Stuffed Shrimp

If you’re looking for a dish that makes your taste buds dance, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Stuffed Shrimp! This delightful seafood treat is not only a hit at family gatherings but also a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. Imagine perfectly butterflied shrimp, filled with a creamy, flavorful stuffing that’s bursting with goodness. It’s a comforting meal that feels special without being overly complicated.

I love making this dish because it brings everyone together around the table. Whether it’s a cozy dinner with loved ones or an elegant appetizer for a gathering, Stuffed Shrimp is versatile and always impresses. Plus, your kitchen will smell heavenly as they bake!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll have these delicious shrimp ready to pop in the oven.
• Family-friendly: The combination of flavors is sure to please both kids and adults alike!
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the stuffed shrimp ahead of time and simply bake them when you’re ready to eat.
• Endless flavor possibilities: The stuffing can be customized with your favorite ingredients to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create our scrumptious Stuffed Shrimp. Most of these items are pantry staples or easily found at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Shrimp

• 2 lbs 16-20 Shrimp (deveined and butterflied)
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp pepper

For the Stuffing

• 8 oz lump or claw crab meat (optional)
• 1 cup cooked spinach (strained & chopped)
• 6 oz chopped artichokes (strained & chopped)
• 1 cup mayo (or sour cream/cream cheese)
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 8 oz cheese (mozzarella and pepperjack work well)
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp dried herbs
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• Zest of one lemon

For Topping

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp fresh dill (chopped)

Variations

One of the best things about Stuffed Shrimp is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with the stuffing based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Instead of crab meat, try using shrimp or even a different seafood like scallops for variety.
• Add veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers or mushrooms into the stuffing for added flavor and texture.
• Change up the cheese: Use your favorite cheese blend—feta or gouda can add an interesting twist!
• Make it spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to give your stuffed shrimp a little kick.

How to Make Stuffed Shrimp

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. This ensures that your stuffed shrimp will cook evenly and turn out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

In a large bowl, season the deveined and butterflied shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and pepper. This step is crucial because it infuses delicious flavors into each shrimp before they are baked.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, mix together lump crab meat (if using), cooked spinach, chopped artichokes, mayo (or sour cream), dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, breadcrumbs, cheese of choice, minced garlic, dried herbs, and lemon juice. This creamy mixture will be the star of your stuffing!

Step 4: Fill Each Shrimp

Carefully fill each butterflied shrimp with the prepared stuffing mixture. Be generous but make sure not to overstuff; you want them to stay beautifully shaped while baking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the filled shrimp in a baking dish and bake for about 20-25 minutes until they are cooked through. Drizzle some melted unsalted butter mixed with minced garlic over them right before serving for that extra burst of flavor!

Now you’re all set! Enjoy these delicious Stuffed Shrimp as an appetizer or main course that everyone will love!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Shrimp

Making stuffed shrimp can be a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Choose Fresh Shrimp: Using fresh shrimp not only enhances the flavor but also ensures a tender, juicy texture. Look for shrimp that have a mild scent and are firm to the touch.

• Don’t Overstuff: It might be tempting to pack the filling tightly into each shrimp, but overstuffing can lead to uneven cooking. A generous but controlled amount of filling will allow the shrimp to cook evenly while still being flavorful.

• Use Quality Cheese: The type of cheese you choose can significantly impact the overall taste. Opt for a good melting cheese like mozzarella combined with a sharper cheese like pepper jack for an extra kick.

• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative! Adding ingredients like roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes can give your stuffing a unique twist and elevate the flavors.

• Bake Until Just Done: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them in the oven. They should be opaque and firm, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes. Overcooking can lead to tough shrimp!

How to Serve Stuffed Shrimp

Presenting your stuffed shrimp beautifully can enhance your dining experience and impress your guests! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or dill sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens up the flavors beautifully.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a light sprinkle will not only enhance flavor but also add visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Butter Asparagus: Lightly sautéed asparagus in garlic butter complements the richness of the stuffed shrimp while adding vibrant color and crunch.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing adds texture and balances the dish with its lightness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots provide sweetness and are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from the shrimp.
• Couscous with Herbs: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs and olive oil makes for an easy yet elegant side that pairs well with seafood.

Now you’re ready to create an amazing meal centered around these scrumptious stuffed shrimp! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Stuffed Shrimp recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy flavorful seafood without the fuss on busy weeknights. You can easily prepare the stuffing in advance and store it separately or even assemble the entire dish ahead of time.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed shrimp to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• When ready to enjoy, check for any signs of spoilage before reheating.

Freezing

• Prepare the shrimp and stuffing as directed but do not bake.
• Once assembled, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffed shrimp in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• For a quicker option, microwave individual portions on medium heat until warmed thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while preparing your Stuffed Shrimp.

Can I use different seafood in my Stuffed Shrimp?

Absolutely! While crab is a delicious option, you can substitute it with scallops or even cooked shrimp for a double layer of flavor.

How do I make my Stuffed Shrimp extra flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of your Stuffed Shrimp, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil into the filling. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can also elevate the dish beautifully!

What’s the best way to serve Stuffed Shrimp?

Stuffed Shrimp are delightful served warm as an appetizer alongside a dipping sauce, or they can be plated as an elegant main course with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

Can I prepare Stuffed Shrimp ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them beforehand and store them in the refrigerator or freeze them for later. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly when baking from cold or frozen.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try this comforting and delicious Stuffed Shrimp recipe! It’s not only a treat for your taste buds but also a great way to impress family and friends at your next gathering. Enjoy making this dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations you try. Happy cooking!