As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of garlic sizzling in butter enveloped me, transporting me straight to a cozy French bistro. This moment inspired the creation of my Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin—a delightful dish that combines the creamy richness we crave with the health-conscious benefits of a low-carb lifestyle. With just three net carbs per serving, this recipe is perfect for anyone seeking a wholesome yet indulgent meal. Imagine perfectly seared shrimp basking in a velvety garlic cream sauce, inviting everyone to gather at the table. Easy to prepare and freezable for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser that will keep you coming back for more. Ready to dive into a comforting seafood delight that won’t derail your dietary goals? Let’s get cooking!

Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try?

Deliciously Indulgent: The combination of rich cream and savory cheese elevates the ordinary to extraordinary. Versatile Option: Perfect as an appetizer or a hearty main dish, you can easily adapt it for your family’s taste! Quick Preparation: With simple steps, this dish comes together in no time—ideal for busy weeknights. Low-Carb Delight: At just 3 net carbs per serving, it’s guilt-free indulgence that fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle. Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch ahead and surprise your friends with a gourmet meal anytime! For more low-carb inspiration, check out my Garlic Butter Steak or try some delightful Honey Garlic Tofu.

Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin Ingredients

For the Shrimp
• Large Shrimp – Fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp enhance the dish’s flavor, making it the star of your keto shrimp au gratin.
• Olive Oil – This cooking fat not only helps to sear the shrimp perfectly but also adds a hint of richness.

For the Cream Sauce
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for bringing out the natural flavors—season generously!
• Butter – Richness and flavor enhancer; ghee can be a great dairy-free substitute.
• Onion – Aromatic and flavorful; shallots can be used instead for a milder taste.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic is a must for that aromatic base—avoid powdered garlic for better flavor!
• Fresh Basil – Adds a burst of freshness to the cream sauce; dried basil works in a pinch.
• Ground Nutmeg – A small dash adds warmth and depth to the sauce.

For the Creamy Cheesy Layer
• Heavy Whipping Cream – The base for your luxurious cream sauce, providing richness; full-fat coconut milk can replace it for a dairy-free option.
• Parmesan Cheese – A key player for flavor and creaminess; Pecorino Romano can also be used.
• Monterey Jack Cheese – Its meltability is perfect for that gooey texture; cheddar is a solid substitute.

For the Crunchy Topping
• Crushed Pork Rind Crumbs – These low-carb crumbs replace traditional breadcrumbs, adding a delightful crunch to your dish.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, prepare a large baking dish by generously buttering the bottom and sides to prevent sticking. This step ensures your Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin will have a beautiful golden crust when baked, so be ready for that deliciously bubbling topping!

Step 2: Sear Shrimp
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and let it heat. Season your fresh shrimp with salt and pepper, then place them in the hot skillet, allowing them to sear for about 2-3 minutes until they turn a vibrant pink and are slightly opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside, ensuring they’re perfectly tender for your gratin.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Using the same skillet, melt a couple of tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Next, stir in minced garlic, fresh basil, and a pinch of ground nutmeg. Cook this aromatic mixture for about 30 seconds until fragrant, creating a delightful base for your creamy sauce.

Step 4: Make Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy whipping cream and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow it to bubble softly for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in half of the parmesan cheese and the Monterey Jack cheese, mixing continuously until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning, ensuring your Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin is flavorful and rich.

Step 5: Assemble Dish
Now it’s time to bring your dish together! Distribute the seared shrimp evenly in your prepared baking dish. Carefully pour the velvety cream sauce over the shrimp, ensuring they’re nestled in that luxurious goodness. This creates a delightful layers of flavors that will be irresistible once baked.

Step 6: Add Topping
In a small bowl, combine the remaining parmesan cheese with crushed pork rind crumbs. This low-carb topping adds a satisfying crunch to your dish. Sprinkle the mixture generously over the cream sauce-covered shrimp, allowing the topping to form a delectable crust while baking.

Step 7: Bake
Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it, watching for the topping to turn golden brown and the sauce to bubble gently around the edges. This final step ensures your Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin is perfectly cooked, inviting you with scrumptious aromas as it comes out of the oven.

What to Serve with Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin?

For a memorable dining experience, consider these complementary dishes that will elevate your meal while enhancing the flavors of this rich and creamy shrimp delight.

Zucchini Noodles: Light and fresh, zucchini noodles provide a crisp contrast to the creamy sauce, making this meal feel even more indulgent. Enjoy a delightful balance of textures with each bite.
Garlic Butter Asparagus: Sautéed in fragrant garlic and rich butter, these tender asparagus spears add a vibrant green touch, enhancing the overall visual appeal and bringing a delicious savory balance to the meal.
Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb alternative has a fluffy texture that absorbs the luscious cream sauce beautifully, ensuring that no flavor goes to waste. Sprinkle with fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor.
Simple Green Salad: Tossed greens with a tangy vinaigrette can brighten the palate and provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the au gratin. Include textures like nuts or seeds for added crunch.
Crusty Low-Carb Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce, a slice of homemade or store-bought low-carb bread adds a satisfying bite that guests will love. It’s the ultimate comforting addition to your meal.
Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: Both wines offer refreshing acidity that cuts through the richness of the shrimp dish, complementing its flavors without overpowering them. Serve chilled for an elegant touch.
Lemon Sorbet: This light and refreshing dessert cleanses the palate after the meal, offering a sweet ending that feels indulgent without the guilt. Pair it with fresh berries for a beautiful finish.

Expert Tips for Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin

Choose Quality Shrimp: Fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp are key; avoid frozen varieties that can compromise the dish’s flavor and texture.
Mind the Cooking Time: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp while searing; they should be just opaque, as they will finish cooking in the oven.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Opt for fresh garlic and basil over dried; they offer a more vibrant flavor that enhances your keto shrimp au gratin.
Check the Cream Sauce: Stir your cream sauce often while simmering, ensuring an even consistency and preventing it from sticking or burning.
Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance. Just assemble it and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake for a quick weeknight dinner.

Make Ahead Options

These Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the cream sauce and sauté the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container. To maintain optimal quality and flavor, store the shrimp separately from the sauce to prevent overcooking. When you’re ready to serve, just assemble the dish by nestled the shrimp in a baking dish, pour the cream sauce over them, add the crunchy topping, and bake until golden and bubbly—about 25 minutes. This way, you’ll have a delicious, low-carb meal with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin

Fridge: Store leftover keto garlic shrimp au gratin in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. To do so, place it in a freezer-safe container; allow it to cool completely before transferring.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes, to preserve the creaminess.

Avoid Temperature Fluctuations: To maintain the dish’s texture and flavor, avoid repeatedly warming and cooling the keto garlic shrimp au gratin.

Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin Variations

Feel free to infuse your personality into this dish with these delightful twists!

Seafood Swap: Replace large shrimp with scallops or a firm white fish like cod for a different seafood delight. Each protein brings its own unique flavor and texture, creating a fresh experience every time!
Veggie Boost: Add sautéed spinach or zucchini to the dish for extra nutrition and vibrant color. This variation not only elevates the flavors but also brings a visual feast to your table!
Low-Carb Noodles: Incorporate a layer of Shirataki spaghetti or zucchini noodles for a heartier meal. These add volume without the carbs, making your gratin even more satisfying.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the cream sauce for some heat. This playful variation will wake up your taste buds and give the dish an exciting twist!
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute heavy whipping cream with full-fat coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free alternative. Infusing a hint of coconut will provide a subtle tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with shrimp.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs like dill, thyme, or parsley to switch things up. Each herb complements the dish uniquely, adding layers of flavor that can transport it to a whole new culinary adventure.
Nutty Crunch: Use almond flour or crushed walnuts in place of pork rind crumbs for a nutty topping. This change gives your gratin an appealing crunch while staying true to the low-carb lifestyle.

For more tempting recipes, don’t miss my delightful Roasted Garlic Tomato soup or indulge in some savory Shrimp Balls Savory.

Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin Recipe FAQs

What kind of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely, I recommend using fresh, large shrimp that are peeled and deveined for the best flavor. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, you can use frozen-just ensure they are thawed completely to avoid excess water in the dish.

How should I store leftovers of the Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin?
To enjoy your dish later, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing the container to help maintain its freshness and avoid sogginess.

Can I freeze Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin?
Yes, you certainly can! Freeze your Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure it’s cooled completely before freezing. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated thoroughly.

What should I do if the cream sauce is too thin?
If your cream sauce turns out too thin, don’t worry! Simply simmer it a bit longer on low heat to thicken it up. Stir continuously to avoid burning. You can also add a small amount of shredded cheese, which will help thicken the sauce and enhance its creaminess.

Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Yes! This Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin is naturally gluten-free as it uses crushed pork rinds for the topping instead of breadcrumbs. If you’re concerned about other allergies, make sure to check the labels on your cheese and cream, as some brands may have additives. Always opt for fresh herbs and ensure your shrimp are sourced responsibly.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?
The more the merrier! You can definitely incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini into your Keto Garlic Shrimp Au Gratin. Just sauté them along with the aromatics, and they will add both flavor and nutrition, making the dish even more satisfying.