Crab Stuffed Shrimp

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crab Stuffed Shrimp recipe is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The shrimp adds a fresh, light taste while the crab filling is rich, savory, and slightly buttery. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also looks stunning when plated, making it a showstopper for any occasion. With its relatively simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can make an elegant dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it as an appetizer, a side dish, or a main course.

Ingredients

• 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on

• 1/2 lb lump crab meat, drained and flaked

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a medium bowl, combine the crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

3. Use a sharp knife to create a small pocket in each shrimp by cutting along the back, being careful not to cut all the way through.

4. Stuff each shrimp with the crab mixture, pressing the filling gently into the shrimp to ensure it stays in place.

5. Place the stuffed shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

6. Drizzle the shrimp with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through, and the stuffing is golden brown on top.

7. Garnish with additional parsley before serving, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation time: 15 minutes

• Cooking time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Cheese variation: You can add some shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese to the crab mixture for a richer, creamier filling.

• Spicy variation: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small chopped jalapeño to the stuffing for a bit of heat.

• Breadcrumb alternative: Swap the breadcrumbs for crushed Ritz crackers or panko for a different texture.

• Vegetarian variation: Substitute crab with chopped mushrooms or another plant-based filling for a vegetarian option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the shrimp on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, though the texture may not be as crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them thoroughly before using them in this recipe.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crab-stuffed shrimp and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. Can I use imitation crab meat instead of real crab?

While real crab meat provides the best flavor, you can substitute imitation crab if that’s what you have available.

4. Can I make the crab stuffing without mayonnaise?

If you prefer a lighter stuffing, you can replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a similar creamy texture.

5. How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Be sure to check the shrimp after 15 minutes of baking. Once they turn opaque and the stuffing is golden brown, remove them from the oven to avoid overcooking.

6. What can I serve with Crab Stuffed Shrimp?

This dish pairs well with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple garlic butter pasta.

7. How can I make the crab stuffing spicier?

You can add finely chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the stuffing for an extra kick.

8. Can I grill the stuffed shrimp instead of baking them?

Yes, grilling the stuffed shrimp can add a wonderful smoky flavor. Just be sure to use indirect heat and grill them for about 5-7 minutes per side.

9. Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

10. Can I use smaller shrimp for this recipe?

You can use smaller shrimp, but you’ll need to adjust the amount of crab stuffing accordingly. Smaller shrimp will cook faster, so keep an eye on them.

Conclusion

Crab Stuffed Shrimp is a delicious and impressive dish that combines the best of both seafood worlds—shrimp and crab. Whether served as an appetizer, a main course, or a special treat for guests, it’s a dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The simple yet flavorful stuffing, combined with the tender shrimp, creates a meal that is both satisfying and elegant. Try it out and enjoy this easy-to-make, gourmet-inspired dish in the comfort of your own home!