Stuffed Shrimp Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Seafood Delight
Are you looking for a delicious and impressive seafood recipe that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This stuffed shrimp recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's packed with flavor and guaranteed to impress your friends and family. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (16-20 count)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, panko recommended for a crispier texture
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Optional: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Shrimp:
- Butterfly the shrimp: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a slit lengthwise along the back of each shrimp, almost all the way through. Be careful not to cut all the way through! This creates a pocket for the stuffing.
- Season the Shrimp: Gently season the shrimp with salt and pepper both inside and out.
Making the Stuffing:
- Combine ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well. If using, add red pepper flakes now.
- Stuff the shrimp: Carefully spoon the stuffing into the slit of each shrimp, filling the pocket generously.
Cooking the Stuffed Shrimp:
There are a few ways to cook these delicious shrimp:
Method 1: Pan-frying (Recommended):
- Melt butter: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the shrimp: Carefully place the stuffed shrimp in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and cooked through. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Method 2: Baking:
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange shrimp: Place the stuffed shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your stuffed shrimp immediately. They are delicious on their own, but can also be paired with:
- A side of lemon wedges for extra zest.
- A simple salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread to soak up any delicious pan juices.
- Rice pilaf or another grain-based side.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overstuff the shrimp: Overstuffed shrimp may burst during cooking.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality shrimp will make a big difference in the flavor.
- Check for doneness: Shrimp cook quickly, so it's important to check for doneness to avoid overcooking.
This stuffed shrimp recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy! Remember to share your culinary creations with us using #StuffedShrimpRecipe!
