Stuffed Shrimp
introduction
Stuffed shrimp is a delightful dish featuring succulent shrimp filled with a rich and savory mixture. This dish is perfect for special occasions or casual family dinners. The combination of flavors from the stuffing and the tender shrimp makes it a hit among seafood lovers.
Why you’ll love it
You’ll love stuffed shrimp for many reasons. First, it is incredibly flavorful, thanks to the mix of seasonings and filling ingredients. Second, it’s versatile—you can customize the stuffing to your liking. Lastly, stuffed shrimp is both satisfying and impressive, making it a great option for entertaining guests while being easy enough for a weekday meal.
Ingredients
To make delicious stuffed shrimp, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs 16-20 shrimp (deveined and butterflied)
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 8 oz lump or claw crab meat (optional)
- 1 cup cooked spinach (strained and chopped)
- 6 oz chopped artichokes (strained and chopped)
- 1 cup mayonnaise (can substitute for sour cream or cream cheese)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 8 oz cheese (mozzarella and pepper jack recommended)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill (chopped)
Substitutions & key variations
Feel free to customize your stuffed shrimp! Instead of crab meat, you can use shrimp or even cooked chicken for a different flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. You can also experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or feta. For extra spice, you might consider adding diced jalapeños or green chilies to the stuffing mix.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Prepare the shrimp
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, season the deveined and butterflied shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the shrimp before baking.
Step 2: Make the stuffing
In a mixing bowl, combine the lump or claw crab meat (if using), chopped spinach, chopped artichokes, mayonnaise, Italian breadcrumbs, your choice of cheese, minced garlic, garlic powder, dried herbs, and garlic salt. Mix everything well to create a cohesive filling.
Step 3: Stuff the shrimp
Take a spoonful of the stuffing mixture and fill each butterflied shrimp generously. Make sure to pack the stuffing in, so it holds up during baking.
Step 4: Bake
Place the stuffed shrimp on a baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through and the filling is bubbly. For added flavor, drizzle melted butter sauce over the shrimp right before serving.
Success tips
- Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated correctly to cook the shrimp evenly.
- Texture: Don’t overbake the shrimp; they should be tender and not rubbery.
- Common mistakes: Avoid underseasoning the shrimp and stuffing; it can result in a bland final dish.
How to serve
Stuffed shrimp can be served as an elegant appetizer or a fantastic main dish. Pair it with a fresh salad, pasta, or some crusty bread. You can also drizzle more garlic butter on top and garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch.
Storage & reheating
To store leftover stuffed shrimp, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, or microwave them for a quick option (be careful not to overcook).
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before butterflying and seasoning.
2. What sides go well with stuffed shrimp?
Stuffed shrimp pairs excellently with side dishes like garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a light salad.
3. How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. The internal temperature should reach 120-140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
Stuffed shrimp is high in protein, especially if using crab meat. It also provides healthy fats from olive oil and cheese. When using low-fat ingredients, you can reduce the calorie count without compromising the taste.
Conclusion
Stuffed shrimp brings together delightfully bold flavors and tender seafood, making it an exceptional addition to any meal. It’s not only easy to prepare but also presents beautifully on the table. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering or family dinner; you won’t be disappointed!
Links to related recipes
- Baked Garlic Butter Shrimp
- Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
- Creamy Seafood Pasta
- Shrimp Scampi with Lemon and Garlic
- Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce
Stuffed Shrimp
Ingredients
For the shrimp
- 2 lbs 16-20 shrimp (deveined and butterflied)
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon pepper
For the stuffing
- 8 oz lump or claw crab meat (optional)
- 1 cup cooked spinach (strained and chopped)
- 6 oz chopped artichokes (strained and chopped)
- 1 cup mayonnaise (can substitute sour cream or cream cheese)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 8 oz cheese (mozzarella and pepper jack recommended)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill (chopped)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Season the deveined and butterflied shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, and pepper.
Making the Stuffing
- In a mixing bowl, combine the lump or claw crab meat (if using), chopped spinach, chopped artichokes, mayonnaise, Italian breadcrumbs, your choice of cheese, minced garlic, garlic powder, dried herbs, and garlic salt.
- Mix everything well to create a cohesive filling.
Stuffing and Baking
- Take a spoonful of the stuffing mixture and fill each butterflied shrimp generously.
- Pack the stuffing in, so it holds up during baking.
- Place the stuffed shrimp on a baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through and the filling is bubbly.
- Drizzle melted butter sauce over the shrimp right before serving.