If you love a sandwich that brings together the luxurious flavors of the sea and the irresistible comfort of melted cheese, then this Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe is absolutely for you. It’s the kind of sandwich that makes you pause, savor every bite, and wish you had a second one ready to go. The combination of succulent shrimp seasoned just right, gooey mozzarella cheese, and perfectly toasted sourdough bread creates a harmony of textures and flavors that’s simply unforgettable. Whether you’re craving a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this recipe hits all the right notes with minimal effort but maximum reward.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started is a breeze with ingredients that are easy to find but pack a punch in flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays a vital role in making this sandwich sing—from the buttery crisp of the sourdough to the tender, flavorful shrimp and the melty cheese that pulls everything together.
- Shrimp (8 oz): Peeled and deveined shrimp offer a tender, juicy protein that cooks quickly and soaks up seasoning beautifully.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Choose a good melting cheese to create that irresistible gooey texture inside the sandwich.
- Sourdough or thick-cut bread (4 slices): Thick slices provide the perfect sturdy and crispy foundation for grilling.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Used for toasting, it delivers a rich, golden crust that enhances the sandwich’s flavor.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps cook the shrimp evenly without sticking.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Infuses the shrimp with a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that brings out a Mediterranean vibe and complements the shrimp perfectly.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning both the shrimp and bread to balance all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a bright, fresh garnish that elevates the presentation and flavor contrast.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A pinch introduces a gentle kick of heat, ideal for those who like a little spice.
How to Make Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp
Begin by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant, around 30 seconds; this will infuse the oil with wonderful savory notes. Add the shrimp next, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the shrimp until they turn a lovely pink and are cooked through—this should take about 3 to 4 minutes. Once done, set the shrimp aside and keep the pan ready for grilling the sandwich.
Step 2: Prepare the Sandwich
Now, take the slices of bread and spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice—that buttery layer is key for achieving that perfect golden crisp on the outside. On the unbuttered side of one slice, sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese, then layer on the sautéed shrimp. Top the shrimp with the remaining cheese and cover with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing outwards. This layering ensures every bite is stuffed with cheesy, savory shrimp goodness.
Step 3: Grill to Perfection
Place a skillet or griddle over medium heat and gently place the sandwich on it. Grill one side until the bread turns crispy and golden brown and you can start to see the cheese melt—about 3 to 4 minutes. Flip the sandwich carefully and grill the other side just the same, making sure both sides have that perfect crunch and the cheese is melted fully. The aroma at this point is downright irresistible!
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once your sandwich is perfectly grilled, transfer it to a plate and sprinkle over some fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. If you love a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes on top. Serve immediately while everything is warm, gooey, and bursting with flavor. This is more than just a sandwich; it’s a celebration of flavors.
How to Serve Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley enhances the visual appeal and adds a fragrant burst that cuts through the richness beautifully. For those who enjoy a touch of spice, red pepper flakes are an excellent way to bring heat without overwhelming the delicate shrimp flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair your Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe with light, crisp salads—like a lemony arugula salad or a simple cucumber and tomato salad—to brighten and balance the meal. You could also serve a side of sweet potato fries or a bowl of tomato basil soup for a comforting, hearty combo that complements the sandwich’s richness wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the sandwich into bite-size triangles for a fun appetizer or party snack. You could also serve it open-faced with the shrimp and cheese mixture broiled under a grill for a melted, bubbly finish. Another idea is to add a drizzle of garlic aioli or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top to elevate the flavors further.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The shrimp and cheese sandwich retains most of its flavor but will be best reheated rather than eaten cold.
Freezing
You can freeze the prepared but ungrilled sandwiches by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and then placing in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling to ensure even heating and the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, place the sandwich on a skillet over medium-low heat, covering it loosely with foil to help melt the cheese without burning the bread. Heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through and deliciously crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as that can make the bread soggy and the shrimp rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in the Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for its melting qualities, you can experiment with cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for a little spicy kick. Just pick a cheese that melts well to maintain that gooey texture.
Is it okay to use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly as long as you thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent the sandwich from getting crispy.
What bread works best for this sandwich?
Thick-cut sourdough is ideal since it crisps up nicely without becoming soggy. You can also use ciabatta or a hearty country loaf. Avoid very soft or thin bread as it might not hold the filling well.
Can I add vegetables to the Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe?
Definitely! Thinly sliced tomatoes, spinach leaves, or even a few slices of avocado can add freshness and texture, making the sandwich even more enjoyable and nutritious.
How spicy is this sandwich with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle heat that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the shrimp or cheese. You can adjust the amount or skip them entirely based on your spice preference.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into this Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe—warm, cheesy, with the fresh, delicate flavor of shrimp nestled inside crusty bread. It’s a creative yet approachable recipe that can easily become your go-to for a cozy meal or a quick, impressive bite to share with friends. I hope you enjoy making and savoring it as much as I do!
Print
Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
A deliciously savory Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich featuring tender sautéed shrimp with garlic and Italian seasoning, melted mozzarella cheese, and crispy toasted sourdough bread. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Shrimp Filling
- 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Sandwich
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or any melting cheese)
- 4 slices of sourdough or thick-cut bread
- 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and sauté until pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Assemble the sandwich: Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side of one slice, evenly spread half of the shredded cheese. Layer the sautéed shrimp on top of the cheese, then add the remaining cheese. Place the other slice of bread on top, ensuring the buttered side is facing out.
- Grill the sandwich: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grill the sandwich on one side until the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese begins to melt, approximately 3-4 minutes. Carefully flip and grill the other side until both sides are golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the sandwich from the skillet, garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired, then serve hot and enjoy your Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich.
Notes
- You can substitute mozzarella with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or any melting cheese you prefer.
- Use a thick-cut bread like sourdough to hold the shrimp filling well without getting soggy.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
- Ensure shrimp is fully cooked before assembling to avoid any food safety risks.
- For extra crispiness, you can press the sandwich lightly with a spatula while grilling.
