There’s something irresistible about a Shrimp Melt Sandwich that combines tender shrimp with gooey melted cheese and toasted bread. This sandwich brings together fresh seafood flavors and rich, savory goodness in every bite. Whether you’re craving a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, it’s a delicious option that’s easy to make and sure to impress.
Originating from coastal kitchens where seafood is a staple, the shrimp melt has become a favorite comfort food for many. We love how simple ingredients come together to create a flavorful and hearty meal that feels both indulgent and fresh. Let’s dive into this recipe that’s perfect for shrimp lovers looking to elevate their sandwich game.
Ingredients
To create our flavorful Shrimp Melt Sandwich, we carefully select fresh and complementary ingredients. Below, you’ll find everything you need for the shrimp filling as well as the sandwich assembly.
For the Shrimp Filling
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For the Sandwich Assembly
- 8 slices of sourdough bread (thick cut for perfect toasting)
- 8 slices sharp cheddar cheese (or your preferred meltable cheese)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened (for grilling bread)
- Lettuce leaves, optional for extra crunch
- Pickle slices, optional for tangy contrast
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp | 1 pound | Peeled and deveined |
| Unsalted Butter | 4 tablespoons | 2 for shrimp, 2 for grilling |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup | Creamy base for shrimp filling |
| Dijon Mustard | 1 tablespoon | Adds subtle tang |
| Smoked Paprika | 1 teaspoon | For warm smoky flavor |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon | Freshly squeezed |
| Salt and Black Pepper | To taste | Season shrimp filling |
| Celery | 1/4 cup | Finely chopped for crunch |
| Fresh Parsley | 2 tablespoons | Adds freshness |
| Sourdough Bread | 8 slices | Thick cut for ideal crunch |
| Sharp Cheddar Cheese | 8 slices | Melts beautifully |
| Butter (softened) | 2 tablespoons | For grilling bread |
| Lettuce | Optional | Adds crisp texture |
| Pickle Slices | Optional | For tangy contrast |
Equipment Needed
To craft the perfect Shrimp Melt Sandwich, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool plays a key role in ensuring the shrimp filling is succulent, the cheese melts evenly, and the bread achieves a golden crisp.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Skillet or Nonstick Pan
We use this to sauté the shrimp and garlic in butter evenly, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully without sticking.
- Mixing Bowl
For combining the shrimp with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and lemon juice, a medium-sized bowl allows thorough mixing without mess.
- Spatula
A sturdy spatula helps us fold ingredients delicately and assists in flipping the sandwich while toasting.
- Knife and Cutting Board
For chopping celery and fresh parsley finely, as well as slicing thick-cut sourdough bread precisely.
- Grater
To shred sharp cheddar cheese freshly, which enhances melting and flavor distribution.
- Toaster or Grill Pan
Either a toaster oven or grill pan works perfectly for toasting the sandwich to a crisp golden brown with gooey melted cheese.
Optional but Helpful Equipment
- Food Thermometer
To check shrimp doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of about 145°F ensures tender, safe-to-eat seafood.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
Precision in flavor balancing is easier with these tools when handling spices and liquids like lemon juice.
Equipment Summary Table
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skillet/Nonstick Pan | Sauté shrimp and garlic | Medium heat for tender shrimp |
| Mixing Bowl | Combine shrimp with sauce ingredients | Medium-sized preferred |
| Spatula | Stir and flip the sandwich | Heat-resistant and flexible |
| Knife & Cutting Board | Chop vegetables and slice bread | Sharp knife for clean cuts |
| Grater | Shred sharp cheddar cheese | Freshly shredded melts better |
| Toaster/Grill Pan | Toast and melt sandwich | Grill pan adds nice char marks |
| Food Thermometer | Verify shrimp cooking temperature | Optional but recommended |
| Measuring Spoons/Cups | Accurate seasoning and liquid measuring | Improves recipe consistency |
Having these tools at hand will streamline the process of assembling our shrimp melt sandwich, giving us consistently delicious results every time.
Prep Work
Before we start assembling our Shrimp Melt Sandwich, proper prep work is essential to ensure every component shines. Let’s dive into the key steps to get our shrimp, bread, and other ingredients ready.
Preparing the Shrimp
To bring out the best flavors in our shrimp melt, we need to prepare the shrimp carefully:
- Peel and devein 1 pound of large shrimp, leaving the tails off for easy eating.
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly using paper towels. This step helps achieve a perfect sear.
- Mince 2 cloves of garlic finely; this will infuse the shrimp with aromatic richness.
- Chop 2 stalks of celery and 1/4 cup of fresh parsley finely for crunch and freshness.
- In a bowl, combine the shrimp with:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
We will sauté the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat, cooking each side for about 2 minutes until opaque and pink. The shrimp should remain tender and juicy.
Preparing the Bread and Other Ingredients
Our sandwich base deserves just as much attention. Here’s how to prep the bread and accompaniments:
- Select thick-cut sourdough bread slices, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Lightly brush each slice with melted butter on both sides for a golden crispy finish.
- Grate sharp cheddar cheese generously — you’ll need about 4 ounces for two sandwiches.
- Optional but recommended: prepare crisp lettuce leaves and thin pickle slices for added texture and tang.
| Ingredient | Prep Details |
|---|---|
| Sourdough Bread | Slice 1/2 inch thick, buttered |
| Sharp Cheddar | Grate fresh, 4 oz per 2 portions |
| Lettuce | Wash, dry, separate leaves |
| Pickles | Slice thinly |
Having everything prepped sets us up for a smooth, enjoyable cooking process and ensures that our Shrimp Melt Sandwich delivers on taste and texture beautifully.
Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to create a perfect Shrimp Melt Sandwich that balances tender shrimp, melted cheese, and crisp toasted bread. Each process enhances the flavors and textures for an unforgettable seafood sandwich experience.
Cooking the Shrimp Filling
- Preheat a skillet or nonstick pan over medium heat.
- Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and allow it to melt completely.
- Stir in 2 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the peeled and deveined 1 pound of large shrimp to the pan in a single layer.
- Season with 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Remove shrimp from heat; let them cool slightly.
- Chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces.
- In a mixing bowl combine:
- Chopped shrimp
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ⅓ cup finely chopped celery
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Mix until evenly combined for the creamy, flavorful shrimp filling. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Tip: Avoid overcooking the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy in the sandwich.
Assembling the Shrimp Melt Sandwich
- Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Brush 4 slices of thick-cut sourdough bread with melted butter on both sides.
- Place two slices of bread butter-side-down on the pan.
- Spread a generous amount of the shrimp filling evenly over the bread.
- Top the shrimp filling with 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
- Optionally add lettuce leaves and pickle slices for crunch and tang.
- Cover with the remaining slices of bread butter-side-up.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes per side pressing gently with a spatula until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the pan and let rest for 1 minute before slicing.
| Step | Description | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat pan | Medium heat | 2 minutes |
| Cook shrimp | Sauté in butter and garlic | 4-6 minutes |
| Mix filling | Combine all filling ingredients | 2 minutes |
| Toast sandwich | Grill with filling and cheese | 6-8 minutes (3-4 min/side) |
| Rest & Slice | Let sandwich rest before cutting | 1 minute |
Directions for Serving
To serve our Shrimp Melt Sandwich at its best, we follow a few key steps that bring out the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
1. Rest the Sandwich Briefly
Once grilled, let the sandwich rest on a cutting board for about 2 minutes. This pause allows the melted cheddar to set slightly, preventing the filling from spilling out as we cut.
2. Slice with Care
Use a sharp knife to cut the sandwich diagonally. This classic presentation not only looks inviting but also makes it easier to hold. Each half reveals the golden toasted sourdough embracing the creamy shrimp filling.
3. Add Fresh Garnishes (Optional)
For added crunch and a burst of color, place a few crisp lettuce leaves and tangy pickle slices on the side or inside the sandwich. These contrast beautifully with the rich, buttery shrimp melt.
4. Pair with Complementary Sides
Our shrimp melt shines alongside simple sides. Consider serving with:
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Garden Salad | Light mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette to freshen the palate. |
| Crispy French Fries | Classic and crunchy for a satisfying texture contrast. |
| Pickle Spears | Adds an extra tangy bite enhancing the seafood flavors. |
5. Beverage Suggestions
We recommend a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp lager beer to complement the smoky paprika and creamy mayo in the sandwich.
Serving Tip: Place your sandwich on a warm plate to keep it cozy while serving to the table.
“Serving the shrimp melt warm and with balanced accompaniments ensures every bite is a deliciously rich and refreshing experience.”
Following these steps will elevate our Shrimp Melt Sandwich from a hearty meal to a memorable seafood delight.
Make-Ahead Tips and Storage
To enjoy the Shrimp Melt Sandwich at its best, planning ahead can save us valuable time without sacrificing flavor or freshness. Here’s how to handle make-ahead prep and storage with confidence.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepare the shrimp filling in advance. After sautéing and mixing the shrimp with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, celery, and parsley, store it in an airtight container. This filling keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Slice and prep the bread and cheese the night before. Keep the bread in a sealed bag or container at room temperature to maintain its texture. Cheese can be lightly covered and refrigerated.
- Make the optional toppings, such as chopped lettuce or pickle slices, beforehand and keep them chilled separately to preserve their crunch.
Pro tip: We recommend assembling the sandwiches just before grilling to prevent sogginess and to ensure the bread crisps perfectly.
Storage Guidelines
| Item | Storage Method | Maximum Storage Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shrimp filling | Airtight container, fridge | 24 hours | Stir before using to redistribute flavors |
| Sourdough bread | Sealed bag, room temperature | 2 days | Avoid refrigeration to prevent drying |
| Cheese (grated/sliced) | Wrapped, refrigerator | 3-5 days | Keep tightly wrapped to avoid flavor loss |
| Prepared sandwich (assembled, ungrilled) | Wrapped tightly, refrigerator | 12 hours | Grill immediately after removing from fridge |
Reheating and Serving
When ready to serve, we recommend:
- Grilling the sandwich fresh for optimal texture and melty cheese.
- If reheating an already grilled sandwich, wrap it in foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes, checking to avoid drying out.
- Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread chewy and the shrimp rubbery.
Important Reminders
- Always check the shrimp filling for freshness before use especially if storing overnight.
- Keep shrimp filling chilled at all times to prevent food safety issues.
- Assemble sandwiches just before grilling to maintain that perfect bite of crispy bread and gooey cheese.
By following these expert Make-Ahead Tips and Storage practices, we can prepare our delicious Shrimp Melt Sandwich efficiently while preserving every bit of its fresh and rich flavor.
Conclusion
Crafting the perfect Shrimp Melt Sandwich is all about balancing fresh ingredients with simple techniques. With the right prep and attention to detail, we can enjoy a flavorful seafood meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner, this recipe brings coastal charm right to our kitchen.
By following these steps, we ensure every bite delivers that ideal mix of tender shrimp, melted cheese, and crispy bread. It’s a delicious way to elevate our sandwich game and impress anyone at the table. Let’s get cooking and savor the rich taste of this timeless favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Shrimp Melt Sandwich so special?
The Shrimp Melt Sandwich combines tender shrimp, melted sharp cheddar cheese, and toasted sourdough bread to deliver a rich, fresh seafood flavor and satisfying texture, making it a beloved comfort food.
What ingredients do I need to make a Shrimp Melt Sandwich?
You’ll need large shrimp, unsalted butter, garlic, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, lemon juice, celery, parsley, thick-cut sourdough bread, sharp cheddar cheese, and optional additions like lettuce and pickles.
What equipment is essential for preparing this sandwich?
Key tools include a skillet or nonstick pan, mixing bowl, spatula, knife, cutting board, cheese grater, and a toaster or grill pan for crispy bread and melted cheese.
How do I prepare the shrimp for the sandwich filling?
Peel and devein shrimp, rinse, dry, then sauté them in butter and garlic with smoked paprika, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper before mixing with mayo, celery, and parsley.
What is the best way to cook and assemble the sandwich?
Grill the sandwich until the bread is golden and cheese melts, avoiding overcooking shrimp. Rest the sandwich before slicing diagonally for the best presentation and texture.
Can I add extras to my Shrimp Melt Sandwich?
Yes, adding lettuce and pickle slices offers extra crunch and tang, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the sandwich.
How should I serve the Shrimp Melt Sandwich?
Serve it with sides like garden salad, French fries, or pickle spears. Pair with chilled white wine or lager beer for a complete and refreshing meal.
Can I prepare the shrimp filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the shrimp filling up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container. Assemble the sandwich just before grilling to keep it fresh and prevent sogginess.
How do I store leftovers and reheat the sandwich?
Store shrimp filling, bread, and cheese separately in airtight containers. Reheat the assembled sandwich in a skillet or oven to retain crispiness without drying out the shrimp.
Where did the Shrimp Melt Sandwich originate?
The sandwich has coastal kitchen roots and is celebrated as a comforting seafood dish enjoyed in many coastal regions for its fresh and rich flavors.