This Crab Stuffed Shrimp with Sauce recipe offers a decadent restaurant-quality meal you can prepare at home. Juicy, colossal shrimp are stuffed with a flavorful crab mixture and served with a creamy Cajun sauce. Perfect as an appetizer, entree, or an indulgent side dish, this recipe is a sure crowd-pleaser that’s both elegant and economical.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Shrimp:
- 2 lbs jumbo shrimp, peeled, deveined, and butterflied
- 1 lb real crab meat
- ¼ cup mayo
- ¼ cup red bell peppers, finely diced
- ¼ cup green bell peppers, finely diced
- 8 Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1½ tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cream Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper (optional)
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). - Prepare the Bell Peppers:
Heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced green and red bell peppers and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Lightly season with salt and pepper. - Mix Crab Filling:
In a large bowl, combine mayo, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, egg, lemon juice, cooked peppers, and crushed Ritz crackers. Mix thoroughly. Fold in the crab meat and set aside. - Prepare the Shrimp:
Arrange the butterflied shrimp in an oven-safe dish with tails facing up. Lightly season with salt and pepper. Add about 1 tbsp of crab filling to each shrimp and brush with melted butter. - Bake the Shrimp:
Bake for 15 minutes or until the shrimp turn completely pink. Broil for 1-2 minutes for additional color. - Prepare the Cream Sauce:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tbsp of butter. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper, cooking for about 20 seconds. Stir in the heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, and paprika. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Serve:
Pour the cream sauce over the stuffed shrimp. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Nutrients
- Calories: 612 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Protein: 55 g
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Cholesterol: 712 mg
- Sodium: 2213 mg
- Potassium: 384 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 2 g
- Vitamin A: 1846 IU
- Vitamin C: 33 mg
- Calcium: 409 mg
- Iron: 6 mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
Why Crab Stuffed Shrimp is a Culinary Star
Crab Stuffed Shrimp is a standout dish for several reasons, blending elegance with the comfort of a home-cooked meal:
- Decadent Combination: The natural sweetness of shrimp pairs perfectly with the savory, flavorful crab stuffing, creating a harmonious balance.
- Versatility: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or side dish—it works beautifully in any role.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is a guaranteed hit at gatherings, offering gourmet flavors that appeal to a wide range of palates.
- Simple Yet Sophisticated: While it looks and tastes like a fine-dining masterpiece, the recipe is straightforward and achievable for home cooks.
- Customizable Flavors: With the addition of Cajun seasoning, lemon juice, and fresh herbs, the flavor profile can be tailored to suit your preferences.
The Ingredients That Make It Shine
Each component of this dish plays a vital role in creating its luxurious flavor and texture:
- Jumbo Shrimp: These succulent, meaty shrimp are the perfect vessel for the flavorful crab stuffing, offering a tender bite and beautiful presentation.
- Crab Meat: Fresh crab adds a rich, briny flavor that elevates the dish to gourmet status.
- Ritz Crackers: These crushed crackers provide a buttery, slightly crunchy texture that holds the stuffing together.
- Old Bay Seasoning: A classic seafood seasoning, Old Bay adds a savory, slightly spicy kick to the crab mixture.
- Bell Peppers: The diced red and green peppers bring sweetness, color, and a touch of crunch to the stuffing.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors, cutting through the richness of the dish.
- Cajun Cream Sauce: This silky, mildly spicy sauce ties the dish together, adding depth and indulgence.
Serving Suggestions for Crab Stuffed Shrimp
Crab Stuffed Shrimp is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal:
- As a Main Course: Serve with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a light arugula salad to balance the richness of the dish.
- As an Appetizer: Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay and serve alongside crostini or a cheese platter.
- For a Surf and Turf Experience: Combine with a perfectly grilled steak or lamb chops for an elevated dinner menu.
- Garnishes: Fresh parsley, lemon wedges, or a drizzle of extra sauce add a final touch of elegance.
Health Benefits of Crab Stuffed Shrimp
While this dish is indulgent, it also offers nutritional benefits, especially for seafood lovers:
- High in Protein: Both shrimp and crab are excellent sources of lean protein, making this dish satisfying and nutritious.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Shrimp and crab contain key nutrients like selenium, zinc, and vitamin B12, which support immune health and energy production.
- Low in Carbohydrates: This dish is naturally low in carbs, making it a good choice for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
- Healthy Fats: The use of olive oil and butter provides heart-healthy fats when consumed in moderation.
- Customizable for Dietary Needs: By using low-sodium seasonings and adjusting the amount of butter, the recipe can be tailored to specific dietary preferences.
Tips for Making Perfect Crab Stuffed Shrimp
To ensure your Crab Stuffed Shrimp turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and crab meat are key to achieving the best flavor and texture.
- Butterfly with Care: When preparing the shrimp, cut just deep enough to open them without splitting completely, creating the ideal pocket for the stuffing.
- Don’t Overfill: Use just enough stuffing to complement the shrimp without overpowering its delicate flavor.
- Cook to Perfection: Bake until the shrimp are pink and opaque—overcooking can result in a rubbery texture.
- Thicken the Sauce: Allow the Cajun cream sauce to simmer until it reaches a velvety consistency, ensuring it coats the shrimp beautifully.
Creative Variations of Crab Stuffed Shrimp
This recipe is flexible and can be adapted to suit different preferences or occasions:
- Spicy Variation: Add extra Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce for a spicier kick.
- Cheesy Twist: Mix grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar into the crab stuffing for added richness.
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace the Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
- Mediterranean Flavor: Swap the Cajun seasoning for garlic, dill, and lemon zest, and add feta cheese to the stuffing.
- Herb-Infused Sauce: Stir fresh basil, parsley, or chives into the cream sauce for a fragrant touch.
Storing and Reheating Crab Stuffed Shrimp
This dish can be prepared in advance or stored for later enjoyment:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked stuffed shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
- Reheating: Reheat cooked shrimp gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Add a splash of water or cream to refresh the sauce.
Conclusion: A Gourmet Experience at Home
Crab Stuffed Shrimp with Sauce is a dish that combines indulgence, elegance, and incredible flavor. Its tender shrimp, savory crab stuffing, and creamy Cajun sauce make it a standout recipe for any occasion, from festive gatherings to intimate dinners.
With its ease of preparation and restaurant-quality results, this dish is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their home cooking. Whether served as an appetizer, entree, or decadent side dish, Crab Stuffed Shrimp is sure to impress and delight, leaving a lasting impression on your guests and taste buds alike.