Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Bread Bowl!

Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Bread Bowl Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bread Bowl:

• 1 large round loaf of sourdough or Italian bread (use a sturdy bread that can hold the shrimp and cheese sauce)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp:

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque.

• Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the shrimp. Stir to coat the shrimp evenly with the seasoning. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then remove from heat. Set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce:

• In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

• Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux.

• Gradually add the heavy cream while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue cooking for about 3-4 minutes, until the sauce begins to thicken.

• Lower the heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

• Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of milk or cream.

3. Prepare the Bread Bowl:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Cut the top off the round loaf of bread and hollow out the inside, leaving about 1-inch of bread around the edges and bottom. You can save the bread you removed to make croutons or serve alongside the dish.

• Place the bread bowl on a baking sheet and toast it in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is slightly crispy and golden.

4. Assemble the Dish:

• Pour the cheese sauce into the hollowed-out bread bowl.

• Arrange the garlic shrimp on top of the cheese sauce, distributing them evenly across the bowl.

• Optionally, sprinkle with more fresh parsley for color and added flavor.

5. Serve:

• Serve the cheesy garlic shrimp bread bowl immediately. You can scoop the shrimp and cheese sauce with the bread pieces you removed from the bowl, or serve with additional crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Q&A Section:

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

• Yes, frozen shrimp work well! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Q2: How can I make this dish spicier?

• To add more heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the shrimp or cheese sauce. Alternatively, you can drizzle some hot sauce over the shrimp or add chopped fresh jalapeños to the sauce.

Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

• You can prep most of the components ahead of time. Cook the shrimp and make the cheese sauce, then store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat the shrimp and cheese sauce, then assemble the bread bowl just before serving.

Q4: Can I use a different type of cheese?

• Absolutely! If you want a different flavor, you can substitute the mozzarella with cheddar or Gruyère cheese. Just make sure the cheese melts smoothly for the best texture.

Q5: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

• Yes! You can substitute the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms, grilled veggies, or even a mix of spinach and artichokes for a delicious vegetarian version.

Serving Suggestions:

• Sides: Serve this with a fresh side salad or some roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the cheesy garlic shrimp.

• Drinks: Pair it with a crisp white wine, like a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing iced tea for a perfect meal.