Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin Recipe

Introduction

This Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin is a rich and creamy dish perfect for low-carb lovers. Featuring tender shrimp baked in a flavorful garlic cream sauce topped with a crunchy pork rind crust, it’s an indulgent yet healthy meal option.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds large shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails removed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil (chopped) or 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (divided)
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup crushed pork rind crumbs

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then sear them for 1–2 minutes per side until just pink. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in the minced garlic, basil, and nutmeg, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 3–4 minutes until it slightly thickens. Stir in 1/2 cup of parmesan and all the Monterey Jack cheese until the sauce is smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Step 5: Place the seared shrimp in the prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the shrimp.
6. Step 6: In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup parmesan with the crushed pork rind crumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the dish.
7. Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the sauce is bubbling.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh basil for a brighter herbal flavor, but dried basil works perfectly if fresh isn’t available.
• To add a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the cream sauce.
• Swap pork rinds for crushed almonds or Parmesan-only topping for a different texture.
• Make sure not to overcook the shrimp during searing to keep them tender.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, being careful not to overcook the shrimp.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the dish.

Is this dish suitable for other low-carb diets besides keto?

Absolutely. This recipe is low in carbs and high in fat and protein, making it ideal for keto as well as other low-carb and Paleo-style diets.

Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 141 reviews

This Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin is a rich, creamy, and savory dish featuring sautéed shrimp smothered in a luscious garlic cream sauce topped with a crunchy pork rind and parmesan crust. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, this low-carb, keto-friendly recipe makes for an indulgent yet healthy dinner option.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Carb

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Shrimp

• 2 pounds large shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails removed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Cream Sauce

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil (chopped, or 1 tablespoon dried)
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded monterey jack cheese

Topping

• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup crushed pork rind crumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Sear Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and pepper, then sear them for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until just turning pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add minced garlic, chopped basil, and ground nutmeg. Cook for an additional 30 seconds or until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
4. Make Cream Sauce: Pour the heavy whipping cream into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese along with the shredded monterey jack cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
5. Assemble Dish: Arrange the seared shrimp evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the shrimp to coat them thoroughly.
6. Add Topping: In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese with the crushed pork rind crumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the shrimp and cream sauce.
7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and the sauce is bubbling. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

• Use fresh shrimp for best flavor and texture, but frozen shrimp can also be used; just thaw prior to cooking.
• The crushed pork rinds add a keto-friendly crunchy topping that substitutes breadcrumbs.
• Heavy cream ensures a rich sauce; for a lighter version, half-and-half can be used but the sauce may be less thick.
• Fresh basil imparts vibrant flavor, but dried basil works well in a pinch.
• Make sure not to overcook the shrimp during searing to keep them tender and juicy.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.

Keywords: keto shrimp, garlic shrimp au gratin, low carb shrimp recipe, keto dinner, creamy shrimp bake, au gratin seafood