This indulgent sandwich is a bold twist on the classic grilled cheese. It layers succulent garlic-sautéed shrimp between slices of crispy garlic butter bread, packed with melty mozzarella and sharp cheddar. The result? A golden, crunchy exterior with a rich, savory interior that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a decadent midnight snack. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers comfort and flair in every bite.
Ingredients:
For the Garlic Butter:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Pinch of salt and pepper
For the Shrimp:
- 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices of thick-cut sourdough or Italian bread
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Butter or olive oil for grilling
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. This will be your flavorful spread for the bread.
2. Cook the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season shrimp with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and chop into bite-sized pieces once cooled slightly.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches
Lay out the bread slices. Spread garlic butter generously on one side of each slice. Flip the bread so the buttered side faces down. On half the slices, layer mozzarella and cheddar cheese, followed by chopped shrimp, then another layer of cheese. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
4. Grill to Perfection
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place sandwiches in the pan and grill for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula. Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Slice each sandwich in half and serve hot. Pair with tomato soup, a crisp salad, or fries for a complete meal. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
💡 Tips & Variations:
- Cheese Swap: Try Gruyère, provolone, or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Bread Choices: Ciabatta or French bread adds extra crunch and character.
This sandwich is a celebration of textures and flavors—crispy, creamy, garlicky, and savory all at once. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even turn this into a party platter by slicing it into quarters and serving with dipping sauces like marinara or ranch.
Want a sugar-free dessert to follow this indulgence? I’ve got ideas for that too 😄.