Stuffed Shrimp Delight

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If you’re looking to create a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress your guests, this Stuffed Shrimp Delight recipe is the perfect choice. Combining tender shrimp with a rich, flavorful filling of lump crab meat, fresh spinach, and a melty blend of cheeses, these shrimp are a luxurious yet easy-to-make dish that’s perfect as an appetizer or even a main course. The golden, crispy exterior and the savory filling inside create an unforgettable bite. Paired with a refreshing citrusy salad or a glass of chilled white wine, this recipe is destined to become a favorite at any dinner party, family gathering, or special occasion.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

  • 16 jumbo shrimp (16–20 count), peeled, deveined, and butterflied

  • 1 cup lump crab meat, cooked and drained

  • 1 cup fresh baby spinach, cooked and drained

  • ½ cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped

  • ½ cup mayonnaise

  • ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs

  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ½ cup shredded pepper jack cheese

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon paprika

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • Juice of 1 lemon

  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted

  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)

Directions

This recipe might look like a complex dish, but don’t worry—once you follow the steps, you’ll see just how simple and delicious it can be to create this gourmet appetizer or main course. Here’s a breakdown of each step to ensure the best results:

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

  • Preheat the Oven: Before you start prepping the shrimp, make sure to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your stuffed shrimp will cook evenly and quickly.

  • Butterfly the Shrimp: Using a sharp knife, carefully butterfly the shrimp by slicing along the back without cutting all the way through. This allows you to create a pocket for the delicious stuffing. Ensure that the shrimp stays intact while you cut.

  • Place on a Baking Sheet: Arrange the butterflied shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This makes for easy cleanup and prevents the shrimp from sticking.

Step 2: Make the Filling

  • Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the lump crab meat, cooked spinach, chopped artichokes, mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, shredded mozzarella cheese, and shredded pepper jack cheese. This combination creates a creamy, cheesy base that’s rich in flavor.

  • Add Flavor Enhancers: Stir in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and paprika. These ingredients give the stuffing an extra layer of depth, with a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and a touch of spice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

  • Blend Well: Mix the ingredients together until the filling is well combined. The result should be a thick, creamy mixture that will hold together nicely when stuffed into the shrimp.

Step 3: Stuff the Shrimp

  • Stuff Each Shrimp: Using a spoon, take a generous amount of the crab and cheese mixture and stuff it into each butterflied shrimp. You want to fill the shrimp generously but avoid overstuffing. Gently press the mixture into the shrimp to ensure it stays in place.

  • Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Once all the shrimp are stuffed, arrange them back on the baking sheet. Be sure to space them out so that they bake evenly.

Step 4: Bake the Shrimp

  • Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle the stuffed shrimp with olive oil. This helps to brown the shrimp and gives them a crispy texture while baking.

  • Bake in the Oven: Place the shrimp into the preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the filling is golden and bubbling. Keep an eye on the shrimp, as cooking times can vary depending on their size.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

  • Prepare the Finishing Sauce: While the shrimp are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan. Once melted, add the juice of 1 lemon and a handful of fresh dill (optional) to give it a bright, zesty flavor. Stir to combine.

  • Serve: Once the shrimp are done baking, drizzle the lemon-dill butter sauce over the top of the stuffed shrimp before serving. This adds an extra burst of flavor and makes the dish even more decadent.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15–18 minutes

Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving

Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Shrimp

While this recipe is straightforward, there are a few tricks and tips that will help elevate your dish and ensure perfect results every time:

1. Shrimp Size Matters

Use jumbo shrimp for easier stuffing and better presentation. Smaller shrimp can work, but they may be more difficult to stuff, and you won’t get the same dramatic effect when they’re plated. Jumbo shrimp also provide a meatier bite and are more satisfying.

2. Make Ahead

If you’re short on time, prep the stuffed shrimp ahead of time. You can prepare the filling, stuff the shrimp, and then refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This also allows the flavors to meld together, making the dish even more flavorful.

3. Cheese Variations

While mozzarella and pepper jack are delicious, you can experiment with other cheeses to customize the flavor. Try smoked gouda for a smoky touch, or sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. Feel free to get creative and find the perfect cheese combination for your taste.

4. Citrusy and Fresh

This dish pairs beautifully with a citrusy arugula salad. The peppery bite of arugula, combined with a citrus vinaigrette, adds freshness that balances the rich, cheesy shrimp. A chilled glass of white wine—such as a Sauvignon Blanc—complements this meal perfectly.

5. Watch the Baking Time

Shrimp cook quickly, and they can become tough if overcooked. Keep an eye on them while they’re baking. Once the shrimp are pink and the stuffing is golden, they’re ready to come out of the oven.

Conclusion: A Crowd-Pleasing Delight

This Stuffed Shrimp Delight is an easy-to-make yet impressive dish that combines the best of both worlds: simplicity and elegance. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer for a dinner party or as a main course, it’s sure to leave your guests asking for more. The combination of tender shrimp, creamy stuffing, and zesty lemon-dill butter is simply irresistible. Add it to your recipe collection today, and enjoy a taste of gourmet cuisine right at home!

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