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When it comes to seafood, few dishes are as enticing as stuffed shrimp. This delightful recipe combines succulent shrimp with a delicious filling of crab meat, spinach, and artisanal cheeses, making it a standout at any dinner table. Whether you’re whipping it up for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to impress. There’s just something special about the combination of flavors and textures that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds!
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes this stuffed shrimp recipe truly exceptional? For starters, it’s an impressive yet simple dish that comes together quickly. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is versatile and loaded with flavor. Plus, the combination of seafood, veggies, and creamy goodness makes it a nutritious option that even picky eaters will love.
"I made this for my family last weekend, and it was a hit! The shrimp were perfectly cooked, and the stuffing was packed with flavor. Will definitely make it again!" – Happy Home Cook
The cooking process explained
Making stuffed shrimp is easier than you might think! Here’s a quick overview of the workflow. You’ll start by preparing the shrimp, then whisk together the luscious filling. Finally, it all comes together in the oven for a bake that finishes with a buttery finish.
Gather these items
To make the most mouthwatering stuffed shrimp, here’s what you’ll need:
- 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 for extra richness)
- 1 cup cooked spinach (strained & chopped)
- 6 oz chopped artichokes (strained & chopped)
- 1 cup mayo (sour cream or cream cheese can work too)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 8 oz cheese (mozzarella or pepper jack are great choices)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice and zest of the lemon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (for butter sauce)
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill (chopped)
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Season the shrimp. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, smoked paprika, Old Bay, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and pepper. Toss the deveined, butterflied shrimp in this mixture until well-coated.
- Make the filling. In a separate bowl, combine the lump or claw crab meat (if using), cooked spinach, chopped artichokes, mayo, breadcrumbs, cheese, minced garlic, and dried herbs. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Stuff the shrimp. Generously fill each butterflied shrimp with the stuffing mixture, packing it in well.
- Bake the shrimp. Place the stuffed shrimp on a baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
- Prepare the butter sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter and add minced garlic. Drizzle it over the stuffed shrimp just before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
Now that your stuffed shrimp is ready, the serving possibilities are endless! Plate them beautifully on a bed of sautéed greens or alongside a vibrant salad. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice will add an extra zing! Pair with a glass of white wine for a sophisticated touch that elevates your dining experience.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you happen to have any shrimp left, storing them properly will keep them delicious for later. Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 2-3 days. If you’re looking to keep them longer, you can freeze the cooked shrimp for up to three months. Just make sure they’re in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
Helpful cooking tips
- Thoroughly devein the shrimp. This step is essential for both cleanliness and taste.
- Mix and match your fillings. If crab isn’t your thing, consider using chopped shrimp, scallops, or even vegetarian alternatives like mushrooms or zucchini.
- Don’t overstuff. While it’s tempting to pile on the filling, a moderate amount yields better results and ensures even cooking.
Creative twists
Looking to switch things up? Consider adding chopped jalapeños into the stuffing for a spicy kick, or even mixing in some bacon bits for a smoky flavor. Substituting different cheeses like feta or gouda can also lead to exciting new flavors.
Common questions
-
What’s the best size shrimp to use?
- Aim for jumbo shrimp (16-20 count), which are large enough to hold stuffing without falling apart.
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Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shrimp in advance; just store them covered in the fridge and bake them before serving.
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What can I use instead of mayo?
- You can replace mayo with sour cream or cream cheese for different texture and flavor profiles.
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How can I adjust the spiciness?
- If you prefer a milder dish, leave out hot spices or use mild cheese instead.
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Is it safe to freeze seafood?
- Yes, cooked seafood can be frozen. Just ensure it’s stored properly in a freezer-safe container.
Final thoughts
Stuffed shrimp is not just a dish; it’s an experience to relish. The delightful combination of shrimp and creamy filling is sure to impress your family and friends alike. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below! Enjoy your delicious meal!
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Stuffed Shrimp
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a bowl, mix the olive oil, smoked paprika, Old Bay, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and pepper. Toss the deveined, butterflied shrimp in this mixture until well-coated.
- In a separate bowl, combine the lump or claw crab meat (if using), cooked spinach, chopped artichokes, mayo, breadcrumbs, cheese, minced garlic, and dried herbs. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Generously fill each butterflied shrimp with the stuffing mixture, packing it in well.
- Place the stuffed shrimp on a baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
- In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter and add minced garlic. Drizzle it over the stuffed shrimp just before serving.