The Ultimate Baked Stuffed Shrimp Recipe: A Delicious & Easy Guide
This recipe for baked stuffed shrimp will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. Forget greasy fried shrimp – this baked version is lighter, healthier, and just as flavorful. We'll cover everything from selecting the perfect shrimp to mastering the stuffing, ensuring your baked stuffed shrimp turns out perfectly every time.
Choosing Your Shrimp
The foundation of any great stuffed shrimp recipe is, of course, the shrimp! Opt for large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined. Look for shrimp that are firm, translucent, and smell fresh – avoid any with a strong fishy odor. Frozen shrimp work perfectly fine; just ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before stuffing.
The Perfect Stuffing: A Flavor Explosion
This recipe uses a classic breadcrumb stuffing, but feel free to adapt it to your own taste!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions for the Stuffing:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed. The stuffing should be moist but not soggy.
Stuffing and Baking Your Shrimp
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions:
- Gently cut a shallow slit lengthwise along the back of each shrimp, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Spoon the stuffing evenly into each shrimp, filling the slit.
- Arrange the stuffed shrimp in a lightly greased baking dish.
- Brush the shrimp with melted butter. This adds richness and helps them brown beautifully.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the stuffing is heated through. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your shrimp.
Serving Suggestions
Your baked stuffed shrimp is best served immediately. Consider these serving suggestions:
- Side Dishes: A simple side salad, roasted vegetables (asparagus, broccoli), or rice pilaf complement this dish perfectly.
- Sauce: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a drizzle of garlic aioli, or a creamy dill sauce elevates the flavor.
Tips for Success
- Don't overstuff the shrimp: Overstuffed shrimp can burst during baking.
- Adjust baking time: Larger shrimp will require slightly longer baking time.
- Check for doneness: The shrimp should be opaque and pink throughout.
- Get creative with your stuffing: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Baked Stuffed Shrimp
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, but ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before stuffing.
Q: How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?
A: The shrimp will turn pink and opaque, and the stuffing will be heated through.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the stuffing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Stuff the shrimp just before baking for best results.
This baked stuffed shrimp recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity, deliciousness, and health benefits make it a perfect addition to your weekly meal plan or a special occasion dinner. Enjoy!
