If you love the idea of taking your grilled cheese to the next level, you’re in for a treat with this Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp mingling with gooey cheddar and mozzarella, all tucked between slices of buttery, golden-brown sourdough. It’s a melt-in-your-mouth seafood sensation that’s equally perfect for a cozy lunch or a crowd-pleasing dinner. With a few simple ingredients and a skillet, you’ll have a sandwich that’s as impressive as it is easy to make.

Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich plays a special role, from adding savory richness to ensuring the perfect crunch. With just a handful of staples, you can create a sandwich that’s bursting with flavor and texture.

Cooked shrimp (8 ounces, chopped): The star of the show, offering sweet, briny notes and a satisfying bite.
Mayonnaise (1 tablespoon): Adds creaminess and binds the filling together for a luscious texture.
Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Brings a gentle tang and subtle heat, elevating the flavor profile.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers a mellow, savory punch that complements both shrimp and cheese beautifully.
Smoked paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Lends a hint of smokiness and color, taking the sandwich to new heights.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby finish.
Sourdough or artisan bread (4 slices): Sturdy and flavorful, perfect for supporting all that cheesy, shrimp-filled goodness.
Butter (1 tablespoon, softened): Ensures a crisp, golden crust when grilling the sandwich.
Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into a bold, sharp layer that pairs perfectly with the shrimp.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup): Gives that irresistible stretch and a creamy, mild balance.

How to Make Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich

Step 1: Mix the Shrimp Filling

Start by combining your chopped shrimp, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Stir everything together until the shrimp is evenly coated and the flavors are well blended. This mixture is the heart of your Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich, so take a moment to admire how vibrant and tempting it already looks!

Step 2: Build the Sandwich

Lay out your slices of bread and butter one side of each piece. On the unbuttered side of two slices, sprinkle half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to create a delicious base. Spoon the shrimp mixture evenly on top, making sure you get plenty in every bite. Add the remaining cheese over the shrimp, then crown each with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing out. This layering creates that classic, melty center and irresistibly crisp crust.

Step 3: Grill to Golden Perfection

Heat a skillet over medium heat—patience is key here for even browning! Carefully place your assembled sandwiches in the skillet. Let them sizzle for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula for a uniform crispness. You’re looking for a deep golden color and oozing cheese. Once they’re perfectly grilled, remove from the pan, slice in half, and get ready to enjoy your Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich right away.

How to Serve Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top of your Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich adds a burst of color and a touch of freshness. If you like a little kick, a dash of hot sauce or a few thin slices of pickled jalapeño make excellent finishing touches. You can also add a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Side Dishes

This sandwich pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, tangy coleslaw, or a simple cup of tomato soup. For a heartier meal, serve alongside sweet potato fries or kettle chips. The key is to keep sides light and fresh to let the Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich shine as the star of your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the sandwich into quarters for an appetizer platter, or cut into strips and serve with dipping sauces for a fun, shareable option. For brunch, top each half with a fried egg, or tuck in a few sliced tomatoes and avocado for extra flair. The Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich is as versatile as your imagination!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich, wrap each sandwich tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. They’ll stay tasty for up to two days, although they’re best enjoyed fresh and melty.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t ideal for this sandwich due to the creamy shrimp filling and cheese, but if needed, you can wrap the ungrilled, assembled sandwiches in plastic and freeze for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before grilling for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet over low heat and cover with a lid. Warm for a few minutes per side until the bread crisps up and the cheese melts through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy and the filling unevenly heated.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for the Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before chopping and mixing. Frozen shrimp work wonderfully and make this recipe even more convenient for busy days.

What’s the best bread for a Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich?

Sourdough or a hearty artisan loaf works best for holding all the fillings and achieving that perfect crisp. However, you can use any bread you have on hand—just avoid very thin-sliced bread so your sandwich stays sturdy.

Can I add extra veggies or toppings?

Definitely! Sliced tomatoes, spinach, or even a handful of arugula add freshness and extra flavor. You can also experiment with thinly sliced red onions or a layer of avocado.

Is there a good cheese alternative if I don’t have cheddar or mozzarella?

Feel free to try Monterey Jack, provolone, or a mild gouda in your Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich. As long as the cheese melts well, you’re on the right track!

How spicy is the Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich?

The sandwich is mild as written, with just a hint of warmth from the smoked paprika and Dijon. If you prefer more heat, add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce to the shrimp mixture.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to experience just how incredible this Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich is—cheesy, savory, and totally satisfying! Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends at brunch, it’s bound to become a new favorite. Give it a try and share the love!

Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 25 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Shrimp & Cheese Grilled Sandwich combines succulent cooked shrimp with a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella cheeses, all melted between buttery, toasted sourdough slices. Enhanced with Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and fresh parsley, this quick and flavorful seafood sandwich makes a satisfying main course perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp Mixture

8 ounces cooked shrimp, chopped
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Bread & Cheese

4 slices sourdough or artisan bread
1 tablespoon butter, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the shrimp mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended. Set the mixture aside to let the flavors meld.
Assemble the sandwiches: Butter one side of each bread slice. Place two slices of bread buttered side down on a clean surface. Layer half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over these slices. Spoon the shrimp mixture over the cheese layer, spreading it evenly. Add the remaining cheese on top of the shrimp, then cover each with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
Grill the sandwiches: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheeses have melted. Press gently with a spatula during cooking to ensure even toasting and melting. Once done, remove from heat.
Serve: Slice the sandwiches in half and serve immediately while warm and gooey.

Notes

You can use pre-cooked shrimp or sauté raw shrimp in garlic butter for a fresher taste before chopping.
Adding sliced tomatoes or dashes of hot sauce can boost flavor complexity.
Use artisan or sourdough bread for best texture and taste.
Adjust seasoning to your preference, especially paprika and garlic powder.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American