Are you craving a delicious, elegant meal that's surprisingly easy to make at home? Look no further! This Cowesett Inn Baked Stuffed Shrimp recipe brings the coastal charm of a fine-dining experience straight to your kitchen. Imagine succulent shrimp, plump with a savory breadcrumb stuffing, baked to golden perfection. This recipe is perfect for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or simply a delightful weeknight treat. It’s one of those healthy meals that feels incredibly indulgent – the best of both worlds!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (21-25 count per pound)
- 1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your shrimp bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
Prepare the Stuffing: In a medium bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, melted butter, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumb mixture. This simple yet flavorful stuffing is the key to this dish's success.
Stuff the Shrimp: Gently loosen the tail section of each shrimp to create a little pocket. Spoon a generous amount of the breadcrumb mixture into each shrimp, ensuring it's snug but not overflowing. Avoid overfilling; the stuffing will expand slightly during baking.
Bake to Perfection: Arrange the stuffed shrimp in a single layer in a baking dish lightly greased with olive oil. Drizzle the shrimp with lemon juice and a touch more olive oil. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the stuffing is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them; ovens can vary!
Serve and Enjoy: Serve these delightful baked stuffed shrimp immediately. They are fantastic on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of rice pilaf, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete and healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for Success:
- Buy quality shrimp: Using fresh, high-quality shrimp will significantly impact the overall taste of your dish.
- Don't overstuff: Overstuffed shrimp may burst during baking.
- Adjust seasoning to your liking: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to suit your preferences.
- Check for doneness: Overcooked shrimp will become tough, so check for doneness around the 12-minute mark.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick. This is a fantastic way to add some heat for those who enjoy a bit of a fiery flavor!
- Lemon Herb Shrimp: Increase the amount of fresh herbs like dill or oregano for a brighter, more herbaceous flavor profile.
- Cheese Lover's Delight: Add a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese on top of the stuffed shrimp before baking for extra cheesy goodness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fat: Approximately 8-12g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This Cowesett Inn Baked Stuffed Shrimp recipe offers a simple yet sophisticated way to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal. It's a perfect recipe for those looking for easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, and homemade cooking without sacrificing flavor or elegance. Enjoy this delightful dish!