Shrimp & Mushroom Vol-au-Vent in Creamy Garlic Sauce is a delightful dish that brings a touch of elegance to any meal. With buttery puff pastry filled with succulent shrimp and earthy mushrooms enveloped in a rich, creamy garlic sauce, it’s a pure indulgence! This recipe is perfect for special occasions, elegant dinner parties, or even as a comforting weeknight treat when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why you’ll love this dish
This dish stands out for several reasons. First off, it’s impressively quick to prepare, especially if you opt for pre-made puff pastry shells, allowing you to serve up gourmet flavors in no time. The creaminess of the garlic sauce combined with the freshness of the seafood and mushrooms creates a truly comforting yet sophisticated meal. Whether you’re throwing a dinner party or looking for a special dish to enjoy during a quiet night at home, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.
"This Shrimp & Mushroom Vol-au-Vent is the real deal! Flaky pastry, creamy filling—my family couldn’t get enough of it!" – Happy cook
Step-by-step overview
The preparation of Shrimp & Mushroom Vol-au-Vent in Creamy Garlic Sauce is straightforward and enjoyable. Here’s a concise overview of how the recipe unfolds:
- Bake the puff pastry shells until golden brown and flaky.
- Sauté the shrimp until pink, then remove from the pan.
- Cook mushrooms until nicely browned.
- Create the creamy garlic sauce using a roux and finish by returning the shrimp and mushrooms to the pan.
- Fill the baked pastry shells with the creamy mixture, garnish, and serve.
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Ingredients
To create this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 pre-made puff pastry shells (vol-au-vent)
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken or seafood broth
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1 egg (for egg wash if baking your own shells)
You can make substitutions, such as using vegetable broth for a lighter sauce or opting for different types of mushrooms based on your preference.
Directions
- Bake the Puff Pastry Shells: If using frozen pastry shells, follow the package directions to bake until they are golden and flaky.
- Sauté Shrimp & Mushrooms: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté shrimp until they turn pink, then remove them from the pan. Next, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until browned.
- Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In the same pan, sprinkle the flour over the remaining butter and stir to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and broth, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring It All Together: Return the shrimp and mushrooms to the pan, tossing gently to coat them in the sauce. Let everything simmer for 1-2 minutes.
- Fill & Garnish: Carefully spoon the luscious filling into the warm pastry shells. Garnish each with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Best ways to enjoy it
These adorable puff pastry shells are perfect on their own but can be enhanced with a side salad or some lightly sautéed greens. Enjoy them with a chilled glass of white wine or serve them as a starter before the main course. For a festive touch, consider serving them on a platter with additional garnishes like lemon wedges or extra herbs.
How to store
To store leftover shrimp and mushroom filling, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for 2-3 days when stored properly. Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if it seems thick. Note that the puff pastry shells will lose their crispness if stored, so it’s best to fill them just before serving.
Helpful cooking tips
- Quality Counts: Choose high-quality shrimp and fresh mushrooms for the best flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Roux: This step creates a smooth sauce and helps thicken it properly, preventing any chance of it being runny.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and just fill the puff pastry shells before serving to save time.
Creative twists
Feel free to get inventive! Try adding some fresh spinach for a pop of color and nutrition, or swap in crab meat for a luxurious twist. If you’re looking to spice things up, incorporate some red pepper flakes or a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Common questions
What’s the prep time for this recipe?
Total prep time is about 30 minutes, with baking and cooking time included.
Can I use homemade pastry instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Just ensure your homemade pastry is baked until golden and flaky.
What’s the best way to store any leftovers?
Store the filling in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge. For the pastry, it’s best enjoyed fresh, so fill them right before consumption for the best texture!
