Creamy Garlic Scallops & Shrimp Gratin
A rich, cheesy seafood bake with tender scallops, juicy shrimp, and a silky garlic cream sauce. Elegant enough for special occasions, yet simple enough for a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
For the Seafood
1 lb (450 g) sea scallops, patted dry
1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
For the Cream Sauce
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream
½ cup (120 ml) seafood or chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
For the Topping
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
Season the seafood with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Sear the scallops and shrimp in 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat for about 1 minute per side. Add the garlic during the last 30 seconds. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Make the sauce: Melt 2 tablespoons butter in the same skillet. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the broth and heavy cream until smooth. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in the Parmesan, Gruyère (or mozzarella), Dijon mustard, parsley, and cayenne. Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Arrange the scallops and shrimp in the prepared baking dish. Pour the cream sauce evenly over the seafood.
Mix the panko, melted butter, Parmesan, and parsley. Sprinkle over the top.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
Let the gratin rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty garlic bread, buttered pasta, fluffy rice, or roasted asparagus. A squeeze of fresh lemon over the top adds a bright, refreshing finish.
Chef’s Tips
Pat the scallops dry for a beautiful golden sear.
Avoid overcooking the seafood before baking—it will finish cooking in the oven.
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and texture.
Broil for the last 2 minutes for an irresistibly crispy, golden topping.
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender seafood, this Scallops & Shrimp Gratin is the ultimate comfort-food dinner that’s guaranteed to impress!
