Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin Recipe
This Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin is a rich and creamy seafood dish perfect for low-carb diets. Succulent shrimp are seared and baked in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce topped with a crispy parmesan and pork rind crust. Easy to prepare and bursting with bold flavors, it’s ideal for a special dinner or meal prepping keto-friendly comfort food.
- Author: Zane
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
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
Topping
- 1/2 cup crushed pork rind crumbs
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Sear Shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then sear them in the hot skillet for 1–2 minutes on each side until they turn just pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until softened. Then add minced garlic, chopped basil, and ground nutmeg, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make Cream Sauce: Pour 1 cup of heavy whipping cream into the skillet, allowing it to simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until it slightly thickens. Stir in 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese and all the shredded Monterey Jack cheese, mixing until smooth and well combined. Season the cream sauce to taste with salt and pepper.
- Assemble Dish: Arrange the seared shrimp evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the shrimp ensuring all pieces are covered.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese with 1/2 cup crushed pork rind crumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cream-covered shrimp to create a crispy topping.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. Bake until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling hot. Remove from oven and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor and texture; frozen shrimp can be used but thaw completely before cooking.
- Crushed pork rinds are used as a keto-friendly breadcrumb substitute; substitute with almond flour for a different low-carb option.
- Ensure not to overcook shrimp; they cook quickly and become rubbery if overdone.
- Fresh basil adds vibrant flavor, but dried basil is an excellent alternative.
- To reduce calories, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, though the sauce may be less rich.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
Keywords: Keto, Shrimp Au Gratin, Garlic Shrimp, Low-Carb Seafood, Keto Dinner, Creamy Shrimp Bake