Description
This Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin is a creamy, cheesy seafood dish perfect for low-carb diets. Succulent shrimp are seared and baked in a rich garlic cream sauce topped with crunchy pork rind crumbs and melted cheeses, delivering a satisfying and flavorful meal in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter (for richness)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (or dried)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (for warmth)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (for creaminess)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1 cup shredded monterey jack cheese
Topping
- 1 cup crushed pork rind crumbs (for crunch)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Sear the shrimp: Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a skillet. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then sear them for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic, fresh basil, and ground nutmeg; cook for an additional 30 seconds to release the flavors.
- Make the cream sauce: Pour in the heavy whipping cream and let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir in half of the parmesan cheese and all the shredded monterey jack cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the dish: Place the seared shrimp evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the rich cream sauce over the shrimp, ensuring they are well coated.
- Add the topping: Mix the remaining parmesan cheese with the crushed pork rind crumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the shrimp and cream sauce for a crunchy, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- Crushed pork rind crumbs are a great low-carb alternative to breadcrumbs, adding crunch without carbs.
- You can substitute dried basil if fresh basil is unavailable, but fresh offers a brighter flavor.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp during searing to avoid rubbery texture; they will cook further in the oven.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete keto meal.
