Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Toast

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

This dish features golden garlic bread generously brushed with a savory garlic butter blend. Juicy shrimp sautéed in olive oil are layered with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, creating a melty, flavorful filling. Grilled to crispy perfection, it balances crunchy textures with gooey cheese and a subtle kick from red pepper flakes. Ideal for lunch or dinner, it pairs wonderfully with tomato soup or a fresh salad for a comforting, satisfying meal.

A woman in a white chef's coat holding a glass of wine.
Provided By Lina
Last updated on Mon, 06 Oct 2025 21:46:00 GMT
A grilled cheese sandwich with shrimp and garlic. Bookmark
A grilled cheese sandwich with shrimp and garlic. | deliciousrecipeshere.com

This Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese is the ultimate sandwich upgrade. Buttery, garlicky bread combined with melty cheese and tender shrimp creates a harmony of textures and flavors that feels indulgent yet easy to make. Perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, each bite delivers crispy, gooey, and savory satisfaction.

I first made this sandwich on a busy weeknight and was amazed by how fast it came together while still feeling special. Now it’s a regular treat when I want something comforting but quick.

Ingredients

  • Softened unsalted butter: for easy spreading and richness
  • Minced garlic: to add deep aromatic flavor essential for that garlicky kick
  • Fresh parsley: for brightness and color
  • Salt: to bring out all the flavors
  • Thickcut bread such as sourdough or Texas toast: to hold the fillings without getting soggy
  • Cooked shrimp chopped into bite sized pieces: for tender seafood bursts in every mouthful
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese: for excellent melt and stretch
  • Grated Parmesan cheese: for salty, nutty notes that deepen the flavor
  • Optional red pepper flakes: to add a hint of heat
  • Olive oil: to crisp and warm the shrimp before assembly

Instructions

Make the Garlic Butter:
Combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt in a small bowl until evenly mixed. This garlicky butter coats the bread and gives the sandwich its signature flavor.
Cook the Shrimp:
Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped shrimp and cook just 2 to 3 minutes until warmed through. Since the shrimp are precooked, avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
Spread the garlic butter generously on one side of each bread slice. On the opposite side layer mozzarella, shrimp, Parmesan, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Top with another bread slice with the buttered side facing outwards.
Grill to Perfection:
Heat a skillet or griddle over mediumlow heat. Place sandwiches on the hot surface and cook 3 to 4 minutes per side until bread is golden and crispy while pressing slightly with a spatula to encourage melty cheese.
Serve and Enjoy:
Remove sandwiches from heat and let rest for 1 to 2 minutes to set. Slice in half and serve with marinara sauce or a side of tomato soup for the ultimate comfort meal.
A grilled cheese sandwich with shrimp on top.
A grilled cheese sandwich with shrimp on top. | deliciousrecipeshere.com

The shrimp in this sandwich deliver a wonderful seafood flavor that balances perfectly with the buttery garlic bread and gooey cheeses. One time, after making these for a family game night, everyone insisted on having seconds because the combination was so addictive.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, warm the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the crisp crust rather than microwaving which can leave it soggy. Freezing is not recommended as this can alter the bread’s texture negatively.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try cheddar, provolone, or gouda in place of mozzarella for different cheese profiles. Swap the cooked shrimp with cooked crab meat or lobster for a luxurious twist. Use whole grain or sourdough bread if you prefer a different texture or flavor base.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy with a simple green salad to balance richness. Pair with garlic Parmesan fries for an indulgent meal. Dip in warm tomato soup to complement the garlic and cheese flavors.

A stack of grilled cheese sandwiches with shrimp.
A stack of grilled cheese sandwiches with shrimp. | deliciousrecipeshere.com

Enjoy this melty, garlicky shrimp grilled cheese sandwich with its crispy, buttery bread and cheesy seafood filling. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser anytime you want an impressive but easy to make meal.

FAQs About This Recipe

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?

Yes, thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat dry before sautéing briefly to warm them up without overcooking.

→ What cheeses work best with this sandwich?

Mozzarella offers excellent meltiness, while Parmesan adds a nutty depth; blends with cheddar or provolone also enhance flavor.

→ Is it possible to make this using an air fryer?

Absolutely, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.

→ How do I ensure the bread stays crispy without sogginess?

Use thick, sturdy bread and cook on medium-low heat to avoid burning and maintain a golden, crisp crust.

→ What sides pair well with this shrimp sandwich?

Classic tomato soup, garlic Parmesan fries, or a fresh green salad complement the savory flavors nicely.

Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Toast

Buttery garlic bread layered with melted cheese and shrimp makes a crisp, savory delight perfect any time.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
10 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes
Provided By: Lina

Recipe Type: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Great for Beginners

Cuisine Inspiration: American

Portion Size: 4 Serving Size (4 grilled cheese sandwiches)

Dietary Preferences: ~

What You’ll Need

→ Garlic Butter

01 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
02 2 cloves garlic, minced
03 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
04 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Sandwich

05 8 slices thick-cut bread (such as sourdough or Texas toast)
06 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
07 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
08 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
09 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
10 1 tablespoon olive oil

Steps to Make This

Step 01

In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt until evenly mixed. Set aside.

Step 02

Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and reserve.

Step 03

Spread garlic butter on one side of each bread slice. On the unbuttered side, layer shredded mozzarella, cooked shrimp, grated Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired. Top with another bread slice, buttered side facing out.

Step 04

Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook 3 to 4 minutes per side until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted. Press gently with a spatula to aid melting.

Step 05

Remove sandwiches from heat and allow to rest for 1 to 2 minutes before slicing. Serve with marinara sauce or tomato soup for dipping.

Additional Notes

  1. Use thick-cut bread to prevent sogginess. Cook on medium-low heat to achieve crispy bread and melted cheese without overcooking the shrimp.
  2. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheat in a skillet to retain texture.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Skillet or griddle
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Allergy Warnings

Always check ingredient labels for allergens, and consult a healthcare provider if needed.
  • Contains shellfish and dairy
  • May contain gluten from bread

Nutrition Details (Per Portion)

These details are for informational purposes and aren’t a substitute for professional guidance.
  • Calories: 420
  • Fat: 22 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 32 grams
  • Proteins: 25 grams