Are you craving a restaurant-quality meal but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen? Then look no further! This recipe for stuffed shrimp with crab is the perfect solution. It's surprisingly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and elegant enough to impress your guests. This quick dinner idea is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a delicious dish without the fuss. Get ready to elevate your seafood game!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 1/2 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, gently combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, parsley, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is just incorporated – be careful not to overmix, as this can make the crab meat mushy.
Stuff the Shrimp:
- Carefully make a shallow slit lengthwise down the back of each shrimp, being careful not to cut all the way through. Gently open the shrimp and spoon the crab mixture into each one.
Bake to Perfection:
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In an oven-safe skillet, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Arrange the stuffed shrimp in the skillet.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the filling is heated through. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Tips for Success:
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Using fresh, high-quality crab meat will significantly impact the flavor of your dish.
- Don't Overstuff: Overstuffing the shrimp can cause them to burst during baking. Aim for a generous but manageable amount of filling.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. A dash of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick!
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.
Variations:
- Add some spice: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the crab mixture for a spicy twist.
- Herby Delight: Experiment with different fresh herbs, such as chives or dill, instead of or in addition to parsley.
- Cheese Please: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before baking adds a delightful salty, cheesy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This easy recipe for stuffed shrimp with crab is a surefire way to impress your family and friends. It's a fantastic healthy meal option that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the delicious results of your homemade cooking!