This Stuffed Shrimp recipe is a delightful seafood dish that brings together plump, juicy shrimp and a savory, herb-infused stuffing that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, these stuffed shrimp are baked to perfection, showcasing a beautiful golden-brown exterior while retaining a succulent interior. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both shrimp lovers and those looking to impress.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this stuffed shrimp recipe for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The dish is not only satisfying but also allows you to elevate a simple ingredient into something extraordinary. With fresh herbs, savory breadcrumbs, and a hint of spice, each bite bursts with flavor. Additionally, this recipe fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle, making it an excellent option for those following a ketogenic or paleo diet. Plus, the cooking process is straightforward, even for novice chefs, ensuring that you can whip up this dish with minimal effort and maximum impact.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and herbs will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. If possible, opt for wild-caught shrimp for a more robust taste.
- Choose the Right Shrimp: Large shrimp (16-20 count) are ideal for stuffing, but you can use smaller ones if that’s all you have on hand.
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
- Don’t Overstuff: Fill the shrimp generously but avoid overstuffing, as this can lead to the stuffing spilling out during cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Keep an eye on the shrimp while baking. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery. Cook just until they’re opaque.
- Neglecting to Devein: Always devein shrimp before cooking for a better texture and presentation.
- Using Stale Breadcrumbs: Ensure your breadcrumbs are fresh to avoid a bland stuffing mixture.
- Skipping Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your stuffing well; this is where a lot of the flavor comes from.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the stuffing up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you want to prep the shrimp, you can clean and devein them the day before and keep them covered in the fridge. Just make sure to stuff and bake them on the day of serving for the best texture and flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Stuffed Shrimp: Add shredded cheese like mozzarella or parmesan to the stuffing for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the stuffing for a spicier version.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as dill or cilantro for unique flavor profiles.
- Grilled Option: Instead of baking, try grilling the stuffed shrimp for a smoky flavor.
How to Serve
Serve the stuffed shrimp on a large, elegant platter for a stunning presentation. Pair them with a fresh lemon wedge for squeezing over the top. For sides, consider a light salad or a bed of garlic buttered rice. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your stuffed shrimp with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer such as a pilsner. For cocktails, a refreshing mojito or a classic gin and tonic would complement the flavors beautifully. As for side dishes, roasted asparagus or a citrusy quinoa salad would make a delightful addition.
How to Store
Leftover stuffed shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, ensure they are fully cooled, then wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave them in short intervals until hot.
Equipment Needed
- Baking dish: A glass or ceramic baking dish works best for even cooking.
- Mixing bowl: For preparing the stuffing.
- Knife and cutting board: For deveining and chopping ingredients.
- Oven: Essential for baking the shrimp to perfection.
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almond meal.
- Dairy-Free: Omit any cheese and use dairy-free butter alternatives in the stuffing.
- Vegan: Replace shrimp with hearty vegetables like zucchini or eggplant and use a vegan breadcrumb mixture for stuffing.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, consider adding seasonal vegetables like sweet corn or diced bell peppers to the stuffing. In fall, you might include diced apples or walnuts for a unique flavor twist. Fresh herbs will also vary seasonally, so use what’s available for the best taste.
Cost Breakdown
The estimated cost per serving for this stuffed shrimp recipe is around $5-7, depending on the shrimp’s market price and ingredient availability. To save money, consider using frozen shrimp or purchasing in bulk during sales.
Kitchen Hacks
- Peeling Shrimp: To quickly peel shrimp, use a small pair of kitchen scissors to cut along the back and remove the shell easily.
- Chopping Herbs: Use a pair of kitchen scissors to snip fresh herbs directly into your mixing bowl for less mess.
- Easy Cleanup: Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easier cleanup after baking.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use cooked shrimp?: Yes, but be mindful that cooked shrimp will require less baking time. Warm them through until heated.
- Can I use other seafood?: Absolutely! This stuffing works well with scallops or even fish fillets.
- How can I make it spicier?: Add more red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the stuffing for an extra kick.
Stuffed Shrimp
This Stuffed Shrimp recipe is a delightful seafood dish that brings together plump, juicy shrimp and a savory, herb-infused stuffing that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, these stuffed shrimp are baked to perfection, showcasing a beautiful golden-brown exterior while retaining a succulent interior.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup cooked crab meat (optional)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, crab meat (if using), onion, garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Take each shrimp and make a small incision along the back to create a pocket for stuffing.
- Spoon the prepared filling into each shrimp, being careful not to overstuff.
- Place the stuffed shrimp in a greased baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and the stuffing is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 394Total Fat 17gSaturated Fat 9gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 290mgSodium 1615mgCarbohydrates 24gFiber 2gSugar 2gProtein 35g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This stuffed shrimp recipe is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings together flavors, textures, and a touch of elegance. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, these scrumptious stuffed shrimp will surely impress. Take the time to savor each bite, and don’t be afraid to make it your own with variations. Happy cooking!
