Cheesy Garlic Bread Prawn Grilled Cheese: A Decadent Coastal Twist 🦐🧀🥪
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this Cheesy Garlic Bread Prawn Grilled Cheese sandwich! This irresistible creation combines the buttery, aromatic crunch of homemade garlic bread, a luscious cascade of melted cheeses, and the tender, smoky sweetness of perfectly seasoned prawns. It’s a bold, flavorful twist on the classic grilled cheese that’s perfect for cozy dinners, weekend brunches, or impressing guests with a gourmet treat. Dive into this mouthwatering fusion of land and sea, where every bite bursts with garlicky, cheesy, and oceanic goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This sandwich elevates the humble grilled cheese to new heights by incorporating:
- Crispy Garlic Bread: Infused with a fragrant blend of garlic, herbs, and butter for a toasty, flavorful base.
- Juicy Prawns: Lightly spiced and pan-seared to succulent perfection, adding a touch of coastal flair.
- Gooey Cheese Blend: A melty combination of cheeses that ties together the rich flavors in every bite.
- Versatile Appeal: Ideal for quick weeknight meals, special occasions, or a luxurious lunch.
Whether you’re a seafood lover or a grilled cheese enthusiast, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and leave you hungry for more!
Ingredients
For the Garlic Bread:
- 1 large loaf of French or Italian bread, halved lengthwise
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic paste for a smoother texture)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- Pinch of red chili flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
For the Prawns:
- 500g (1 lb) large prawns, peeled, deveined, and tails removed
- 1½ tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for extra depth)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
- Juice of half a lemon (for a zesty finish)
For the Grilled Cheese:
- 8–10 slices of cheese (choose a melty mix like sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or Gouda)
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese (for extra stretchy texture)
- 2–3 tablespoons unsalted butter, for grilling
- Optional: 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese for a crispy, savory crust
Yield: 2–4 servings (depending on sandwich size)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Craft the Garlic Bread Base
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 190°C (375°F) and position a rack in the middle. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Make the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, thyme, salt, and chili flakes (if using). Mash with a fork or spatula until the mixture is smooth and aromatic.
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the French or Italian loaf in half lengthwise to create two long pieces. Generously spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of each half, ensuring an even coating from edge to edge.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the buttered bread halves on the prepared baking sheet, cut side up. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and slightly crispy, and the butter has melted into the bread. For an extra crunch, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end (watch closely to avoid burning). Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
Pro Tip: If you prefer softer garlic bread, wrap the loaf halves in foil before baking to trap steam and keep the bread tender.
Step 2: Sear the Prawns
- Season the Prawns: In a medium bowl, toss the prawns with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper. Ensure each prawn is evenly coated with the spice blend.
- Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil if needed. Allow the pan to heat until it shimmers slightly.
- Cook the Prawns: Add the prawns to the hot skillet in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side, or until the prawns turn pink, opaque, and slightly golden. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the prawns for a bright, tangy finish. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Pro Tip: Avoid overcooking the prawns to keep them tender and juicy. They should curl into a loose “C” shape when done—overcooked prawns form a tight “O.”
Step 3: Assemble the Grilled Cheese
- Set Up the Pan: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. For a non-stick surface, lightly grease the pan with a small pat of butter.
- Build the Sandwich: Take one garlic bread half and place it buttered side down in the skillet. Layer 4–5 slices of your chosen cheese (e.g., cheddar and Gouda for a bold flavor) over the bread, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle a handful of shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra meltiness. Arrange a generous portion of cooked prawns evenly over the cheese. Top with the second garlic bread half, buttered side up.
- Optional Crust Enhancement: For a gourmet touch, sprinkle a pinch of grated Parmesan on the outer buttered sides of the bread before grilling. This creates a crispy, cheesy crust.
Step 4: Grill to Golden Perfection
- Cook the Sandwich: Grill the sandwich for 3–4 minutes on the first side, pressing gently with a spatula to help the cheese melt. Carefully flip the sandwich using a wide spatula and grill for another 2–3 minutes, or until the bread is deeply golden and the cheese is oozing.
- Check the Melt: If the cheese hasn’t fully melted, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid for 1–2 minutes to trap heat and encourage melting without burning the bread.
- Repeat for Additional Sandwiches: If making multiple sandwiches, repeat the process, wiping the skillet clean between batches to prevent burning.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
- Slice and Plate: Transfer the grilled sandwich to a cutting board and let it rest for 1 minute (this helps the cheese set slightly for cleaner slices). Use a serrated knife to cut the sandwich into thick slices or wedges.
- Garnish and Pair: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick. Serve immediately with classic sides like tomato soup, a crisp green salad, or crispy fries. For a coastal vibe, pair with a chilled glass of white wine or a citrusy iced tea.
Serving Suggestion: For a fun appetizer twist, cut the sandwich into bite-sized pieces and serve with a side of marinara or garlic aioli for dipping.
Tips for Success
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with cheese blends to suit your taste. Mozzarella adds stretchy texture, cheddar brings sharp tanginess, and Swiss offers a nutty depth. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible, as it contains anti-caking agents that can affect melt quality.
- Prawn Substitutes: If prawns aren’t available, try shrimp, scallops, or even flaked crab meat for a similar seafood flavor. For a vegetarian version, swap prawns for grilled mushrooms or zucchini.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the garlic bread and cook the prawns up to a day in advance. Store separately in the fridge, then assemble and grill when ready to serve.
- Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in a 160°C (325°F) oven to restore crispiness.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Cheesy Garlic Bread Prawn Grilled Cheese is more than just a sandwich—it’s a celebration of bold flavors and textures. The garlic bread provides a fragrant, crunchy foundation, while the prawns add a luxurious, protein-packed element that makes every bite feel indulgent. The melty cheese ties it all together, creating a harmonious balance of savory, buttery, and slightly sweet notes. Whether you’re treating yourself to a solo meal or sharing with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, Per Serving)
- Calories: 600–700 kcal (varies based on cheese and butter used)
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and depend on portion size and ingredient choices.
Explore More Coastal Comfort Recipes
If you loved this prawn-packed grilled cheese, check out our other seafood-inspired dishes:
- Creamy Lobster Mac and Cheese
- Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
- Garlic Butter Scallop Linguine
