Butterflied Shrimp Rockefeller
Butterflied Shrimp Rockefeller features tender shrimp topped with a flavorful spinach and shallot mixture, baked to perfection. Elegant and savory, perfect for special occasions or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a 2 to 3-quart saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced shallots or onions, dry basil leaves, pepper, and crushed fennel seed.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is tender.
- Squeeze liquid from the thawed chopped spinach.
- Add the spinach to the shallot mixture and stir until heated through, about 3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in mayonnaise and lemon juice.
- Peel the shrimp, leaving the tail shell on.
- Butterfly the shrimp by slitting the underside from tail to head almost through and flattening.
- Arrange the shrimp on a lightly oiled baking sheet.
- Spoon about a tablespoon of the spinach mixture onto each shrimp.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Let stand at room temperature while preheating the oven.
- Bake in a 425°F oven until the surface of the shrimp is completely white (tail will be coral pink), about 5 to 6 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic to the shallot mixture. If you don't have frozen spinach, fresh spinach can be used; just sauté until wilted. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter option. If you want a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish. Ensure the shrimp are deveined for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
These shrimp make a stunning appetizer or main dish. Serve them alongside a light salad or over a bed of pasta for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with a glass of white wine. For a fun twist, serve them with a side of Quick Shrimp Dip for dipping. Consider adding a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Butterflied Shrimp Rockefeller can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butterflied Shrimp Rockefeller contains roughly 2754 calories, with 3g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 301g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh shrimp can be used in this recipe. Make sure they are peeled and deveined before butterflying. Fresh shrimp will provide a slightly different texture but will still be delicious. Adjust cooking time slightly if using larger shrimp.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, plain Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for mayonnaise. It adds creaminess without the extra calories. You can also use a homemade aioli or a vegan mayo if you're looking for dairy-free options.
How can I tell when the shrimp are done cooking?
The shrimp are done when they turn completely white and opaque, with the tail remaining a coral pink. Typically, this takes about 5 to 6 minutes in a 425°F oven. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).