Description
This Irresistibly Creamy Seafood Gratin is a comforting and elegant dish perfect for cozy nights. Featuring succulent shrimp and scallops simmered in a luscious heavy cream sauce, enhanced with garlic, onion, and white grape juice for a subtle sweetness. Topped with melty Gruyère cheese, this gratin offers a golden, bubbly finish that will satisfy seafood lovers seeking a rich and hearty meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 1 pound Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 pound Scallops (fresh or thawed frozen)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Butter (for sautéing)
- 1 medium Onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1/2 cup White Grape Juice (or substitute with white wine)
Topping and Seasoning
- 1 cup Grated Cheese (Gruyère or cheddar recommended)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare Seafood: Rinse the shrimp and scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Ensure shrimp are peeled and deveined to enhance taste and texture.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Cook Seafood: Add the shrimp and scallops to the skillet with the aromatics. Cook gently until the seafood just starts to turn opaque, approximately 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Add Liquid Ingredients: Pour in the heavy cream and white grape juice (or white wine). Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5-7 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly and the flavors meld.
- Season the Mixture: Season the gratin with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning carefully considering the saltiness of the cheese.
- Assemble the Gratin: Transfer the seafood and sauce mixture to a baking dish if your skillet is not oven safe. Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake the Gratin: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the assembled gratin for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the gratin from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the sauce thicken slightly and enhance the creamy texture.
Notes
- Use fresh or properly thawed seafood for the best texture and flavor.
- White grape juice is a mild alternative to white wine and adds subtle sweetness.
- Gruyère cheese melts beautifully and adds nutty flavor but cheddar can be used as a substitute.
- Adjust the seasoning at the end to ensure the dish is perfectly balanced.
- Serve with crusty bread or a light green salad for a complete meal.
