Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe that will impress your family and friends? Look no further! This baked stuffed shrimp recipe is your answer. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and offers a burst of fresh flavors in every bite. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times – this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this stunning and satisfying dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels; this helps them brown nicely.
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Prepare the Stuffing: In a medium bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, chives, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice and mix gently until everything is well incorporated.
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Stuff the Shrimp: Gently spoon the stuffing into the center of each shrimp. Don't overfill, as the stuffing might fall out during baking.
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Bake to Perfection: Arrange the stuffed shrimp in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with melted butter. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the stuffing is golden brown and heated through.
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Serve & Enjoy: Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and let the shrimp rest for a couple of minutes before serving. These baked stuffed shrimp are delightful on their own or served with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shrimp:
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Don't Overstuff: Overfilling the shrimp can cause them to burst during baking. Aim for a generous but not overflowing amount of stuffing.
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Fresh Herbs are Key: Using fresh parsley and chives significantly enhances the flavor profile. If you don't have fresh herbs, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried herbs each.
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Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and lemon juice to suit your preferences.
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Check for Doneness: Shrimp cook quickly, so it's crucial to check for doneness to avoid overcooking. They should be pink and opaque throughout.
Variations:
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Spicy Stuffed Shrimp: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stuffing for a spicy kick.
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Cheesy Stuffed Shrimp: Increase the amount of Parmesan cheese or add other cheeses like mozzarella or Asiago.
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Mediterranean Stuffed Shrimp: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese into the stuffing for a Mediterranean twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on shrimp size and stuffing amount)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low
This baked stuffed shrimp recipe is a perfect example of how easy and delicious healthy meals can be. It's a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of succulent shrimp and flavorful stuffing is guaranteed to impress your taste buds. Enjoy experimenting with different variations to find your perfect stuffed shrimp recipe!