Oven-Baked Shrimp and Spinach Gratin

Rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy, this Oven-Baked Shrimp and Spinach Gratin is a comforting dish that’s elegant enough for guests yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Tender shrimp are baked in a luscious spinach cream sauce, topped with golden breadcrumbs and melted cheese — pure indulgence in every bite!

Ingredients

For the gratin base:

• 1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups fresh spinach (or 1½ cups frozen, thawed and drained)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for flavor depth)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the topping:

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven:
   Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish or gratin dish.
2. Cook the spinach:
   In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add spinach and cook until wilted (about 2–3 minutes). Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
3. Prepare the sauce:
   In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk to form a roux. Gradually pour in the cream while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly (about 3 minutes).
4. Add cheese and seasoning:
   Stir in Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy, then fold in the cooked spinach.
5. Assemble the gratin:
   Spread half the spinach mixture into the prepared dish. Arrange the shrimp evenly on top, then cover with the remaining sauce. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the top.
6. Prepare the topping:
   In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan. Sprinkle this mixture over the gratin.
7. Bake:
   Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
8. Serve:
   Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread, rice, or a light salad.

Pro Tips

• Don’t overbake the shrimp — they cook quickly and can become tough.
• For extra richness, mix a little cream cheese into the sauce.
• Use small or medium shrimp for better flavor distribution in each bite.
• You can prep it ahead — assemble the gratin, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.