Crab Stuffed Shrimp is a tasty dish that features juicy shrimp filled with a creamy crab mixture. It’s easy to make and perfect for a special dinner!
Who can resist shrimp and crab? It feels fancy but is simple enough for a weeknight treat. I love serving it with a squeeze of lemon for an extra kick of flavor!
Making Crab Stuffed Shrimp is a breeze! Just mix the filling, stuff the shrimp, and bake. It’s a guaranteed hit and pairs wonderfully with rice or a fresh salad!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best here, as they can hold the stuffing well. If you’re looking for alternatives, try using scallops or even stuffed mushrooms if you prefer a different seafood option or a vegetarian dish.
Lump Crab Meat: Fresh crab is the star, but if it’s hard to find or expensive, canned crab meat can be a good substitute. Just make sure to drain it well. I often use imitation crab if I’m on a budget, though the flavor will be different.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a nice crunch to the stuffing. If you can’t find it, regular breadcrumbs will work but might not be as crispy. You could also use crushed crackers for a different texture.
Cream Cheese & Mayonnaise: These add creaminess to the stuffing. For a lighter option, you could use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. Lactose-free cream cheese is also available if needed.
Old Bay Seasoning: This adds that classic seafood flavor. If you don’t have it, a mix of paprika, celery salt, and a pinch of cayenne can mimic the taste. It’s fun to play around with spices!
How Do I Butterflied Shrimp Properly?
Butterflying shrimp can seem daunting, but it’s quite simple! This technique not only makes the shrimp look great but also allows for even cooking and easy stuffing.
- Hold the shrimp with the tail facing you. Use a sharp knife to make a shallow cut along the back, starting from the head towards the tail.
- Be careful not to cut all the way through; you want to open it like a book.
- Once butterflied, gently press to flatten out the shrimp. This creates more space for stuffing and helps it cook evenly.
With practice, you’ll get faster at it! Just take your time, and don’t rush the process. It’s a great skill to have in your cooking toolbox!
How to Make Crab Stuffed Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 1 cup lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup bell pepper, finely chopped (red or green)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Olive oil or butter for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to bake. So, you’ll need around 30-35 minutes in total to create these delicious crab stuffed shrimp. Perfect for a tasty dinner or special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Filling:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, take a large mixing bowl and add the lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, chopped onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Gently mix these ingredients together until everything is well combined. Don’t forget to season it with a little salt and pepper to taste!
2. Preparing the Shrimp:
Next, take your peeled and deveined shrimp. You need to butterfly them! Carefully make a shallow cut down the back of each shrimp, being cautious not to cut through to the bottom. This will create a nice pocket for the crab filling.
3. Stuffing the Shrimp:
Now it’s time to fill those shrimp with the crab mixture! Take a spoonful of the crab stuffing and gently press it into each butterflied shrimp. Make sure the stuffing is packed in securely to hold together while baking.
4. Baking the Stuffed Shrimp:
Arrange the stuffed shrimp on a baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil or melted butter over the shrimp to help them get nice and golden while cooking. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. They should be cooked through when ready, and the stuffing will be lightly golden and heated throughout.
5. Serving Your Dish:
Once they are done, take your stuffed shrimp out of the oven and let them cool for just a moment. Serve them immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges if you like. Enjoy your delicious crab stuffed shrimp!
Can I Substitute the Crab Meat?
Absolutely! If you don’t have crab meat on hand, you can substitute it with cooked lobster, shrimp, or even a mixture of sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that whatever you’re using is cooked beforehand and finely chopped to maintain a similar texture.
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Yes! While cream cheese adds creaminess, you could substitute it with mascarpone or sour cream for a slightly different twist. Just keep in mind that changing the cheese might alter the final flavor, so choose according to your preference.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently in the oven at a low temperature to avoid overcooking the shrimp. You can also microwave them briefly, but be cautious not to heat them too long to retain their tenderness.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the crab mixture and stuff the shrimp a few hours ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. If you want to prepare them the night before, be sure to store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh!
