Ultimate Shrimp Grilled Cheese Recipe : Creamy, Cheesy & Irresistible

If you’re craving a next-level grilled cheese sandwich, this Shrimp Grilled Cheese is about to become your new favorite. This recipe combines the rich, melty goodness of sharp cheddar cheese with tender, juicy shrimp for a luxurious twist on the classic. Crispy buttered bread, golden brown from the skillet, adds the perfect crunch to balance the gooey cheese and flavorful shrimp filling.

Grilled cheese sandwiches have long been a comfort food favorite, but this version adds an elegant seafood touch without making things complicated. It’s quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a restaurant-quality taste right at home.

Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch, an easy dinner, or an indulgent snack, this shrimp grilled cheese is perfect for any occasion. It pairs beautifully with tomato soup or a fresh green salad. The best part? It’s ready in under 15 minutes! Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this recipe.

Why You Will Love Making This Recipe

There are countless reasons to love this Shrimp Grilled Cheese, but here are the top five:

Quick & Easy – This sandwich is ready in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy days when you need a fast yet satisfying meal.
Elevated Comfort Food – Traditional grilled cheese is already delicious, but adding shrimp takes it to a whole new level of indulgence.
Rich & Creamy Texture – The combination of melty cheddar cheese and succulent shrimp creates an ultra-creamy and satisfying bite.
Customizable – While cheddar is a classic choice, you can mix in mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
Pairs Perfectly with Soups & Salads – Serve this sandwich with a warm bowl of tomato soup or a crisp side salad for a well-balanced meal.

The buttery, golden toast, paired with juicy shrimp and gooey cheese, makes every bite irresistible. Even if you’ve never combined seafood with grilled cheese before, this recipe will prove that the pairing is a match made in culinary heaven!

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Ingredients

1 teaspoon unsalted butter
2 slices of whole-grain or sourdough bread
1.5 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
4 large cooked, peeled, and deveined shrimp, defrosted
1 teaspoon garlic butter (optional, for extra flavor)

Equipment Used

Cast iron skillet or non-stick pan
Spatula
Butter knife

Directions & Instructions

Heat the Butter – In a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. If using garlic butter for extra flavor, spread it on the bread slices.
Toast the Bread – Place the bread slices in the skillet and lightly toast one side until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Layer the Cheese & Shrimp – On the toasted side of one bread slice, add a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese. Top with grilled shrimp and a bit more cheese for that gooey melt factor.
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Assemble & Cook – Place the second slice of bread on top, toasted side facing in. Press gently and return the sandwich to the skillet. Cook over low heat for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula until the cheese melts and the bread becomes crispy.
Serve & Enjoy – Remove from the skillet, let it cool for a minute, then slice and serve with tomato soup or a side salad!

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Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per sandwich:

Calories: 350-400 kcal
Fat: 18-20g
Carbohydrates: 30-35g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 500-600mg
Fiber: 3g

For a healthier version, opt for whole-grain bread and use reduced-fat cheese. If you want a keto-friendly option, replace the bread with low-carb alternatives like almond flour bread.

Prep Time and Cook Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 13 minutes

Variations

Spicy Shrimp Grilled Cheese – Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
Cajun-Style – Toss the shrimp in Cajun seasoning before adding to the sandwich for a smoky, spicy flavor.
Extra Creamy Version – Mix in a little cream cheese with the cheddar for an ultra-creamy texture.
Garlic Parmesan – Swap cheddar for parmesan and mozzarella, and use garlic butter for a richer taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use raw shrimp instead of pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes! If using raw shrimp, sauté them in butter for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.

What type of bread is best for grilled cheese?

Sourdough and whole-grain bread work best as they toast well and hold up to the melty cheese and shrimp.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Grilled cheese is best fresh, but you can prep the shrimp in advance and assemble the sandwich when ready to cook.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar is classic, but Gouda, Havarti, or Monterey Jack are also great choices for extra creaminess.

Pro Tips By Lyndy

Tip 1: Always cook grilled cheese over medium-low heat to achieve a perfect crispy crust without burning the bread.
Tip 2: Use garlic butter instead of plain butter for an extra layer of flavor.
Tip 3: For ultimate gooeyness, mix two different types of cheese like cheddar and gouda.
Tip 4: Press the sandwich lightly with a spatula while cooking to ensure even crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

This Shrimp Grilled Cheese pairs beautifully with:

Tomato soup – A classic pairing that complements the creamy, cheesy sandwich.
Side salad – A fresh green salad with balsamic dressing balances the richness.
French fries – Crispy fries make for an indulgent meal.