Stuffed Shrimp
Stuffed shrimp featuring a flavorful crab and bread filling, lightly seasoned and fried to golden perfection. This dish combines the sweetness of shrimp with savory crab meat, making it ideal for seafood lovers and special occasions. Crispy, tender, and rich in flavor, it’s sure to impress guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the finely chopped onion, green pepper, and celery in butter until tender.
- Soak the crumbled bread in milk.
- Combine the sauteed vegetables, soaked bread, and crab meat.
- Mix thoroughly and season with salt, pepper, and a dash of cayenne.
- Split the raw shrimp almost in half, leaving the tail on.
- Stuff each shrimp with the crab meat mixture and press the halves together.
- Dip the stuffed shrimp in seasoned flour, then in beaten eggs.
- Roll the shrimp in cracker meal.
- Deep fry in hot fat at about 375°F until golden brown.
- Serve hot with your preferred sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic to the sautéed vegetables. If fresh crab meat is unavailable, canned crab meat can be a convenient substitute. To enhance the crunch, you could use panko breadcrumbs instead of cracker meal. Remember to keep the oil temperature consistent while frying to achieve that perfect golden brown color.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed shrimp hot with a side of tangy cocktail sauce or a fresh lemon wedge to brighten the dish. They pair beautifully with a crisp green salad or a light pasta dish. For a seafood-themed meal, consider serving them alongside Crab Mousse or other seafood recipes to impress your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through, to maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Shrimp contains roughly 1587 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 168g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% 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 make the stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to stuff the shrimp and fry them just before serving for the best texture.
What if I don't have large shrimp?
If large shrimp are not available, you can use medium shrimp, but adjust your cooking time accordingly, as smaller shrimp may cook faster. Just be careful not to overcook them.
Can I bake the stuffed shrimp instead of frying them?
Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F, place the stuffed shrimp on a greased baking sheet, and spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
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).