Crab-Stuffed Shrimp

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Crab-Stuffed Shrimp is a luxurious seafood dish that combines succulent jumbo shrimp with a rich and flavorful crab filling. Perfect as an appetizer or a main dish, this recipe is both elegant and easy to prepare. The combination of Creole-seasoned crab meat, creamy binders, and buttery cracker crumbs delivers a savory delight sure to impress seafood lovers.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • For the Crab Filling:
    • 1 pound crab meat (lump or imitation)
    • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
    • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
    • 1 tablespoon butter
    • 1 small onion, finely chopped
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1 green onion, chopped
    • 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
    • 1 small red bell pepper, finely chopped
    • 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
    • ½ teaspoon Creole seasoning (or salt and pepper)
    • ½ cup cream cheese, softened
    • ½ cup crushed buttery crackers
    • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • For the Shrimp:
    • 1 pound jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined (leave tails on)
    • Additional Creole seasoning (or salt and pepper)
  • To Serve:
    • Lemon wedges

Directions

  1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
    Preheat your oven to 375℉ (190℃). Line a baking dish with foil or parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Season the Crab Meat:
    In a large bowl, season the crab meat with Creole seasoning (or salt and pepper).
  3. Create the Binder:
    Beat eggs and mix with mayonnaise in a small bowl. Refrigerate this mixture while preparing the other ingredients.
  4. Cook the Aromatics:
    Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, green onion, celery, red bell pepper, parsley, and Creole seasoning. Sauté for 3-5 minutes, then transfer to a bowl to cool.
  5. Prepare the Filling:
    Crush crackers into fine crumbs. Once the sautéed vegetables are cool, gently fold in cream cheese, cracker crumbs, parmesan cheese, and seasoned crab meat. Mix until well combined. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Prep the Shrimp:
    Make a slit in the underside of each shrimp (¾ deep, stopping at the tail). Lay the shrimp flat with the tail upright and season with Creole seasoning.
  7. Stuff the Shrimp:
    Place 1-2 tablespoons of crab filling into the slit of each shrimp. Arrange stuffed shrimp in the prepared baking dish, filling side up. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
  8. Bake:
    Bake for about 20 minutes or until the shrimp are cooked through and the filling is golden brown.
  9. Serve:
    Serve immediately with lemon wedges for garnish.

Nutritional Information

  • Calories: 220 per serving
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Fat: 11g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg
  • Sodium: 480mg

This indulgent dish is rich in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it a great choice for special occasions or a fancy dinner at home. Pair it with sides like roasted vegetables or garlic butter rice for a complete meal!

Origins and Culinary Influence

The origins of stuffed seafood dishes trace back to coastal regions where fresh ingredients like shrimp and crab are abundant. In particular, Creole and Cajun cuisines from the Southern United States have greatly influenced recipes like Crab-Stuffed Shrimp. These cuisines are known for their bold flavors, vibrant seasonings, and creative use of seafood.

The addition of Creole seasoning in this recipe nods to its roots in Louisiana-style cooking, which thrives on the marriage of spices, aromatic vegetables, and rich proteins. This blend of flavors creates a dish that is both hearty and sophisticated, making it a timeless favorite.

What Makes Crab-Stuffed Shrimp Special

Crab-Stuffed Shrimp stands out as a dish that combines indulgence with simplicity. Here are the key elements that make it exceptional:

  1. Luxurious Filling: The crab filling is a rich mixture of creamy ingredients, fresh aromatics, and savory seasonings. The inclusion of parmesan cheese and buttery crackers adds depth and enhances the filling’s texture.
  2. Versatile Shrimp: Jumbo shrimp, with their natural sweetness and firm texture, provide the perfect canvas for the crab stuffing. Their mild flavor complements the richness of the crab mixture without overwhelming it.
  3. Bold Seasoning: Creole seasoning elevates the dish by adding a punch of spice and complexity. Its blend of paprika, garlic, onion, and herbs creates a robust flavor profile that ties the dish together.
  4. Elegant Presentation: With the shrimp tails elegantly standing upright and the golden-brown filling nestled inside, this dish delivers visual appeal, making it perfect for entertaining.

Customizing the Recipe

One of the best aspects of Crab-Stuffed Shrimp is its adaptability. Here are some ways to customize the recipe to suit different preferences or dietary needs:

  1. Seafood Options: Substitute the crab with lobster or scallops for a different take on the filling.
  2. Spice Level: Adjust the Creole seasoning to control the heat, or add cayenne pepper for extra spice.
  3. Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for the filling to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  4. Cheese Variations: Experiment with other cheeses like gruyere or cheddar to add unique flavors.
  5. Vegetable Additions: Incorporate finely chopped spinach or mushrooms into the filling for added nutrition and flavor.

These variations allow you to tailor the dish to your preferences while maintaining its core appeal.

Pairing Crab-Stuffed Shrimp with Side Dishes

Crab-Stuffed Shrimp is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some suggestions to complement its flavors:

  1. Garlic Butter Rice: A simple yet flavorful side that soaks up the juices from the shrimp and crab filling.
  2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers roasted with olive oil and herbs make a light and vibrant accompaniment.
  3. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the rich seafood flavors.
  4. Citrus Salad: A fresh salad with citrus fruits, mixed greens, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
  5. Crusty Bread: Warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every bit of the savory crab stuffing.

These sides add variety to your plate, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Tips for Perfect Crab-Stuffed Shrimp

To ensure the success of your Crab-Stuffed Shrimp, keep these tips in mind:

  1. Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality shrimp and crab meat for the best flavor and texture. Lump crab meat is ideal for its sweetness and chunkiness.
  2. Don’t Overstuff: Avoid overloading the shrimp with filling, as this can cause them to fall apart during baking.
  3. Even Cooking: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding the baking dish may lead to uneven results.
  4. Golden Topping: Lightly spray the shrimp with cooking spray before baking to achieve a golden-brown finish on the filling.
  5. Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking to help the flavors meld together.

By following these tips, you’ll create a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a fine dining restaurant.

Health Benefits of Seafood

Seafood dishes like Crab-Stuffed Shrimp offer not only indulgence but also nutritional benefits. Here’s why this dish can be a healthy addition to your menu:

  1. Rich in Protein: Both shrimp and crab are excellent sources of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
  2. Low in Calories: Seafood is naturally low in calories, making it a great option for those watching their intake.
  3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Crab meat contains omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
  4. Vitamins and Minerals: Shrimp and crab are rich in essential nutrients like Vitamin B12, zinc, selenium, and phosphorus, which contribute to overall well-being.

While Crab-Stuffed Shrimp is an indulgent dish, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet when paired with wholesome sides.

Conclusion

Crab-Stuffed Shrimp is a culinary masterpiece that brings together the delicate flavors of shrimp and the richness of crab in a way that feels both indulgent and accessible. This dish offers a delightful combination of textures, bold seasonings, and a hint of elegance that makes it suitable for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday celebrations.

Its versatility allows for endless customizations, ensuring it can be tailored to suit any taste or dietary preference. Paired with complementary sides, this dish transforms into a complete meal that is as nutritious as it is delicious.

By mastering Crab-Stuffed Shrimp, you’re not just creating a dish—you’re crafting an experience that brings the luxury of fine dining into your home kitchen. Whether served as an appetizer or the centerpiece of a meal, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy seafood lovers everywhere.

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