlic herb butter ingredients in a small bowl. Set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
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Melt butter in skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add shrimp, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook 2 minutes per side.
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Deglaze with lemon juice, then remove from heat.
3. Build the Sandwiches:
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Spread garlic herb butter on one side of each bread slice.
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On unbuttered sides, layer:
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1/2 cheese mixture
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6 shrimp per sandwich
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Remaining cheese
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Top with second bread slice (buttered side out).
4. Grill to Perfection:
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Heat cast iron skillet over medium-low heat.
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Cook sandwiches 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until golden brown and cheese melts.
5. Serve:
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Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
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Serve with lemon aioli (mix 2 tbsp mayo + 1 tsp lemon zest) for dipping.
Chef’s Notes
✔ Key Technique: Low-and-slow cooking ensures melted cheese without burning the bread.
✔ Make Ahead: Shrimp can be cooked 1 day in advance.
✔ Next-Level Upgrade: Add thin apple slices or caramelized onions for sweetness.
Wine Pairing:
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Chardonnay (buttery) or Sauvignon Blanc (crisp)
This gourmet grilled cheese transforms weeknight dinners into special occasions with its perfect balance of crispy, creamy, and succulent flavors. The trio of cheeses creates an ultra-gooey texture, while the garlicky shrimp adds luxurious flair to this childhood favorite.
Pro Tip: For extra crunch, brush the outside with mayonnaise before grilling!
