Shrimp Monterey is a flavorful, cheesy seafood dish that combines tender, succulent shrimp with a rich Monterey Jack cheese sauce, garlic, and a touch of spice. This elegant dish is easy to prepare and offers a delicious balance of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors. Baked to perfection, the shrimp become infused with the melted cheese and fragrant spices, making it an ideal dish for a special dinner or a quick weeknight meal. Serve it with crusty bread, rice, or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce, and enjoy the comforting, rich flavors of this classic seafood favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or paprika (optional for heat)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté the Shrimp:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they start to turn pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the white wine or chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper or paprika. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Arrange the shrimp in a baking dish. Pour the sauce over the shrimp, then sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly on top. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Shrimp Monterey is a delightful seafood dish that blends the natural sweetness of shrimp with creamy, cheesy goodness. It’s an easy yet impressive dish, perfect for seafood lovers and special occasions alike!
