Are you craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices? Then look no further! This recipe for crab-stuffed shrimp is the perfect solution. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and delivers an explosion of flavor in every bite. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this elegant yet simple dish – perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to dive into a world of delicious homemade cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (leave tails on)
- 1/2 cup lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons bread crumbs (panko recommended)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Lemon wedges, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, gently combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, bread crumbs, parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the crab meat mushy.
Step 2: Stuff the Shrimp
Gently cut a shallow slit lengthwise along the back of each shrimp, being careful not to cut all the way through. Using a small spoon or knife, carefully stuff the shrimp with the crab mixture.
Step 3: Sear the Shrimp
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted, carefully place the stuffed shrimp in the skillet. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, and the filling is heated. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to cook the shrimp in batches.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the crab-stuffed shrimp immediately. Garnish with a lemon wedge, if desired. This dish pairs perfectly with rice, a simple salad, or roasted vegetables.
Tips for the Best Crab Stuffed Shrimp:
- Buy high-quality crab meat: The better the crab meat, the better the flavor of your dish. Look for lump crab meat, which is the most flavorful.
- Don't overstuff the shrimp: Too much filling can cause the shrimp to break apart during cooking.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of Old Bay seasoning or other spices to your preference.
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a hint of spice.
Variations:
- Spicy Crab Stuffed Shrimp: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Crab Stuffed Shrimp: Substitute sour cream or Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise for a richer, creamier filling.
- Cheesy Crab Stuffed Shrimp: Sprinkle some shredded Parmesan cheese on top of the shrimp before searing for a cheesy finish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate for one serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 8-12g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
This healthy meal is a quick dinner idea and a great way to enjoy delicious dishes. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and best recipes. Enjoy this simple yet impressive seafood creation!