Chicago Shrimp
Chicago Shrimp features tender shrimp cooked in a rich butter and sherry sauce, topped with toasted breadcrumbs. Perfect for seafood lovers and elegant dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook, peel, and devein the shrimp.
- Cut each shrimp in half lengthwise and overlap them in an au gratin dish.
- Mix butter, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, salt, tarragon, and sherry in a saucepan and heat thoroughly.
- Pour the sauce over the shrimp.
- Top with soft breadcrumbs and broil until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using garlic butter instead of regular butter. You can also substitute the tarragon with dill if that's what you have on hand. To save time, use pre-cooked shrimp, but adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking. If you prefer a crunchier topping, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicago Shrimp hot, garnished with additional parsley for color. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. Consider serving it alongside a light white wine or a crisp salad to balance the richness of the shrimp and butter sauce. For other delicious seafood recipes, check out the Seafood Casserole Deluxe.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the shrimp in a broiler-safe dish and broil for a few minutes until heated through and the topping is crispy again. Avoid microwaving to maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicago Shrimp contains roughly 704 calories, with 20g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (57% of the Daily Value), protein (41% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2899mg per serving (126% of the Daily Value).
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 frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps avoid a rubbery texture. Submerge them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes, or leave them in the refrigerator overnight for a slower thaw.
What type of breadcrumbs should I use?
Soft breadcrumbs work best for this recipe as they create a light topping that soaks up the flavors. However, you can use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch. Just remember to adjust the broiling time, as panko can brown faster than regular soft breadcrumbs.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time. Assemble the dish without the breadcrumbs and cover it tightly. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, add the breadcrumbs and broil as directed for a fresh, hot meal.
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).