When it comes to seafood, few dishes can match the elegance and flavor of crab stuffed shrimp. This exquisite recipe combines the tender sweetness of jumbo shrimp with a savory crab filling that is sure to impress at any dinner table. Whether you’re preparing a festive holiday meal or just treating yourself to a delightful dinner, crab stuffed shrimp is a dish that stands out for its flavor and presentation.
Why We Love This Crab Stuffed Shrimp Recipe
There are many reasons to fall in love with crab stuffed shrimp. Firstly, the star ingredients, jumbo shrimp and succulent crab meat, are a match made in culinary heaven. They deliver not only on taste, but also on texture. The juicy shrimp pairs brilliantly with the meaty, flaky crab filling, creating a robust flavor profile that delights the palate.
Additionally, this recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Each step is straightforward, which allows you to enjoy the cooking process as much as the final result. With its vibrant flavors and impressive presentation, crab stuffed shrimp is designed to leave lasting memories—not just for you, but for everyone who enjoys it.
What’s more, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Whether you want to add a bit of heat or experiment with different spices, the recipe offers room for personalization while still keeping heart of what makes it irresistible.
Ingredients for Crab Stuffed Shrimp
To craft this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 10 raw jumbo shrimp, U10
- 1/2 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1.5 tsp Old Bay seasoning (for crab stuffing)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (for crab stuffing)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 of a small lemon, juice
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
- 1.5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Olive oil (for greasing the baking sheet)
These ingredients come together beautifully to create a dish that is not only delicious but visually enticing.
How to Make Crab Stuffed Shrimp
Preparing crab stuffed shrimp involves a few easy steps that you can follow to ensure the best results. Start by butterflying the shrimp. This means removing the shells while leaving the tails intact and slicing along the spine to create an opening. This technique will not only make the shrimp easier to stuff but also more visually appealing.
Once you have butterflied the shrimp, toss them in a bowl with avocado oil, and season them with Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This quick marinade infuses the shrimp with flavor, ensuring that every bite is packed with taste.
Now, shift your focus to the crab stuffing. In a separate bowl, mix the Old Bay, smoked paprika, chopped parsley, baking powder, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, egg, and lemon juice. Stir these ingredients together until they are well combined. The creamy mayonnaise adds a nice richness to the stuffing, while the Dijon mustard delivers a pleasant tang.
Next, gently fold in the lobster meat to the mixture. Be careful to avoid breaking it apart too much; you want to preserve the lumps of crab for texture and presentation. Once combined, cover the mixture and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Preheat your oven to 375°F while you prepare your baking sheet. Lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the butterflied shrimp on the baking sheet, leaving roughly two inches between each piece. Now comes the fun part: using a spoon, scoop the crab mixture onto each shrimp, pressing it down gently so that it adheres while wrapping the tail around the top for added flair.
To finish off, brush the shrimp with melted butter for an added layer of richness and flavor. Place the baking sheet in the oven and let your crab stuffed shrimp bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until they are thoroughly cooked and golden brown.
How to Serve Crab Stuffed Shrimp
Serving crab stuffed shrimp is almost as enjoyable as eating them. Once your dish is out of the oven, garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and some lemon wedges on the side. This not only adds a pop of color but also offers an extra zest that complements the seafood.
You can serve crab stuffed shrimp as a stunning appetizer or as a main dish alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. If you want to elevate the dining experience, consider serving it with crusty bread or garlic butter rice to soak up any leftover juices. A chilled glass of sparkling water or soda would be an excellent pairing, allowing the flavors of the shrimp and crab to shine through without being overpowered.
Expert Tips for Perfect Crab Stuffed Shrimp
Here are some expert tips to ensure your crab stuffed shrimp turns out perfectly every time:
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest shrimp and crab meat you can find. Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in flavor and texture.
- Do Not Overmix: When combining the crab with the other stuffing ingredients, be gentle. You want to maintain the lumps of crab rather than break them apart, enhancing the dish’s appeal.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste. If you prefer more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Resting Time Matters: Allowing the crab mixture to rest in the refrigerator for a while helps it hold together better when baked.
- Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Ovens vary, so keep a close watch on your shrimp as they bake. You want them opaque and firm without being overcooked and rubbery.
How to Store Crab Stuffed Shrimp
Storing crab stuffed shrimp is straightforward. If you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be stored for up to three days. When reheating, be sure to use a gentle method to avoid overcooking the shrimp—and a quick blast in the microwave might be too harsh.
If you want to prepare them ahead of time, you can assemble the shrimp and crab filling and keep them separated in the fridge. Combine them and bake when you’re ready to serve.
Variations of Crab Stuffed Shrimp
The versatility of crab stuffed shrimp opens the door for a variety of culinary adventures. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next creation:
- Spicy Jalapeño Twist: For a kick, add finely diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the crab mixture to spice things up.
- Herbed Infusion: Incorporate fresh dill or chives for a touch of herby brightness.
- Cheesy Delight: Add shredded cheese, like cheddar or parmesan, to the stuffing for a gooey, cheesy surprise.
- Mediterranean Style: Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or feta cheese to give the dish a Mediterranean flair.
- Whole Wheat Twist: Substitute regular panko with whole-grain breadcrumbs for a healthier option with a nutty flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions about Crab Stuffed Shrimp
What is the best type of shrimp for stuffing?
The best shrimp for stuffing are jumbo shrimp (U10) because they are large enough to hold a generous amount of filling while still being tender and delicious.
Can I prepare crab stuffed shrimp in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the shrimp and the stuffing ahead of time. Just refrigerate them separately until you’re ready to bake.
How do I know when the crab stuffed shrimp is done cooking?
The shrimp should turn opaque and firm to the touch. Also, the crab stuffing should be heated through and slightly golden on top.
What can I serve with crab stuffed shrimp?
Consider pairing crab stuffed shrimp with a light salad, rice, or crusty bread. Lemon wedges also add a fresh burst of flavor.
Crab Stuffed Shrimp
Equipment
- Small Saucepan
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Oven
Ingredients
- 10 pieces Raw Jumbo Shrimp U10, butterflied.
- 1/2 Tbsp Avocado Oil
- 1 tsp Old Bay Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Pepper
- 1.5 tsp Old Bay Seasoning For crab stuffing.
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika For crab stuffing.
- 2 Tbsp Fresh Parsley Finely chopped.
- 1/2 tsp Baking Powder
- 2 tsp Dijon Mustard
- 2 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
- 1 large Egg
- 1/2 small Lemon Juice.
- 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- 1 lb Jumbo Lump Crab Meat
- 1.5 Tbsp Unsalted Butter Melted.
- Olive Oil For greasing the baking sheet
Instructions
- Butterfly the shrimp by removing the shells while leaving the tails intact and slicing along the spine.
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with avocado oil, Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crab stuffing ingredients: Old Bay, smoked paprika, parsley, baking powder, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, egg, and lemon juice.
- Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful not to break it apart.
- Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking sheet with olive oil.
- Arrange the butterflied shrimp on the baking sheet and scoop crab mixture onto each shrimp.
- Brush the shrimp with melted butter and bake for 18-20 minutes until cooked through and golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
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