Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese

Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese is an indulgent, flavor-loaded twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Juicy, garlicky shrimp are tucked between layers of melted cheese and buttery garlic bread for a gooey, crispy, seafood-packed masterpiece. It’s the kind of comfort food I crave when I want something rich, satisfying, and a little bit over the top—in the best way possible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this grilled cheese because it combines three things I’m obsessed with: garlic bread, shrimp, and melted cheese. Every bite has that perfect mix of crunch, creaminess, and savory flavor. It’s fast to make, feels indulgent, and is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a late-night bite. Plus, I don’t need a lot of ingredients or prep—just bold flavors layered between slices of golden, buttery bread.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked shrimp (peeled, deveined, and chopped)

• Sourdough, Italian, or thick sandwich bread

• Shredded mozzarella cheese

• Shredded cheddar cheese

• Garlic, minced

• Butter (softened)

• Fresh parsley or dried Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper

• Olive oil (for sautéing shrimp, if needed)

Directions

1. I start by mixing softened butter with minced garlic and a sprinkle of parsley or Italian seasoning to make garlic butter.

2. I spread the garlic butter on one side of each bread slice.

3. In a skillet, I sauté the chopped shrimp in a little olive oil with salt, pepper, and an extra pinch of garlic until just pink and cooked through. I set them aside.

4. I heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.

5. I place one slice of bread, buttered side down, in the pan. I top it with a layer of mozzarella, a layer of shrimp, and then cheddar cheese. I add the second slice of bread on top, buttered side up.

6. I cook the sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.

7. I let it rest for a minute before slicing so all that cheesy goodness doesn’t spill out.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 hearty sandwiches. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook, so I can have it ready in 20 minutes total.

Variations

Sometimes I add a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the shrimp for a spicy kick. I’ve also tried it with Swiss or provolone cheese for a different flavor profile. If I’m feeling extra indulgent, I use garlic Texas toast instead of regular bread for an even more decadent crunch.

storage/reheating

These sandwiches are best eaten fresh, but if I do have leftovers, I wrap them in foil and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I pop them in a skillet or toaster oven to bring back the crispiness. I avoid microwaving so the bread doesn’t get soggy.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes. I just make sure to warm them through with garlic and seasoning before adding them to the sandwich for flavor.

What’s the best cheese to use?

I like a blend of mozzarella for meltiness and cheddar for sharp flavor. Pepper jack or provolone also work great.

Can I make this in the oven?

Yes. I bake it at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely. I thaw, drain, and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the sandwich.

What sides go well with this?

I usually serve it with tomato soup, a crisp salad, or some crunchy chips for a classic combo.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Bread Shrimp Grilled Cheese is everything I want in a sandwich—crispy, melty, savory, and totally satisfying. It’s a fun upgrade from regular grilled cheese and perfect when I’m in the mood for something bold and comforting. Once I make it, it’s hard to go back to the plain version.