Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin

If you’re looking for a low-carb dinner that feels indulgent without breaking your diet, this Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin is the answer. Bursting with garlicky flavor, tender shrimp, and a creamy cheese sauce, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. In just under 40 minutes, you can serve a dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare, all while keeping it keto-friendly.

This recipe combines succulent shrimp with a rich blend of cheeses, garlic, and spices, baked until golden and bubbly. The creamy sauce clings to every piece of shrimp, creating a comforting yet elegant meal. It’s ideal for anyone on a low-carb or keto diet who still wants something flavorful and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to adapt with your favorite cheeses or add some veggies for extra texture.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin makes a show-stopping centerpiece with minimal effort. With a balance of garlic, cream, and cheesy goodness, it’s a decadent dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 4

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What Makes This Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin Special?

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.

• Keto-Friendly: Low-carb, high-fat, and packed with protein, ideal for keto and low-carb diets.

• Rich and Creamy: The blend of cream and cheese creates a velvety sauce that coats every shrimp.

• Full of Flavor: Roasted garlic and a hint of spices elevate the shrimp’s natural sweetness.

• Minimal Prep, Maximum Impact: Only a few ingredients, yet it feels gourmet. Tip: use pre-peeled shrimp to save time.

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Ingredient Notes

• Shrimp: Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp works best. Medium to large sizes hold up well during baking. Can substitute with scallops or chicken for variation.

• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides the best flavor; roasted garlic can add a deeper, sweeter profile.

• Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess without extra carbs. You can substitute with mascarpone or full-fat cream.

• Heavy Cream: Essential for keto-friendly sauce; half-and-half can be used if desired.

• Cheese: Gruyère or cheddar melts beautifully. A mix of mozzarella and Parmesan adds flavor and browning.

• Butter: Enhances richness. Ghee works as a dairy-free option.

• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, and a touch of cayenne enhance flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add freshness at the end.

• Special Equipment: Oven-safe baking dish (8×8 inches works well) and sauté pan for shrimp.

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How To Make Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your baking dish with butter.

2. Sauté the shrimp: In a medium pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add shrimp and cook until just pink (2-3 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

   • Tip: Don’t overcook shrimp; it will bake further in the oven.

3. Prepare the sauce: In the same pan, add 4 oz cream cheese and ½ cup heavy cream. Stir over low heat until smooth. Add ½ cup grated cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until sauce thickens slightly.

   • Tip: Stir constantly to prevent burning.

4. Assemble the dish: Pour sauce into the greased baking dish. Arrange shrimp evenly on top. Sprinkle ½ cup more cheese and a pinch of paprika over the top.

5. Bake: Place in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is golden and bubbly.

   • Look for: Bubbly edges, lightly browned cheese, and shrimp cooked through.

6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives before serving. Enjoy warm with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad.

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Storage Options

• Room Temperature: Not recommended for shrimp; serve immediately for best taste.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

• Freezing: Shrimp au gratin can be frozen before baking. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10-15 extra minutes.

• Reheating Tips: Reheat in a 350°F oven until warm and bubbly. Avoid microwave for best texture.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar with Gruyère, mozzarella, or Swiss for different flavors.

• Add Veggies: Broccoli, spinach, or zucchini can be mixed in for added texture.

• Protein Swap: Use scallops, lobster, or chicken instead of shrimp.

• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.

• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess liquid.

2. Can this recipe be made ahead?
   Prepare sauce and shrimp separately, then assemble just before baking.

3. How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?
   Cook shrimp until just pink in the pan; they’ll continue cooking in the oven.

4. Can I make it spicier?
   Add cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or red pepper flakes to the sauce.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Yes, freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen.

6. Can I substitute the cream cheese?
   Mascarpone or full-fat cream works. Avoid low-fat versions, which affect texture.

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Conclusion

Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin is the perfect combination of creamy, garlicky, and cheesy comfort without any guilt. Quick to prepare, easy to customize, and impressive on the table, it’s a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Try it tonight, and enjoy a low-carb meal that feels indulgent yet simple to make. Don’t forget to share your results and favorite variations!

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