Here is a Baked Spinach and Shrimp Gratin recipe with full detail and clear step-by-step directions. This dish is creamy, cheesy, and baked until golden—perfect as a main dish or elegant side.
Baked Spinach and Shrimp Gratin
Prep Time
20 minutes
Bake Time
25–30 minutes
Total Time
About 55 minutes
Servings
4
Ingredients
Shrimp
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1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon paprika
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1 tablespoon olive oil
Spinach
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10 oz (280 g) fresh spinach
(or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and well drained)
Creamy Sauce
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup milk
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional but recommended)
Cheese Topping
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ cup shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese
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¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for crispy top)
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Lightly grease a baking dish (9 × 9-inch or similar).
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Set aside.
Step 2: Season and Sauté Shrimp
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Pat shrimp dry.
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Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Add shrimp and cook 1–2 minutes per side, just until pink.
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Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Spinach
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In the same skillet, add spinach.
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Cook until wilted (about 2 minutes).
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If using frozen spinach, squeeze out all excess moisture.
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Set spinach aside.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
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Melt butter in the skillet over medium heat.
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Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Sprinkle in flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute.
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Slowly whisk in cream and milk.
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Cook, stirring, until thickened (3–4 minutes).
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Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Step 5: Assemble the Gratin
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Spread spinach evenly in the prepared baking dish.
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Arrange shrimp over the spinach.
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Pour cream sauce evenly over the top.
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Sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella evenly.
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Add breadcrumbs if using.
Step 6: Bake
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Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes.
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Top should be bubbling and lightly golden.
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Broil for 2–3 minutes if a deeper golden crust is desired.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
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Remove gratin from oven.
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Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with crusty bread
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Over rice or pasta
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Alongside roasted vegetables or salad
Tips for Best Results
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Do not overcook shrimp before baking.
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Drain spinach thoroughly to avoid watery gratin.
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Gruyère adds a richer, nutty flavor than mozzarella.
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Nutmeg enhances the creaminess without overpowering.
Optional Variations
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Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes
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Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce
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Make it spicy with red pepper flakes
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Add lemon zest for brightness