Introduction
When it comes to creating an elegant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home, Stuffed Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Butter is a crowd-pleaser. This dish combines succulent jumbo shrimp, a savory stuffing, and a rich lemon garlic butter sauce that enhances every bite. Follow this recipe to impress your guests or elevate your next seafood night.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Luxurious Yet Simple
This recipe offers a gourmet touch with its rich flavors and elegant presentation, yet it’s straightforward enough for even beginner cooks to master. You’ll feel like a top chef without the stress.
2. Bursting with Fresh Flavors
The combination of succulent shrimp, tangy lemon, and buttery garlic creates a harmony of flavors that’s fresh, bright, and utterly satisfying.
3. Versatile for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, this dish fits the bill. It’s sophisticated yet casual enough to enjoy on a weeknight.
4. Customizable for All Palates
From adding crab meat to the stuffing to adjusting the spice level with red pepper flakes, this recipe can be tailored to suit your taste preferences.
5. Health-Conscious Indulgence
With lean protein from the shrimp and wholesome ingredients in the stuffing, this dish provides a balanced, indulgent option without being overly heavy.
6. Pairs Beautifully with Sides
This recipe complements a variety of side dishes, making it easy to create a complete meal that feels special and satisfying.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need a mix of fresh seafood and pantry staples. Here’s the full list:
Shrimp:
- 1 lb jumbo shrimp (16-20 count), peeled and deveined, tails on
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
Stuffing:
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko or Italian-style)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Butterfly the shrimp by slicing down the back without cutting all the way through. Gently press to flatten, creating a cavity for the stuffing.
- Place the shrimp on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Set aside.
2. Make the Stuffing
- In a mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and melted butter. Mix until the stuffing holds together but is not overly wet.
- Spoon a small amount of stuffing into the cavity of each shrimp, pressing gently to secure.
3. Bake the Shrimp
- Arrange the stuffed shrimp on the prepared baking tray.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and the stuffing is golden.
4. Prepare the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
- While the shrimp bake, melt butter in a small skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Stir in lemon juice, zest, parsley, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat.
5. Serve
- Arrange the baked stuffed shrimp on a platter. Drizzle generously with the warm lemon garlic butter sauce.
- Garnish with additional parsley and lemon slices for an elegant presentation.
Tips for Success
- Choose Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor, opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp.
- Customize the Stuffing: Add crab meat, chopped spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the stuffing for a unique twist.
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid a rubbery texture.
Nutritional Information
(Per serving, approximately based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 750mg
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well for this recipe. Make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before peeling and deveining.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the stuffed shrimp and store them in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours before baking. Add the sauce fresh when ready to serve.
3. What can I use as a substitute for breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, ground oats, or almond flour can work as substitutes.
4. Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, replace butter with a plant-based alternative and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free substitute.
5. How can I make the stuffing gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for a delicious, gluten-free version of this dish.
6. Can I grill the shrimp instead of baking them?
Absolutely! Place the stuffed shrimp on a grill-safe tray and cook over medium heat for 6-8 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and the stuffing is golden.
Conclusion
Stuffed Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Butter is a perfect blend of elegance, flavor, and simplicity. Its vibrant lemon garlic butter sauce complements the savory stuffing, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or impressing guests at a dinner party, this recipe offers the versatility and sophistication to shine on any occasion.
By using fresh ingredients and following the straightforward steps, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen. The customizable stuffing and the irresistible sauce ensure that every bite is memorable. Serve it with your favorite sides, pair it with a crisp white wine, and enjoy the ultimate seafood experience.
Try this recipe today—you’ll love how easy it is to make and how delicious it is to eat. Bon appétit!