Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin Flavorful and Easy Dish

October 23, 2025October 4, 2025 by Hazel

If you’re looking for an easy, tasty, and low-carb meal, you’ve found it! Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin is a dish bursting with flavor and richness. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy creamy shrimp topped with melty cheese. In this post, I’ll share the step-by-step instructions, useful tips, and some delicious variations. Let’s dive in and make your next mealtime special without derailing your keto diet!

Why I Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor Combination: The rich blend of garlic, cheese, and shrimp creates a mouthwatering dish that’s hard to resist.
Keto Friendly: This recipe is perfect for those following a low-carb or keto diet, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 35 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
Impressive Presentation: Serving this baked shrimp au gratin will wow your guests and make any meal feel special.

Ingredients

Full List of Ingredients

To make Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin, gather these simple items:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Each ingredient plays a key role in building flavor and texture. The shrimp bring a sweet taste, while the garlic adds a nice kick.

Alternative Ingredients for Different Flavors

You can swap some ingredients for new flavors. Try these options:

Use shrimp with shells for a richer taste.
Replace olive oil with butter for a creamier base.
Add red pepper flakes for heat.
Use different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a twist.
Swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

These swaps keep the dish exciting and cater to your personal taste.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

Each serving of Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin (about one-fourth of the dish) offers:

Calories: 450
Protein: 35g
Fat: 35g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 0g
Net Carbs: 5g

This dish fits well within a keto diet, providing plenty of flavor without the carbs. Enjoy a satisfying meal that keeps you on track!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps Overview

Start by gathering your ingredients. You will need:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Next, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps the dish cook evenly.

Cooking Instructions for Perfect Shrimp

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until it smells great.

Now, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the skillet from heat when done.

Baking Instructions for a Golden Finish

In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well.

Pour this creamy mix over the shrimp in the skillet. Stir gently to coat the shrimp.

Next, transfer everything to an oven-safe baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Bake in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Look for a bubbly and golden brown top. Once done, remove it from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Cooking Shrimp

Cooking shrimp well is key to this dish. Start with fresh, large shrimp. They cook fast, so watch them closely. Heat olive oil in your skillet. Add minced garlic first; it gives great flavor. Sauté for just one minute. Then, add shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for only 2-3 minutes. You want them pink and opaque, not overcooked. Overcooked shrimp turn tough and rubbery. Remove them from heat as soon as they are ready.

Achieving the Perfect Cheese Melt

For a perfect cheese melt, choose good-quality cheese. I like a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan. Mozzarella melts well, while Parmesan adds a nice bite. Mix half of the mozzarella into the cream mixture. This step ensures the cheese blends nicely with the sauce. Top with the remaining mozzarella before baking. Spread it evenly for a golden crust. Bake in a hot oven, and watch it closely. You want bubbly cheese that is golden brown.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is cooking shrimp too long. They need just a few minutes. Another mistake is using low-quality cheese. Avoid that if you want a great melt. Don’t skip the lemon juice; it adds brightness to the dish. Lastly, ensure your oven is preheated. This helps achieve that perfect bake. Following these tips will help you make a tasty Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin. Enjoy the cooking process!

Pro Tips

Use Fresh Shrimp: Always opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
Customize the Cheese: Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses, like gouda or cheddar, for a unique twist.
Adjust the Spice: For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream mixture.
Let it Rest: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors and make it easier to serve.

Variations

Low-Carb Alternatives

If you want to keep it low-carb, you have great options. Instead of heavy cream, try using coconut cream. It adds a nice flavor and still keeps the dish creamy. You can also swap out mozzarella cheese for a lower-carb cheese, like goat cheese. This will change the taste but keep it delicious.

Flavor Variations

You can easily change the flavor of this dish. If you like heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. For an herbed flavor, mix in fresh basil, thyme, or dill. These herbs boost the taste and make it more vibrant. You can also play with spices. Try adding curry powder for a unique twist or lemon zest for extra brightness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin with fresh salads. A simple green salad pairs well and adds crunch. You can also serve it with steamed broccoli or zucchini noodles for a filling meal. If you want something heartier, consider cauliflower rice. It absorbs the flavors and adds a nice texture.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers Properly

To store your Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin, let it cool first. Once cooled, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the shrimp fresh and tasty. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you plan to eat it later, make sure to seal it well.

Reheating Instructions for Optimal Taste

When you are ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them gently. You can use a microwave or an oven. If using a microwave, heat for one to two minutes. Stir it halfway through to warm it evenly. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes. This keeps the dish creamy and delicious.

Freezing Tips for Long-Term Storage

If you want to keep your dish longer, freezing is a great option. Divide the shrimp au gratin into portions. Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. To eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. This method helps maintain its flavor and texture.

FAQs

What makes this dish keto-friendly?

Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin is great for keto diets. It has low carbs and high fat. The heavy cream and cheese give rich flavor and keep you full. The shrimp adds protein without extra carbs. You won’t miss the bread or pasta in this dish!

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. Thaw shrimp in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water. This helps keep the texture right. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque. Frozen shrimp work well and save time!

How can I make it dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, swap heavy cream for coconut cream. Use dairy-free cheese instead of mozzarella and Parmesan. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor. These swaps keep the dish creamy and tasty. Enjoy a vegan version without losing flavor!

You learned about key ingredients for a great shrimp dish. I shared tips for cooking shrimp perfectly and avoiding common mistakes. I covered variations that suit different diets and tastes. Finally, I explained how to store leftovers and answer common questions.

Cooking shrimp can be simple and fun. With these steps, you can enjoy tasty meals every time. Try out your own flavors and get creativ

$To make Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin, gather these simple items: - 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Each ingredient plays a key role in building flavor and texture. The shrimp bring a sweet taste, while the garlic adds a nice kick. You can swap some ingredients for new flavors. Try these options: - Use shrimp with shells for a richer taste. - Replace olive oil with butter for a creamier base. - Add red pepper flakes for heat. - Use different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a twist. - Swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free option. These swaps keep the dish exciting and cater to your personal taste. Each serving of Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin (about one-fourth of the dish) offers: - Calories: 450 - Protein: 35g - Fat: 35g - Carbohydrates: 5g - Fiber: 0g - Net Carbs: 5g This dish fits well within a keto diet, providing plenty of flavor without the carbs. Enjoy a satisfying meal that keeps you on track! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by gathering your ingredients. You will need: - 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Next, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps the dish cook evenly. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until it smells great. Now, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the skillet from heat when done. In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well. Pour this creamy mix over the shrimp in the skillet. Stir gently to coat the shrimp. Next, transfer everything to an oven-safe baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Look for a bubbly and golden brown top. Once done, remove it from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Cooking shrimp well is key to this dish. Start with fresh, large shrimp. They cook fast, so watch them closely. Heat olive oil in your skillet. Add minced garlic first; it gives great flavor. Sauté for just one minute. Then, add shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for only 2-3 minutes. You want them pink and opaque, not overcooked. Overcooked shrimp turn tough and rubbery. Remove them from heat as soon as they are ready. For a perfect cheese melt, choose good-quality cheese. I like a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan. Mozzarella melts well, while Parmesan adds a nice bite. Mix half of the mozzarella into the cream mixture. This step ensures the cheese blends nicely with the sauce. Top with the remaining mozzarella before baking. Spread it evenly for a golden crust. Bake in a hot oven, and watch it closely. You want bubbly cheese that is golden brown. One common mistake is cooking shrimp too long. They need just a few minutes. Another mistake is using low-quality cheese. Avoid that if you want a great melt. Don't skip the lemon juice; it adds brightness to the dish. Lastly, ensure your oven is preheated. This helps achieve that perfect bake. Following these tips will help you make a tasty Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin. Enjoy the cooking process! Pro Tips Use Fresh Shrimp: Always opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Customize the Cheese: Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses, like gouda or cheddar, for a unique twist. Adjust the Spice: For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream mixture. Let it Rest: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors and make it easier to serve. {{image_2}} If you want to keep it low-carb, you have great options. Instead of heavy cream, try using coconut cream. It adds a nice flavor and still keeps the dish creamy. You can also swap out mozzarella cheese for a lower-carb cheese, like goat cheese. This will change the taste but keep it delicious. You can easily change the flavor of this dish. If you like heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. For an herbed flavor, mix in fresh basil, thyme, or dill. These herbs boost the taste and make it more vibrant. You can also play with spices. Try adding curry powder for a unique twist or lemon zest for extra brightness. Serve your Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin with fresh salads. A simple green salad pairs well and adds crunch. You can also serve it with steamed broccoli or zucchini noodles for a filling meal. If you want something heartier, consider cauliflower rice. It absorbs the flavors and adds a nice texture. To store your Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin, let it cool first. Once cooled, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the shrimp fresh and tasty. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you plan to eat it later, make sure to seal it well. When you are ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them gently. You can use a microwave or an oven. If using a microwave, heat for one to two minutes. Stir it halfway through to warm it evenly. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes. This keeps the dish creamy and delicious. If you want to keep your dish longer, freezing is a great option. Divide the shrimp au gratin into portions. Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. To eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. This method helps maintain its flavor and texture. Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin is great for keto diets. It has low carbs and high fat. The heavy cream and cheese give rich flavor and keep you full. The shrimp adds protein without extra carbs. You won't miss the bread or pasta in this dish! Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. Thaw shrimp in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water. This helps keep the texture right. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque. Frozen shrimp work well and save time! To make this dish dairy-free, swap heavy cream for coconut cream. Use dairy-free cheese instead of mozzarella and Parmesan. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor. These swaps keep the dish creamy and tasty. Enjoy a vegan version without losing flavor! You learned about key ingredients for a great shrimp dish. I shared tips for cooking shrimp perfectly and avoiding common mistakes. I covered variations that suit different diets and tastes. Finally, I explained how to store leftovers and answer common questions. Cooking shrimp can be simple and fun. With these steps, you can enjoy tasty meals every time. Try out your own flavors and get creative!$