Catch the aroma of sizzling shrimp wafting through your kitchen as you prepare to dive into this unforgettable Crab Stuffed Shrimp Recipe. Imagine each plump shrimp cradling a rich, savory blend of tender crab meat and spices that tantalizes your taste buds like no other dish can.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?
- Can I make crab stuffed shrimp ahead of time?
- What can I substitute for crab meat?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I fondly remember the first time I savored this delicious dish during a family gathering; my uncle’s kitchen transformed into a seafood paradise. The laughter and chatter filled the air while everyone eagerly anticipated diving into the feast. Trust me; this delightful dish will leave you clamoring for more!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy-to-make crab stuffed shrimp brings together bold flavors and elegant presentation in one dish.
- The tender shrimp with its crispy exterior makes every bite irresistible.
- Visually stunning on any dinner table, it’s perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself.
- Versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions, you can easily adapt the filling based on your preferences.
I once served these crab stuffed wonders at a dinner party, and let me tell you—the compliments just kept rolling in!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Large Shrimp: Opt for fresh or properly thawed frozen shrimp; they should be peeled and deveined for best results.
- Crab Meat: Choose lump crab meat for a luxurious texture; check for shells before using.
- Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind the filling together while adding texture.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds creaminess; it enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses aromatic goodness into your stuffing mixture.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors; don’t skimp on this!
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper elevate the taste—feel free to get creative!
- Butter: Melted butter brushed over the tops creates a golden crust that’s simply divine!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Shrimp: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat your large shrimp dry with paper towels before seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper.
Create the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine lump crab meat, softened cream cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper until well mixed—this is where flavor magic happens.
Stuff Those Shrimp!: Carefully spoon the filling into each shrimp’s curved back until they’re generously filled but not overflowing—trust me; less is sometimes more!
Arrange & Bake: Place your stuffed shrimp on a greased baking sheet. Brush melted butter over each one for that golden finish before popping them in the oven.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake the shrimp for about 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and appear cooked through—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Serve & Enjoy!: Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving—these are best enjoyed warm alongside cocktail sauce or melted garlic butter!
Now you’re moments away from an unforgettable dining experience!
This Crab Stuffed Shrimp Recipe is bound to become a favorite among friends and family alike. Enjoy every bite of this culinary masterpiece!
You Must Know
- The secret to an amazing crab stuffed shrimp is fresh ingredients and patience.
- Let the flavors meld for a few minutes before stuffing, and you’ll be rewarded with a dish that sings.
- The aroma alone is enough to make anyone hungry!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping your shrimp; peel, devein, and butterfly them. Sauté the crab mixture while you preheat the oven. Finally, stuff, bake, and enjoy that delicious smell wafting through your kitchen.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the crab for lobster or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option. A sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning can elevate the flavor profile too!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F until warmed through for best texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use only high-quality seafood and season generously; it makes all the difference in flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd your shrimp when baking—give them space to crisp up beautifully.
- Always taste as you go to balance flavors perfectly!
The first time I made crab stuffed shrimp, my friends devoured them faster than a pack of hungry seagulls at the beach! Their compliments were so enthusiastic that I almost believed I was a culinary genius.
FAQ
What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?
Large or jumbo shrimp work best as they hold more stuffing and are more flavorful.
Can I make crab stuffed shrimp ahead of time?
Yes, prepare them ahead and store in the fridge until ready to bake for convenience.
What can I substitute for crab meat?
Lobster or imitation crab meat can be used if you prefer different seafood options.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Crab Stuffed Shrimp Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor this Crab Stuffed Shrimp Recipe, featuring tender shrimp filled with a rich crab mixture for a delightful seafood dish perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
- Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Lump crab meat
- Breadcrumbs
- Cream cheese
- Fresh garlic, minced
- Lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper
- Melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and pat shrimp dry; season lightly with salt and pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine lump crab meat, cream cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- Carefully spoon the filling into each shrimp without overflowing.
- Arrange stuffed shrimp on a greased baking sheet and brush with melted butter.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Serve warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shrimp (100g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
