The shrimp sensation: elevate your seafood game with our mouthwatering stuffed baked shrimp recipe.

Indulge in the culinary masterpiece of stuffed baked shrimp, a tantalizing dish that combines succulent shrimp with a flavorful stuffing and a crispy, golden crust. This recipe is a symphony of flavors and textures, promising an unforgettable dining experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds

Instructions:

1. Prepare the stuffing: Combine bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, onion, celery, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Mix well until combined.
2. Stuff the shrimp: Make a slit down the back of each shrimp and carefully fill with the prepared stuffing.
3. Dip in butter: Dip each stuffed shrimp into the melted butter.
4. Coat with almonds: Roll each shrimp in chopped almonds to create a crispy coating.
5. Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Broil (optional): For a golden crust, broil shrimp for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking.

Tips:

• For a richer flavor, use jumbo shrimp.
• Add a dash of garlic powder or paprika to the stuffing for extra seasoning.
• Serve with melted butter, lemon wedges, or your favorite dipping sauce.
• If you don’t have almonds, you can use chopped walnuts or panko breadcrumbs as a coating.

Variations:

• Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Shrimp: Combine crabmeat with the shrimp stuffing for a seafood medley.
• Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Shrimp: Add chopped spinach and artichoke hearts to the stuffing for a creamy and savory twist.
• Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Shrimp: Wrap each stuffed shrimp with a strip of bacon before baking for a smoky and crispy addition.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve stuffed shrimp with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or carrots for a healthy and flavorful meal.
• Pasta Salad: Pair with a refreshing pasta salad made with grilled vegetables, feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette.
• White Wine: Complement the delicate flavors of stuffed shrimp with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.

Benefits of Stuffed Baked Shrimp:

• Rich in Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Low in Calories: Stuffed shrimp is relatively low in calories, making it a healthy choice for weight management.
• Good Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Shrimp contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.

Final Note:

Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure with this tantalizing stuffed baked shrimp recipe. Its succulent shrimp, flavorful stuffing, and crispy coating will leave you craving for more. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a main course, this dish is guaranteed to impress your guests and become a favorite in your kitchen.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Thaw them completely before stuffing and baking.
Q: How do I know when the shrimp are cooked through?
A: The shrimp will turn pink and opaque when cooked through. You can also insert a toothpick into the thickest part of the shrimp; it should come out clean.
Q: Can I make the stuffing ahead of time?
A: Yes, the stuffing can be prepared up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Q: What is a good substitute for bread crumbs in the stuffing?
A: You can use crushed crackers, rice, or even mashed potatoes as a substitute for bread crumbs.
Q: Can I bake the shrimp in a different way?
A: Yes, you can grill or pan-fry the shrimp instead of baking. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.