Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Toast

This Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese takes the classic grilled cheese sandwich to a whole new level. The combination of buttery, garlicky bread with juicy shrimp and gooey, melted cheese offers a satisfying and flavorful meal perfect for any time of day. Crispy on the outside and soft and cheesy on the inside, it’s a comforting dish that never fails to please.

I first made this sandwich when craving something special but easy to prepare and it quickly became one of my favorites to recreate whenever I want a cozy, indulgent treat.

Ingredients

• Four tablespoons unsalted butter softened for spreading: this is the base for the garlic butter and makes the bread perfectly rich
• Two cloves garlic minced for bold flavor: fresh garlic is essential for that vibrant garlic punch
• One tablespoon fresh parsley: chopped to brighten the butter with a subtle herbal note
• Half a teaspoon salt: to enhance and balance the flavors
• Eight slices of thickcut bread such as sourdough or Texas toast: sturdy slices hold up best to the fillings without becoming soggy
• One cup cooked shrimp chopped: adds juicy, savory seafood flavor use fresh or thawed precooked shrimp
• One cup shredded mozzarella cheese: for meltiness and stretch
• Half a cup grated Parmesan cheese: to add salty, nutty depth
• Half teaspoon red pepper flakes: optional for a gentle heat kick if you like some spice
• One tablespoon olive oil: for cooking the shrimp to keep them tender and flavorful

Instructions

Make the Garlic Butter:

In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. Stir until the ingredients are evenly mixed, creating a fragrant garlic butter spread to slather on the bread. Setting this aside will allow the flavors to meld while you prep the other ingredients.

Cook the Shrimp:

Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped shrimp and cook just until warmed through, about two to three minutes. Since the shrimp are precooked, avoid overcooking to keep them tender. Remove from heat and set aside.

Assemble the Sandwiches:

Take each bread slice and spread a generous layer of the garlic butter on one side. On the unbuttered side, layer mozzarella cheese evenly, followed by the warmed shrimp and then a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Add red pepper flakes if using. Top with another slice of bread, ensuring the buttered side is facing outward for that crispy golden exterior.

Grill to Perfection:

Heat a skillet or griddle over mediumlow heat. Place the prepared sandwiches on the skillet and cook for three to four minutes on each side or until the bread turns a rich golden brown and becomes crispy. Use a spatula to gently press down to help the cheese melt evenly inside. Be patient and keep the heat moderate to avoid burning the bread while giving the cheese time to melt fully.

Serve and Enjoy:

Remove the sandwiches from the heat and let them rest for a minute or two before slicing. This gives the cheese a chance to set slightly, preventing it from spilling out too much when cut. For a classic touch, serve with marinara sauce for dipping or a warm tomato soup to soak up every cheesy bite.

My favorite ingredient in this sandwich is the garlic butter. The balance of butter, garlic, and parsley warms up the entire sandwich and makes each bite feel indulgent. I remember making this for a casual dinner with friends and everyone was surprised how something so simple could taste so rich and satisfying. It quickly became a regular request whenever I hosted.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat rather than a microwave to keep the bread crispy and the cheese perfectly melted. Avoid freezing leftovers as the texture of the bread and shrimp does not hold up well after thawing.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer, swap mozzarella for a blend of cheddar or provolone for a sharper flavor profile. You can also use cooked lobster or crab meat in place of shrimp for a different seafood twist. For a dairy-free version use vegan butter and cheese alternatives, keeping the garlic and herbs plentiful to maintain flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This sandwich pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon vinaigrette. Garlic Parmesan fries elevate the indulgence if you want a hearty side. Or dip the sandwich in classic tomato soup to create a nostalgic comfort meal perfect for chilly evenings.

This cheesy garlic bread shrimp grilled cheese is quick, indulgent, and perfect for any meal. Serve with marinara or tomato soup for extra comfort.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?

Yes, thaw frozen shrimp completely, pat dry, and warm them briefly in olive oil before assembling to maintain texture and flavor.

→ What cheeses work best together here?

Mozzarella offers great meltiness, while Parmesan adds a nutty depth; you can also mix in provolone or gouda for added richness.

→ Is this dish suitable for cooking using an air fryer?

Absolutely, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway to achieve a crispy, melty finish.

→ How do I ensure the bread stays crispy and cheese melts perfectly?

Cook on medium-low heat and press gently with a spatula; this allows cheese to melt evenly without burning the bread.

→ Can I prepare the garlic butter ahead of time?

Yes, mix butter, garlic, parsley, and salt in advance and refrigerate; bring to room temperature before spreading for best flavor.