Garlic Shrimp Cheese Toast

Servings: 2–3
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: ~25 minutes

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Ingredients

For the shrimp

• 250 g (9 oz) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

• Salt, to taste

• Black pepper, to taste

• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and mild heat)

For the toast

• 4 slices crusty bread (baguette or sourdough works best)

• 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, provolone, or a mozzarella–cheddar mix)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or softened butter (for brushing bread)

For garnish

• Fresh parsley, finely chopped

• Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

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Instructions

1. Prepare the bread

• Preheat the oven to 200°C / 400°F or set the broiler on medium.

• Lightly brush both sides of the bread slices with olive oil or butter.

• Place the bread on a baking tray and toast for 3–4 minutes, just until lightly golden.
  This prevents soggy toast later.

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2. Cook the shrimp

• Heat a skillet over medium heat.

• Add butter and let it melt.

• Add minced garlic and sauté for 20–30 seconds until fragrant (do not brown).

• Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

• Cook shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through.

• Remove from heat immediately to avoid overcooking.

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3. Assemble the toast

• Place toasted bread slices back on the baking tray.

• Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese on each slice.

• Arrange shrimp evenly on top of the cheese.

• Add a little extra cheese over the shrimp for a melted, stretchy finish.

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4. Melt and finish

• Return the tray to the oven or under the broiler.

• Bake for 4–6 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and lightly bubbling.

• Watch closely to prevent burning.

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5. Garnish and serve

• Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with chopped parsley.

• Add red pepper flakes if desired.

• Serve hot while the cheese is still gooey.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve as an appetizer, brunch dish, or light dinner.

• Pair with a green salad or tomato soup.

• Best enjoyed fresh; reheating may reduce crispness.

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Tips for Best Results

• Use large shrimp so they stay juicy under heat.

• Pre-toasting the bread is essential for texture.

• For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice after baking.

• A mix of cheeses gives better melt and flavor depth.