Baked Stuffed Shrimp is a tasty dish that combines juicy shrimp with a flavorful stuffing made of breadcrumbs, herbs, and seasonings. It’s baked to golden perfection!
Your friends will definitely be impressed when you serve this. Just make sure you grab a few for yourself before they disappear—I know I always do! 😄
Making this dish is so simple! Just stuff the shrimp, pop them in the oven, and enjoy a delicious meal that feels fancy without all the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp is perfect for stuffing, but if you can’t find them, medium shrimp works too. Just adjust the cooking time. For a non-seafood option, use chicken breast or zucchini slices.
Breadcrumbs: I always opt for panko for that extra crunch, but you can use regular white breadcrumbs or whole wheat for a healthier twist. Gluten-free breadcrumbs also work if you need it to be gluten-free.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor, but if you’re out, feel free to use vegetable oil or melted coconut oil. Each will give a slightly different taste, but they’re all good.
Old Bay Seasoning: This classic seafood seasoning is fantastic, but if it’s not available, any blend of paprika, celery salt, and black pepper can work. Try a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor!
How Do I Prepare Shrimp for Stuffing?
Preparing shrimp properly is key for great stuffed shrimp. First, use a sharp knife to make a slit along the back of each shrimp. Be careful not to cut through – you want to create a pocket. Always remove the vein if it hasn’t been done already. This will keep the shrimp tasting fresh and clean.
- Use a paper towel to pat the shrimp dry; it helps the stuffing stick better.
- Work with one shrimp at a time to prevent contamination.
How to Make Baked Stuffed Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Stuffed Shrimp:
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails left intact
- 1 cup white bread crumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or other seafood seasoning)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon slices, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 10 minutes to prep and 15-18 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick yet impressive dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s ready for the shrimp when you finish preparing them.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
Take each shrimp and carefully make a slit along the back. Be gentle not to cut all the way through, as this will create a pocket for your tasty stuffing. If any veins are still present, remove them to ensure your shrimp taste clean and fresh.
3. Sauté the Flavors:
In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking them for about 3 to 4 minutes until they’re translucent and fragrant. This step releases wonderful flavors that will enhance your stuffing.
4. Mix the Stuffing:
In a mixing bowl, combine your sautéed garlic and onions with the bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, melted butter, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and sprinkle in some salt and pepper. Mix everything well so that all the ingredients stick together nicely.
5. Stuff the Shrimp:
Generously stuff each shrimp pocket with your breadcrumb mixture. Press it down gently so it sticks well and fills the shrimp nicely. Don’t be shy; you want to pack it in!
6. Arrange the Shrimp for Baking:
Place the stuffed shrimp on a baking dish or sheet in a single layer. This way, they can cook evenly and stay crispy.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the shrimp are cooked through and the stuffing turns golden brown and crispy on top.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take the shrimp out of the oven and sprinkle some extra chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve them warm with fresh lemon slices on the side for squeezing over the shrimp—delicious!
9. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful baked stuffed shrimp with family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before preparing the recipe. The best way is to leave them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a similar flavor. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffed Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through, which will help retain their texture.
Can I Make the Stuffing Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and stuff the shrimp just before you’re ready to bake them. It will save time and still taste delicious!
