Name: Decadent Stuffed Shrimp: Your New Favorite Holiday Appetizer
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 16-20 pieces Shrimp, large, deveined, butterflied (21-25 shrimp can work too.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Can substitute with melted butter.); 1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning (Can swap with a seafood seasoning blend.); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Use regular paprika for less intensity.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh minced garlic works well too.); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Feel free to omit if preferred.); 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (Substitute with individual herbs.); 1 teaspoon Pepper (Adjust according to your taste.); 8 ounces Crab Meat (Fresh or canned crab works perfectly.); 1 cup Cooked Spinach (Use frozen, well-drained spinach for convenience.); 6 ounces Artichokes (Canned or marinated fit well.); 1 cup Mayonnaise (Can also use sour cream or cream cheese.); 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (Yellow mustard can be a milder alternative.); 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce (You can skip if not available.); 1/2 cup Italian Breadcrumbs (Gluten-free breadcrumbs can work too.); 8 ounces Cheese (Mozzarella or pepperjack provides creaminess.); 1 tablespoon Minced Garlic (Feel free to use garlic powder if necessary.); 1 teaspoon Dried Herbs (Fresh herbs offer a fresher taste.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice (Fresh is preferred over bottled.); Lemon Zest (Choose non-treated lemons for best flavor.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of sautéed garlic and succulent shrimp danced through the air, making my mouth water. That’s the moment I knew I had to share this recipe for Crab Stuffed Shrimp with you. This elegant seafood appetizer is not only a feast for the eyes but also a breeze to create, making it perfect for festive gatherings or cozy family meals. With a rich, savory stuffing that you can easily customize, these stuffed shrimp promise to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they bake up beautifully in just about 30 minutes, letting you enjoy a homemade delight without spending hours in the kitchen. Curious how to elevate your dinner table with this delicious dish? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Is This Stuffed Shrimp Special?

Simplicity at Its Finest: This recipe is incredibly straightforward, requiring just a few simple steps to achieve stunning results.

Flavor Explosion: The savory stuffing of crab, spinach, and cheese delivers a delightful flavor that will excite your taste buds.

Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap the crab for lobster or shrimp, or even go vegetarian with mushrooms and nuts, catering to diverse preferences.

Elegant Presentation: These stuffed shrimp look sophisticated on any dish, making them the perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings or special occasions.

Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from oven to table, you can impress your guests without the stress of a lengthy cooking process.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Everyone loves seafood, and these stuffed shrimp always leave people coming back for more, making them a must-try for any dinner party! Plus, if you love seafood classics, check out these Bang Bang Shrimp and Garlic Shrimp Over for more delicious options.

Stuffed Shrimp Ingredients

For the Shrimp
• 16-20 Shrimp – Choose large, deveined, butterflied shrimp for a robust base; 21-25 shrimp can work too.
• Olive Oil – Helps season the shrimp; melted butter or any cooking oil can be a great substitute.
• Old Bay Seasoning – Offers classic seafood flavor; swap it for a seafood seasoning blend if needed.
• Smoked Paprika – Adds a rich, smoky note; for less intensity, use regular paprika.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavors; fresh minced garlic works well for a punchier taste.
• Onion Powder – Deepens the seasoning; feel free to omit it if preferred.
• Italian Seasoning – Provides a mix of herbs; substitute with individual herbs like basil or oregano.
• Pepper – Adds a mild heat; adjust according to your taste.

For the Filling
• Crab Meat (8 oz) – The star of the stuffing; fresh or canned crab works perfectly; swap with lobster for a special touch.
• Cooked Spinach (1 cup) – Blends seamlessly for a nutritious boost; use frozen spinach, well-drained for convenience.
• Artichokes (6 oz) – Adds unique texture and flavor; canned or marinated artichokes fit well.
• Mayonnaise (1 cup) – Acts as a binding agent; sour cream or cream cheese can also be used for creaminess.
• Dijon Mustard (1 tbsp) – Introduces a tangy element for depth; yellow mustard can be a milder alternative.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 tsp) – Provides umami flavor; you can skip it if you don’t have it on hand.
• Italian Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup) – Adds texture; gluten-free breadcrumbs can work too.
• Cheese (8 oz) – Mozzarella or pepperjack provides creaminess; any melty cheese like cheddar can be substituted.
• Minced Garlic (1 tbsp) – Intensifies the garlic flavor; feel free to use garlic powder if that’s what you have.
• Dried Herbs (1 tsp) – Boosts the overall flavor; fresh herbs are great for a fresher taste.
• Fresh Lemon Juice (1 tbsp) – Brightens the dish; while bottled works, fresh is always preferred!
• Lemon Zest – Adds freshness; choose non-treated lemons for the best flavor.

Try this easy and elegant Stuffed Shrimp recipe for your next gathering, and watch your guests savor every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Stuffed Shrimp

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for ensuring that your Crab Stuffed Shrimp bake evenly and develop a golden, crispy top. While the oven heats, prepare your shrimp to ensure a seamless cooking process.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and pepper to create a flavorful seasoning blend. Coat each butterflied shrimp with this mixture, ensuring they’re evenly covered. This step infuses the shrimp with delightful flavors as they cook in the oven.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the crab meat, chopped cooked spinach, chopped artichokes, mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, cheese, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and dried herbs. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until well incorporated. The filling should be creamy and packed with flavor, ready to elevate your Crab Stuffed Shrimp.

Step 4: Stuff the Shrimp
Spoon the prepared filling generously into each butterflied shrimp, ensuring they are well packed but not overflowing. Press down gently to help the filling adhere during baking. This is the heart of your elegant dish, giving each bite a burst of flavor and texture.

Step 5: Bake the Stuffed Shrimp
Arrange the stuffed shrimp on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring they’re spaced out for even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the shrimp are fully cooked and the filling turns golden brown. You’ll know they’re ready when the shrimp are opaque and firm to the touch.

Step 6: Serve with a Drizzle of Sauce
Once baked, remove the shrimp from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle with a garlic butter dill sauce made from melted butter, minced garlic, and fresh dill before serving. This finishing touch will elevate your Crab Stuffed Shrimp, making them irresistible to your guests.

Expert Tips for Stuffed Shrimp

Drain Spinach Well: After cooking, ensure your spinach is thoroughly drained. This prevents a watery filling, keeping your stuffed shrimp perfectly intact.
Broil for Golden Finish: For an elegant touch, broil the stuffed shrimp for the last minute of baking. This adds a beautiful golden crust that’s visually stunning.
Taste as You Go: Before stuffing, taste the filling mixture and adjust the seasonings to your preference. This ensures your stuffed shrimp are packed with flavors you love.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh crab and spinach elevate the dish immensely, lending taste and texture that frozen or canned alternatives may lack.
Check Shrimp Size: Opt for large, butterflied shrimp to hold the filling well. Smaller shrimp may not provide enough base for this elegant dish, affecting presentation.

Storage Tips for Stuffed Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftover stuffed shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are sealed well to preserve flavor and freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked stuffed shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating: Reheat stuffed shrimp in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This method keeps the shrimp tender and the filling warm without losing texture.

Serving Cold: If you enjoy them chilled, allow the stuffed shrimp to cool completely and serve them on a platter with fresh lemon wedges for a delightful seafood appetizer.

Make Ahead Options

These Crab Stuffed Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix together the crab meat, spinach, artichokes, mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, cheese, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain quality and flavor, be sure to cover it tightly and keep it chilled. The shrimp can be seasoned and stuffed just before baking for best results. When ready to serve, stuff the shrimp with your prepared filling and bake for 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown. You’ll have a deliciously elegant appetizer with minimal last-minute effort!

Stuffed Shrimp Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to put your own spin on this delicious stuffed shrimp recipe and make it uniquely yours!

Seafood Swap: Substitute crab meat with shrimp, scallops, or lobster for an exciting seafood twist.
Vegetarian Option: Replace seafood with a mixture of chopped mushrooms, nuts, and additional cheese for a hearty vegetarian filling.
Cheesy Delight: Fold in extra cheese like ricotta or goat cheese for an even creamier filling that melts in your mouth.
Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling for a delightful heat that balances the richness.
Flavorful Herbs: Try substituting dried herbs with fresh herbs such as dill or cilantro to elevate the flavor profile of each bite.
Crispy Topping: For a crunchy twist, top the stuffed shrimp with crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs before baking to add texture and a delightful crunch.
Citrus Burst: Drizzle a bit of fresh lemon or lime juice over the shrimp right before serving for a refreshing zesty finish.
Elegant Fusion: Serve your stuffed shrimp along with a side of Garlic Shrimp Over for another layer of shrimp goodness that will impress your guests!

Whether you choose to follow the classic recipe or inspire a new variation, enjoy experimenting with flavors that resonate with your taste buds!

What to Serve with Crab Stuffed Shrimp

Elevate your dining experience by pairing the delightful flavors of your dish with complementary sides and drinks that enhance its seafood elegance.

Garlic Butter Pasta: This rich, buttery pasta enhances the shrimp’s flavors while providing a comforting, velvety contrast. A sprinkling of fresh herbs can brighten the dish even further.
Crisp Garden Salad: A refreshing salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette cleanses the palate and adds a vibrant, crunchy element.
Lemon Rice Pilaf: The zesty notes of lemon rice complement the shrimp while offering a fluffy, satisfying base that absorbs the rich flavors of the dish beautifully.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds a lovely crunch and earthiness, creating a colorful plate that takes the elegance up a notch.
Mango Salsa: This fruity salsa brings a sweet and tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the savory shrimp, creating a delightful interplay of tastes.
Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: A chilled glass of these white wines accentuates the seafood notes, enhancing the overall dining experience with its crisp and refreshing qualities.
Chocolate Mousse: Finish off your meal on a sweet note with a rich, creamy chocolate mousse, offering a luscious richness that balances the savory flavors of your main dish.

Crab Stuffed Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for crab stuffed shrimp?
Absolutely! I recommend using large, deveined, and butterflied shrimp for the best results. Look for shrimp sized 16-20 or 21-25, as they provide a robust base for the stuffing and maintain their texture during baking.

How long can I store leftover crab stuffed shrimp?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure they are well-sealed to preserve flavor and freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, a gentle reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 15-20 minutes will ensure they remain tender.

Can I freeze crab stuffed shrimp, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the cooked stuffed shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After they are frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, you can reheat them directly from frozen, just add an extra few minutes to the baking time.

What if my crab stuffed shrimp filling is too watery?
Very common! If you find your filling is too watery, make sure to thoroughly drain and squeeze excess moisture from the spinach before adding it to the mix. You can also add a bit more breadcrumbs to help absorb any extra moisture and give the filling a better texture. Experimenting with the consistency is key here, so feel free to adjust!

Are there any dietary considerations with crab stuffed shrimp?
Indeed! When preparing crab stuffed shrimp, be mindful of allergies. Crab is a common allergen, so if you’re serving guests, it’s wise to check for any seafood allergies. For a vegetarian alternative, omit the crab and substitute it with a mix of mushrooms, nuts, and extra cheese for a flavorful stuffing that everyone can enjoy.

How do I know when crab stuffed shrimp are fully cooked?
You can tell they’re done when the shrimp are opaque and firm to the touch, and the filling is golden brown. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). If you like, you can also broil them for an additional minute for a picturesque golden finish!