There’s something truly magical about making a stuffed shrimp recipe that fills my kitchen with delicious aromas and a sense of celebration! I love how easy this dish is to prepare, yet it always feels special—perfect for everything from casual weeknight dinners to fancy gatherings. The juicy shrimp stuffed with a savory mixture of crab and breadcrumbs is just heavenly. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to whip it up again and again. It’s not only a feast for the taste buds but also a delight to share with family and friends. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients for Stuffed Shrimp Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the most delicious stuffed shrimp! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined – Go for the biggest, juiciest shrimp you can find for that wow factor!
- 1 cup breadcrumbs – These will give the stuffing a lovely crunch. I like using seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra flavor boost!
- 1/2 cup cooked crab meat – Fresh is best, but if you can’t find it, canned works too. It adds that ocean-fresh taste!
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – This adds a touch of nuttiness and depth to the stuffing. Yum!
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley – Fresh parsley brightens everything up. Plus, it looks gorgeous!
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Because garlic makes everything better, right?
- 1/4 cup butter, melted – This is the secret to keeping your stuffing moist and flavorful.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season! It brings all the flavors together.
Make sure everything is fresh and ready to go, and we’ll get to making this delightful dish in no time!
How to Prepare Stuffed Shrimp Recipe
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into how to prepare these scrumptious stuffed shrimp! It’s a straightforward process, and I promise you’ll love the results.
Preheat the Oven
First things first, we need to preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that the shrimp cook evenly and get that lovely golden color. So, don’t skip this step—trust me, it makes a difference!
Prepare the Stuffing Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, crab meat, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, melted butter, salt, and pepper. I like to use my hands to mix everything together gently until it’s well combined. You want the mixture to be moist but still crumbly enough to hold its shape. If it feels too dry, just add a touch more melted butter!
Stuff the Shrimp
Now comes the fun part—stuffing the shrimp! Take each shrimp and gently open it up, being careful not to tear it. You want to stuff it with about a tablespoon of your delicious mixture. Don’t overstuff, though, or they might burst while baking. Just enough to fill them nicely will do the trick!
Bake the Stuffed Shrimp
Once all your shrimp are stuffed, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pop them in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through and the tops are nice and golden. You’ll know they’re done when they turn a lovely pink color, and the stuffing is lightly browned. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
Serve the Stuffed Shrimp
When they’re all done, take them out of the oven and let them rest for a minute. Arrange the stuffed shrimp on a beautiful platter and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for that extra zing. They’re perfect for sharing, or just keep them all to yourself—no judgment here!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional information for one serving of these delightful stuffed shrimp. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 20g
This stuffed shrimp recipe is not only delicious but also packs a good amount of protein while keeping it relatively low in fat. Perfect for a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down!
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Shrimp Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a stunning dish ready in about 35 minutes. Perfect for when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen!
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of succulent shrimp and a savory crab stuffing is absolutely mouthwatering. Each bite is a burst of flavor that will have everyone asking for more!
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a festive holiday gathering, or a fancy date night, these stuffed shrimp are always a hit. They look elegant on the table and taste even better!
- Customizable: Feel free to switch up the stuffing to match your taste! You can use different seafood or add spices to make it your own. The possibilities are endless!
- Low in Fat: This recipe is a great option if you’re watching your diet but still want to enjoy something indulgent. You get all the flavor without the guilt!
Tips for Success with Stuffed Shrimp Recipe
Now that you’re all set to make these delicious stuffed shrimp, let me share some of my top tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time. Trust me, a few little tricks can make a big difference!
- Choose the Right Shrimp: Go for large, fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If they’re slightly thawed, it’s easier to handle them. You can also ask your fishmonger for recommendations if you’re unsure!
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning in your stuffing. A little extra salt and pepper can elevate the flavors significantly. Taste the mixture before stuffing to make sure it’s just right!
- Be Gentle When Stuffing: When you’re stuffing the shrimp, be careful not to overstuff. A tablespoon of filling is usually perfect. This keeps them from bursting in the oven and ensures a lovely presentation.
- Check for Doneness: All ovens are different, so keep an eye on your shrimp as they bake. They’re done when they’re pink and opaque, and the stuffing is golden. If you’re not sure, a quick poke with a fork can help!
- Let Them Rest: After baking, let the stuffed shrimp sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and makes for a more succulent bite!
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving adds a pop of color and brightness to the dish. It’s all about those little finishing touches!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a stuffed shrimp master in no time! Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Serving Suggestions
Once you’ve made your delicious stuffed shrimp, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside them to create a complete meal. Here are some of my favorite pairing ideas that complement the flavors beautifully:
- Garlic Butter Pasta: A simple spaghetti tossed in garlic butter and a sprinkle of parsley is a fantastic side that’s easy to whip up. It’s light and won’t overpower the shrimp!
- Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that pairs perfectly with the rich stuffing.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini drizzled with olive oil and herbs make for a colorful and nutritious addition to your plate.
- Creamy Risotto: If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, a creamy lemon risotto is a wonderful choice. Its creamy texture complements the shrimp without stealing the spotlight.
- Lemon Garlic Aioli: For an extra flavor kick, serve your stuffed shrimp with a side of homemade lemon garlic aioli. It’s perfect for dipping and adds a lovely brightness!
These sides not only enhance the meal but also make your dining experience feel even more special. Mix and match to find your perfect combination, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this stuffed shrimp recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before peeling and deveining. Frozen shrimp can work just as well as fresh, but it’s essential to follow the thawing instructions for the best texture!
What can I substitute for crab meat?
If crab meat isn’t your thing or you can’t find it, feel free to use cooked lobster, shrimp, or even some sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. The stuffing will still be delicious with any of these options!
How can I make the stuffing spicier?
If you love a kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the stuffing mixture. It’ll give your stuffed shrimp a delightful heat that pairs beautifully with the seafood!
Can I prepare the stuffed shrimp ahead of time?
Yes! You can stuff the shrimp and keep them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just cover them with plastic wrap. This is a great time-saver if you’re hosting a dinner party!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare, but just in case!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently in the oven to keep the shrimp tender and the stuffing crispy!
Stuffed Shrimp Recipe: 5 Reasons to Love This Dish
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A delicious stuffed shrimp recipe that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup cooked crab meat
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, crab meat, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, butter, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each shrimp with the mixture.
- Place stuffed shrimp on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until shrimp are cooked through.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor.
- You can substitute crab meat with lobster or another seafood.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: stuffed shrimp recipe