Are you ready to elevate your seafood game? Forget bland, boring shrimp – we're diving into a world of flavor with this incredibly easy and delicious baked stuffed shrimp recipe. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a sophisticated appetizer, or even a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering. Get ready to impress yourself and your guests with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
This recipe yields approximately 12 stuffed shrimp. Adjust quantities based on your needs.
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For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (21-25 count per pound is ideal)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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For the Stuffing:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely in the oven. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Make the Stuffing
In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, parsley, red onion, garlic, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, melted butter, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Stuff the Shrimp
Gently make a shallow slit lengthwise down the back of each shrimp, being careful not to cut all the way through. Spoon the stuffing evenly into the slit of each shrimp.
Step 4: Bake the Stuffed Shrimp
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shrimp in the baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the stuffing is golden brown and heated through. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the baked stuffed shrimp immediately. They are fantastic on their own or as part of a larger meal. A simple side salad or some crusty bread is the perfect accompaniment.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overstuff the shrimp: Too much stuffing can prevent them from cooking evenly.
- Use fresh ingredients: The flavor of this dish relies heavily on the freshness of the ingredients.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs, spices, and lemon juice to suit your preferences.
- For extra flavor: Marinate the shrimp in a little lemon juice and garlic for 30 minutes before stuffing.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the stuffing for extra heat.
- Herby Shrimp: Experiment with different fresh herbs, such as chives, dill, or thyme.
- Cheesy Shrimp: Increase the amount of Parmesan cheese or add a sprinkle of mozzarella or provolone before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-180 Protein: Approximately 15-20g Fat: Approximately 8-10g Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-7g
This healthy meal is a delicious and easy way to enjoy shrimp! These quick dinner ideas are perfect for busy weeknights, making this one of the best recipes for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Enjoy!