Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Toasts

Overview

• Dish type: Baked appetizer / snack

• Flavor profile: Savory, buttery, garlicky, cheesy

• Texture: Crispy bread, juicy shrimp, melted cheese

• Difficulty: Easy

• Cooking method: Pan-sear + oven bake

---

Yield

8 shrimp toasts (serves 2–3)

---

Ingredients (Exact Measurements)

For the Shrimp

• 250 g raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon paprika (or chili powder for heat)

For the Garlic Butter

• 40 g unsalted butter, softened

• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Toast

• 1 small baguette or sourdough loaf

• 150 g mozzarella cheese, shredded

• Extra black pepper, to taste

• Extra chopped parsley, for garnish

---

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

• Slice the baguette into 1.5–2 cm thick pieces.

• Lightly toast the slices in a pan or oven until just crisp on the surface.

• Set aside.

---

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

• In a bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, and salt.

• Stir until fully combined.

• Spread a thin, even layer of garlic butter on each toast slice.

---

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

• Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika.

• Sear shrimp for 1–1.5 minutes per side until just cooked and lightly golden.

• Remove from heat immediately to avoid overcooking.

---

Step 4: Assemble the Toasts

• Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella over each garlic-buttered toast.

• Place one shrimp on top of each slice, pressing gently into the cheese.

• Add a light crack of black pepper.

---

Step 5: Bake

• Preheat oven to 190°C / 375°F.

• Place toasts on a lined baking tray.

• Bake for 8–10 minutes, until cheese is fully melted and bubbling.

• Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes to brown the cheese.

---

Finishing

• Remove from oven and let rest for 1–2 minutes.

• Sprinkle with fresh parsley.

• Serve hot.

---

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as an appetizer, party snack, or brunch dish.

• Pairs well with:

  • Fresh salad

  • Tomato soup

  • Sparkling water or white wine

---

Pro Tips

• Do not overcook shrimp before baking—they finish cooking in the oven.

• Use low-moisture mozzarella for better melt and browning.

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the garlic butter.

---

Variations

• Spicy version: Add chili flakes or cayenne to shrimp seasoning

• Creamy version: Mix mozzarella with a little cream cheese

• Luxury version: Replace mozzarella with Gruyère or fontina