Description
Cheesy Shrimp and Spinach Bake
Turn simple ingredients into a stunning cheesy shrimp bake, brimming with creamy goodness!
Ingredients:
450g shrimp
1.5 cups spinach
1 cup mozzarella, shredded
1/4 cup parmesan, grated
1/3 cup cream cheese
2/3 cup heavy cream
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp butter
Steps:
Cook shrimp in butter with garlic until fragrant.
Spread spinach in a baking dish and layer shrimp.
Whisk cream cheese, heavy cream, and parmesan, then pour over.
Cover with mozzarella and bake at 190°C for 18 minutes.
Serve hot with crusty bread!
#SeafoodComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect bake every time. First, preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. They will finish cooking in the oven. In your baking dish, create an even layer of fresh spinach. Arrange the par-cooked shrimp evenly over the spinach. In a medium bowl, vigorously whisk the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and grated parmesan until you have a smooth, lump-free sauce. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the shrimp and spinach. Finally, top everything with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy bake is a complete meal but pairs wonderfully with sides to balance its decadence. Serve it piping hot directly from the dish. Crusty bread or garlic bread is essential for soaking up every bit of the delicious sauce. For a lighter accompaniment, a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. It also works wonderfully served over a bed of cooked pasta, rice, or cauliflower rice to make it more substantial.
How-to Summary
Sauté shrimp with garlic. Layer spinach and shrimp in a dish. Whisk cream cheese, heavy cream, and parmesan into a sauce and pour over the top. Cover with mozzarella and bake at 190°C for 18 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, ensure they are fully thawed, peeled, and patted very dry to avoid excess water in the bake.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can assemble the dish up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? Half-and-half is a suitable substitute, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. Avoid milk as it may curdle.
How do I know when the bake is done? It’s ready when the sauce is bubbling vigorously around the edges and the mozzarella topping is golden brown.
Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely. Sliced mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts would be excellent additions. Sauté them with the garlic before adding the shrimp.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp initially: Sauté them just until pink, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Using cold cream cheese: Ensure it is at room temperature to blend smoothly into the sauce without lumps.
- Not drying the shrimp and spinach: Excess moisture will make the sauce watery. Pat shrimp dry and use fresh, not frozen, spinach.
- Underseasoning: The cheeses provide salt, but always taste and season the sauce with salt and pepper before baking.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Shrimp and Spinach Bake is the ultimate proof that impressive, comforting meals don’t require complex techniques. With its luxurious, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked seafood, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels special enough for a dinner party yet simple enough for a weeknight. Mastering the few key steps—properly pre-cooking the shrimp and creating a smooth sauce—ensures a flawless result every time. Gather your ingredients, follow this guide, and get ready to enjoy a truly delicious taste of seafood comfort food.
