Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin

Name: Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Keto
Ingredients: 2 pounds large shrimp (peeled, deveined); 4 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup finely chopped onion; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (divided); 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1/2 cup crushed beef rind crumbs

Published: October 8, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up this impressive dish in no time.
Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, basil, and creamy cheese creates a mouthwatering experience.
Low-Carb Delight: Perfect for those following a keto diet while satisfying your cravings.
Versatile Serving Options: Great as an appetizer or main course, adaptable for any meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests; everyone will love it!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. These items will help you create the perfect Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Baking dish
Cooking spray or butter (for greasing)
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Large Skillet: Essential for searing the shrimp and sautéing aromatics evenly.
Baking Dish: A sturdy dish ensures even baking and easy serving of your au gratin.
Mixing Bowls: Useful for combining ingredients without creating a mess.

Ingredients

To make the delicious Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Shrimp

2 pounds large shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails removed)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Cream Sauce

4 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
4 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons fresh basil (chopped or 1 tablespoon dried)
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 cup grated parmesan cheese (divided)
1 cup shredded monterey jack cheese

For the Topping

1/2 cup crushed beef rind crumbs

How to Make Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sear Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Sear them for 1–2 minutes on each side until they turn just pink. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Then add minced garlic, chopped basil, and ground nutmeg. Cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Make Cream Sauce

Pour heavy whipping cream into the skillet and let it simmer for about 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese along with all of the Monterey jack cheese. Mix until smooth, then season to taste with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Assemble Dish

Place the seared shrimp in the prepared baking dish. Pour the luscious cream sauce evenly over the shrimp to coat them thoroughly.

Step 6: Add Topping

In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese with crushed beef rinds. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of your assembled dish.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and bubbling deliciously.

Enjoy your homemade Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin, packed with flavor while keeping it low-carb!

How to Serve Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin

Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin is a rich and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With a Fresh Salad

Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the creamy shrimp.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar with romaine, parmesan, and keto-friendly dressing pairs beautifully with the richness of the au gratin.

Pairing with Low-Carb Bread

Cloud Bread: This light and fluffy alternative is perfect for scooping up creamy bites of shrimp.
Almond Flour Bread: A hearty option that complements the flavors without adding carbs.

Accompanying with Vegetables

Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle with olive oil and roast until tender for a simple yet elegant side.
Sautéed Zucchini: Lightly sautéed zucchini adds a fresh crunch alongside your cheesy dish.

With a Glass of Wine

Chardonnay: The buttery notes in Chardonnay enhance the creaminess of the dish.
Sauvignon Blanc: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc balances the richness of the garlic shrimp.

How to Perfect Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin

To ensure your Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh shrimp whenever possible for better flavor and texture.
Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Sear shrimp just until pink to prevent them from becoming tough during baking.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste your cream sauce before pouring it over the shrimp to tweak salt and pepper levels.
Choose Quality Cheese: Using high-quality cheeses like parmesan and Monterey jack enhances flavor and melt quality.
Experiment with Herbs: Add other herbs like thyme or parsley to customize the flavor profile according to your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin

Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin pairs well with several delicious low-carb side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

Zucchini Noodles: Light, low-carb noodles that soak up sauce well; serve them under the au gratin for added texture.
Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy cauliflower mash provides a comforting side that complements the richness of shrimp.
Broccoli Florets: Steam or roast broccoli for a nutritious addition that adds color to your plate.
Riced Cauliflower Stir-Fry: Flavorful cauliflower rice stir-fried with vegetables offers a satisfying base for this dish.
Spinach Sautéed in Olive Oil: Quick sautéed spinach adds vibrant color and nutrients while remaining low in carbs.
Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy slaw with a tangy dressing can provide freshness that contrasts nicely with the creamy au gratin.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crisp Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with seafood dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin turns out perfectly, be mindful of these common mistakes.

Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your shrimp can lead to blandness. Be generous with salt and pepper for maximum flavor.
Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long can make them tough. Sear just until pink and remove them from heat.
Not thickening the sauce: If you don’t let the cream simmer long enough, the sauce may be too runny. Keep an eye on it until it slightly thickens.
Ignoring the cheese ratios: Using too much or too little cheese can affect the texture and flavor. Stick to the measurements for a balanced dish.
Rushing the baking process: Baking for too short a time won’t allow the top to crisp up. Ensure it bakes until golden and bubbling for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin

You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months.
Use a freezer-safe container, ensuring it is tightly sealed.

Reheating Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warm throughout.
Microwave: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them completely before cooking for best results.

Is Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and is great for meal prep, making it perfect for busy weeks.

How can I customize my Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition. You can also switch up the cheeses based on your preference.

What do I serve with Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables, complementing its rich flavors perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin is not only indulgent but also versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences. This creamy dish is sure to impress at any dinner table while keeping your carb count low. Don’t hesitate to try different cheeses or add veggies for customization!

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