Introduction
If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist, this Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese hits all the right notes.
It combines the buttery, herby crunch of garlic bread with juicy, paprika-seasoned shrimp and gooey melted Monterey Jack cheese — all grilled to golden perfection.
Whether you’re looking to elevate your grilled cheese game or impress at your next casual dinner, this indulgent sandwich delivers bold flavor in every bite.
Perfect for seafood lovers and grilled cheese fans alike!
Ingredients
For the Garlic Bread:
1 loaf French bread, sliced in half lengthwise
4 tablespoons butter, softened
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
For the Shrimp Filling:
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon paprika
For the Sandwich:
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Additional butter for grilling
Preparation
Prepare the Garlic Bread:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on each half of the French bread.
Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
Cook the Shrimp:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Sandwich:
On one half of the garlic bread, layer the cooked shrimp and sprinkle with Monterey Jack cheese.
Place the other half of the bread on top, and press down gently to adhere.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of butter.
Carefully place the sandwich in the skillet and grill until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Cut into portions and serve hot.
How to Store
Refrigerator:
Wrap leftover sandwiches tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To Reheat:
For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again.
You can also use a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.
Avoid microwaving, as it may make the bread soggy.
Freezing (Not Recommended):
Due to the shrimp and melted cheese, this sandwich doesn’t freeze well.
For best texture and flavor, enjoy it fresh or within a day or two.
Variations and Tips
Variations
Cheese Swap: Try mozzarella, provolone, cheddar, or a blend for different textures and flavors.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or sliced jalapeños to the shrimp for some heat.
Cajun Style: Use Cajun seasoning instead of paprika for bold, smoky flavor.
Add Veggies: Thin slices of tomato, sautéed spinach, or roasted red peppers can add freshness and color.
Open-Faced Option: Serve each garlic bread half topped with shrimp and cheese, broiled until melted — great as a party appetizer.
Tips
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They cook quickly! Overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery, so keep a close eye.
Press While Grilling: Use a spatula or another skillet to gently press the sandwich for even browning and melty cheese.
Pre-shred Cheese: If shredding your own cheese, it melts more smoothly than pre-shredded (which has anti-caking agents).
Make it Mini: Use smaller bread pieces or rolls for fun sliders or appetizer-sized bites.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~520 kcal
Protein: ~30g
Fat: ~28g
Saturated Fat: ~12g
Carbohydrates: ~35g
Sugar: ~2g
Fiber: ~2g
Cholesterol: ~195mg
Sodium: ~850mg
Notes:
Values will vary depending on the type and amount of cheese, bread thickness, and exact butter or oil amounts used.
To reduce calories, use lighter cheese, less butter, or whole grain bread.
Want to boost fiber? Add veggies like spinach or tomato to the sandwich.
Mediterranean Salmon Patties Recipe With Feta
A Natural Remedy for Brain Health, Inflammation, and Joint Pain
We’ve cooked this meal 9 times in the last month, and everyone is still loving it.