Crab-Stuffed Jumbo Shrimp

This crab-stuffed jumbo shrimp recipe delivers a perfect fusion of smoky chipotle flavor with the delicate sweetness of crab and shrimp. The crab mixture, rich in creamy mayonnaise and slightly crispy breadcrumbs, balances perfectly with the bold seasoning on the shrimp. It’s a guaranteed hit for seafood enthusiasts. Ideal for any occasion, this dish not only looks stunning on the plate but also offers versatile serving options, whether as a show-stopping appetizer, the main attraction in shrimp tacos, or a luxurious topping for pasta. Each bite promises a deliciously satisfying experience, enhanced by a drizzle of garlic butter and a refreshing hint of cilantro or parsley. A crowd-pleaser that’s both easy and unforgettable.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds colossal or jumbo shrimp (13-15 count per pound): peeled, deveined, and butterflied
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning (or medium heat Cajun seasoning)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pound lump crabmeat (jumbo lump, claw, or regular lump)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (Italian, panko, or buttery cracker crumbs)
  • 3 tablespoons chipotle sauce (or blended chipotles in adobo)
  • 4 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Squeeze of lemon juice, for garnish
  • 1 teaspoon cilantro, finely chopped, for garnish

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare the shrimp by peeling and butterflying them, leaving the tail on for easier handling.
  3. In a large bowl, toss the shrimp in olive oil, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, black pepper, and sea salt until evenly coated.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix the egg, mayonnaise, and chipotle sauce. Fold in the lump crab meat and then gently incorporate the breadcrumbs.
  5. Place a tablespoon of the crab filling in each shrimp, folding the tail over the top of the stuffing.
  6. Arrange the stuffed shrimp in an oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the shrimp are cooked through and the filling is golden.
  8. Melt the butter in a small saucepan with the minced garlic. Drizzle over the shrimp along with lemon juice and garnish with cilantro or parsley before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes

Kcal: Approx. 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings

The Art of Choosing Shrimp for Stuffing

When making stuffed shrimp, selecting the right size shrimp is crucial. This recipe calls for jumbo or even colossal shrimp, typically sized 13 to 15 per pound. The larger size allows the shrimp to hold a generous portion of crab stuffing without losing its structural integrity. In addition, keeping the tail on not only adds to the dish’s presentation but also provides a convenient handle for serving, particularly when offered as an appetizer. The shrimp, with its slight natural sweetness, complements the crab filling’s depth of flavor, creating a mouthwatering combination.

Crafting the Crab Stuffing

The crab stuffing is the heart of this recipe, offering a blend of textures and flavors that elevate the dish. Made with lump crab meat, mayonnaise, chipotle sauce, breadcrumbs, and a dash of Old Bay seasoning, the filling achieves a balance of creamy richness and subtle crunch. The lump crab is ideal here because it provides a delicate flavor that doesn’t overpower the shrimp, while the chipotle sauce adds a subtle smoky kick that sets this recipe apart from traditional crab-stuffed dishes. Additionally, breadcrumbs are incorporated to lend a slight crispiness to the filling, making each bite interesting and flavorful. For those who prefer a different flavor profile, the recipe can be adapted by substituting chipotle with lemon zest or fresh herbs for a more citrusy or herbaceous twist.

How to Serve Crab-Stuffed Shrimp

This dish is incredibly versatile in terms of serving options. As an appetizer, the crab-stuffed shrimp can be enjoyed right out of the oven with a dip on the side, such as a zesty remoulade sauce, creamy guacamole, or classic melted butter. The stuffing’s rich flavor pairs excellently with dips that add either tang or creaminess. For a more substantial meal, crab-stuffed shrimp can be served on top of pasta with garlic, parmesan, and butter, creating an indulgent seafood pasta dish that feels luxurious yet is relatively simple to prepare. Another creative option is to use the stuffed shrimp as a filling in a seafood taco, perhaps topped with a fresh citrus slaw or guacamole for a delightful fusion of flavors and textures.

Making Crab-Stuffed Shrimp a Crowd-Pleaser

One of the best aspects of crab-stuffed shrimp is its appeal to a wide audience. For those who appreciate a bit of heat, the chipotle sauce in the stuffing adds the right amount of spice without overwhelming the delicate seafood flavors. Meanwhile, the addition of a garlic butter drizzle after baking enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness and brings out the richness of the crab stuffing. For those who might be sensitive to cilantro, an alternative garnish such as fresh parsley or green onions provides a subtle freshness without the characteristic intensity of cilantro.

This dish is also perfect for those following specific diets. It’s naturally low in carbs and high in protein, making it an excellent option for keto and low-carb diets. With slight modifications, such as using gluten-free breadcrumbs, the recipe can be adapted to meet gluten-free dietary needs as well.

Presentation and Garnishing

A key part of the appeal of crab-stuffed shrimp is its beautiful presentation. Each shrimp is stuffed to perfection, with the filling visible yet held in place by the butterflied shrimp. To take the visual appeal up a notch, you can use a cast iron skillet or a brightly colored baking dish, which enhances the rustic yet elegant feel of the dish. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley and a drizzle of garlic butter make the final presentation even more tempting.

The use of lemon juice adds a final touch that brightens the flavors, cutting through the richness of the crab and shrimp. This garnish not only enhances the visual appeal with a pop of yellow but also brings balance to the dish, making each bite refreshing and satisfying. If serving at a gathering, the dish can be brought to the table directly from the oven, allowing guests to enjoy the aroma of freshly baked seafood.

Tips for Storing and Reheating

If by some chance there are leftovers, crab-stuffed shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for one to two days. When reheating, it’s best to use an oven set to a low temperature to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Microwave reheating is generally not recommended, as it can cause the shrimp to become rubbery and detract from the delicate texture of the crab filling. Instead, consider using a toaster oven to gently warm the shrimp, preserving both texture and flavor.

Versatility and Customization

Crab-stuffed shrimp can be easily customized to suit various preferences and ingredients on hand. For a more Mediterranean flavor profile, you might add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or feta cheese to the filling. If you want to increase the spice level, swap in Cajun or Creole seasoning for the Old Bay and add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the crab mixture. Vegetarians looking to create a similar dish could substitute large mushrooms or zucchini boats as the base, stuffing them with a similar crab or vegetable filling.

Conclusion:

Crab-stuffed jumbo shrimp is an impressive, crowd-pleasing dish that blends flavors and textures in a way that few appetizers can. With its smoky chipotle-infused crab stuffing, crispy breadcrumb finish, and tender shrimp, this recipe brings a gourmet touch to the table without requiring overly complex techniques. Whether served as a standalone appetizer, the main component in a pasta or taco dish, or even as part of a seafood platter, crab-stuffed shrimp offers flexibility and elegance for any meal.

Ideal for gatherings or special dinners, it’s a dish that will leave a lasting impression. The garlic butter drizzle and fresh garnishes elevate the experience, making each bite a memorable one. This recipe captures the essence of seafood dining with a touch of comfort and indulgence—making it a timeless favorite that’s bound to become a go-to for any occasion.

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