Oven Baked Shrimp and Spinach Gratin – Creamy & Cheesy

Oven Baked Shrimp and Spinach Gratin is a rich, creamy, and cheesy seafood casserole. Tender shrimp, fresh spinach, and a cheesy béchamel sauce come together in a golden baked gratin, perfect as a comforting dinner or appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor
• Easy to make and bake in one dish
• Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining
• Combines seafood and vegetables effortlessly
• Can be served as a main course or side

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté shrimp for 2–3 minutes until just cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Remove excess liquid.
4. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook 1 minute to make a roux.
5. Slowly whisk in milk, cooking until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
6. Mix shrimp, spinach, and béchamel sauce together. Pour into a greased baking dish.
7. Top with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle paprika on top if using.
8. Bake for 15–20 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
9. Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad.

Tips & Variations

• Use frozen shrimp if fresh is unavailable; thaw before cooking
• Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies
• Substitute Gruyère or fontina for a different cheesy flavor
• Make individual portions in ramekins for elegant servings
• Serve with a squeeze of lemon for brightness

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers up to 2 days
• Reheating: Oven at 350°F until warmed through
• Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate; bake just before serving
• Freezing: Not recommended due to creamy sauce

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Serve alongside a fresh green salad
• Top with chopped parsley or chives
• Great for family dinners or small gatherings
• Can be served as an appetizer or main dish

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this with pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, add them at the end to prevent overcooking.

Can I use spinach from frozen?

Yes, thaw and squeeze out excess water before using.

Can this be made dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based milk, butter, and vegan cheese alternatives.

How do I prevent a watery gratin?

Cook the spinach well and remove excess liquid before combining with sauce.

Ready to Make It?

Oven Baked Shrimp and Spinach Gratin is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with minimal effort.

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