Name: Irresistible Stuffed Shrimp with Creamy Crab Filling
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 16-20 large Shrimp (Choose plump, meaty shrimp.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Can be swapped with any neutral oil.); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Substitute with regular paprika for a milder taste.); 1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning (Mix celery salt, black pepper, and cayenne if unavailable.); 1 cup Lump or Claw Crab Meat (Substitute with shrimp if allergic.); 1 cup Cooked Spinach (Can be swapped with other cooked greens like kale.); 1/2 cup Chopped Artichokes (Omit or replace with chopped mushrooms if preferred.); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Opt for Greek yogurt or sour cream for a healthier twist.); 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (Yellow mustard works just as well.); 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce (Optional if you'd prefer to omit it.); 1/2 cup Italian Breadcrumbs (Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.); 1/2 cup Cheese (Mozzarella & Pepperjack) (Substitute with your favorite cheese like cheddar.); 2 cloves Minced Garlic (Use fresh garlic for enhanced flavor.); 1 teaspoon Dried Herbs & Italian Seasoning (Feel free to substitute with fresh herbs.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest (Lime juice can be an excellent substitute.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Replace with any cooking fat if desired.); 2 cloves Minced Garlic (for sauce) (Flavor enhancer for the sauce.); 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Dill (Dried herbs can be used if fresh aren’t available.)

As I prepared for a festive gathering, I couldn’t shake the memory of those delightful holiday parties filled with laughter and delicious food. One standout dish that always steals the spotlight is these Crab Stuffed Shrimp. This easy-to-make recipe is not only a stunning appetizer but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor the filling to your seafood preferences. Imagine impressing your guests with these beautiful, buttery shrimp, elegantly filled with a creamy crab mixture that’s rich in flavor. Plus, these stuffed shrimp can be prepped in advance, leaving you more time to enjoy the company. Are you ready to dive into this delectable dish that promises to elevate your holiday spread?

Why are Crab Stuffed Shrimp a Must-Try?

Flavor Explosion: Each bite bursts with rich, savory goodness, thanks to the captivating blend of fresh crab and herbs.
Easy Preparation: You can prep these scrumptious stuffed shrimp ahead of time—less stress and more time to mingle!
Versatile Options: Mix and match fillings with your favorite seafood like scallops or veggies for a twist on this classic.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect as a holiday appetizer, these beauties will impress your guests and have them coming back for seconds! Don’t forget to check out more delicious ideas like Garlic Shrimp Mashed or Spinach Feta Stuffed for your gathering!

Stuffed Shrimp Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create irresistible stuffed shrimp!

For the Shrimp

16-20 Large Shrimp – Choose plump, meaty shrimp for a perfect stuffing base.
Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and keeps the shrimp moist; can be swapped with any neutral oil.
Smoked Paprika – Adds a rich, smoky flavor; substitute with regular paprika for a milder taste.
Old Bay Seasoning – A classic seafood blend that elevates the dish; mix celery salt, black pepper, and cayenne if unavailable.

For the Filling

Lump or Claw Crab Meat – The star ingredient, providing a creamy texture and rich flavor; substitute with shrimp if allergic.
Cooked Spinach – Boosts nutrition and color; can be swapped with other cooked greens like kale.
Chopped Artichokes – Adds a unique flavor and texture; omit or replace with chopped mushrooms if preferred.
Mayonnaise – Creamy binding for the filling; opt for Greek yogurt or sour cream for a healthier twist.
Dijon Mustard – Provides depth and zing; yellow mustard works just as well.
Worcestershire Sauce – Infuses umami flavor; optional if you’d prefer to omit it for dietary reasons.
Italian Breadcrumbs – Gives structure to the filling; use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Cheese (Mozzarella & Pepperjack) – For a melty, rich filling, substitute with your favorite cheese like cheddar.

For Flavor Boost

Minced Garlic – Adds savoriness to the filling; use fresh garlic for an enhanced flavor.
Dried Herbs & Italian Seasoning – Imparts fragrant herbal notes; feel free to substitute with fresh herbs if available.
Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest – Brighten the filling and accentuate seafood flavors; lime juice can be an excellent substitute.

For the Sauce

Unsalted Butter – Richness for the garlic butter dill sauce; replace with any cooking fat if desired.
Minced Garlic (for sauce) & Chopped Fresh Dill – Flavor enhancers for the sauce; dried herbs can be used if fresh aren’t available.

With these stuffed shrimp ingredients, you’ll create a dish that’s not only delightful but also the perfect addition to your holiday gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Decadent Crab Stuffed Shrimp

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure the perfect cooking environment for your stuffed shrimp, allowing them to cook evenly and develop a lovely golden color. While the oven is heating up, take this time to gather your ingredients and prepare your workspace for a seamless cooking experience.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, gently coat the deveined and butterflied large shrimp with a drizzle of olive oil. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Toss everything together until each shrimp is well-coated, ensuring a flavorful base for your decadent crab stuffed shrimp. The shrimp should appear moist and ready to be filled.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the lump crab meat, strained cooked spinach, chopped artichokes, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, breadcrumbs, and shredded cheese. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they form a creamy and cohesive filling. The vibrant colors and rich textures of the crab filling will be inviting, hinting at the delicious flavors to come.

Step 4: Stuff the Shrimp
Carefully take a spoonful of the crab mixture and fill each butterflied shrimp, ensuring they’re packed without overflowing. Place the stuffed shrimp on a lined baking sheet, arranging them neatly to promote even cooking. Make sure to leave a little space between each shrimp for proper airflow in the oven, which helps them cook perfectly.

Step 5: Bake the Stuffed Shrimp
Transfer the baking sheet with the stuffed shrimp into your preheated oven. Allow them to bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the shrimp turn a lovely light pink and the filling is heated through. Keep an eye on the shrimp as they cook, ensuring they don’t overcook, which can lead to a rubbery texture.

Step 6: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
While the crab stuffed shrimp are baking, melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add in minced garlic and chopped fresh dill, allowing the butter to become infused with fragrant flavors for about 2-3 minutes. Once ready, this sauce will beautifully complement your stuffed shrimp when it’s time to serve.

Step 7: Serve and Drizzle
Once the stuffed shrimp are done baking, remove them from the oven and transfer to a serving platter. Drizzle the garlic butter dill sauce generously over the top for added richness. The beautifully golden stuffed shrimp will be ready to impress your guests with both flavor and presentation while you gather around the table to enjoy this delightful holiday appetizer.

What to Serve with Crab Stuffed Shrimp

Elevate your dining experience by pairing these delicious seafood delights with complementary sides and drinks that enhance their rich flavors.

Garlic Bread: The warm, crusty texture of garlic bread complements the creamy filling beautifully, creating a delightful contrast in each bite. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra garlic butter sauce!
Mixed Green Salad: A crisp salad with fresh greens, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the rich stuffed shrimp. The crunch and acidity will lighten up the meal.
Creamy Risotto: This luxurious, creamy dish enhances the seafood flavors while adding a buttery richness to the meal. The creamy texture mirrors the filling’s decadence, offering a beautiful dining experience.
Roasted Asparagus: Simply roasted asparagus with a sprinkle of sea salt brings a touch of earthiness and bright green color to your plate. It’s a nutritious side that pairs perfectly with seafood.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc elevates your dinner by bringing a refreshing contrast to the savory shrimp. The fruity notes will beautifully complement the filling’s richness.
Lemon Sorbet: Serve this light, refreshing dessert to cleanse the palate after the rich stuffed shrimp. The zesty lemon flavor will leave your guests feeling refreshed and satisfied.
Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw not only adds a textural contrast but also lightens the overall dish. Its vinegar-based dressing enhances the flavors of the shrimp without overpowering them.
Fruit Salsa: A fresh, vibrant fruit salsa, like mango or pineapple, offers a sweet-tart element that beautifully contrasts with the savory filling. It’s a fun twist that will surprise your guests!

Make Ahead Options

These Crab Stuffed Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can easily prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing together the crab meat, spinach, artichokes, mayonnaise, and seasonings, then refrigerate in an airtight container. Additionally, you can season and butterfly the shrimp a day ahead; just keep them covered in the fridge to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply stuff the shrimp with the prepared filling and bake them as instructed. This way, you’ll have a delightful and impressive appetizer with minimal effort—just as delicious as if they were made fresh on the day!

How to Store and Freeze Crab Stuffed Shrimp

Fridge: Store any leftover crab stuffed shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the shrimp moist and the filling fresh.

Freezer: You can freeze uncooked stuffed shrimp for up to 3 months. Place them on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating: To reheat, bake the thawed crab stuffed shrimp at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Ensure they are warmed evenly without overcooking them.

Make-Ahead: Prepare the stuffing in advance and fill the shrimp only right before baking for optimal freshness, making this a fantastic choice for easy holiday appetizers.

Stuffed Shrimp Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to personalize your stuffed shrimp experience with these customizable variations that excite the palate and allow for creativity in the kitchen!

Seafood Swap: Use scallops or lobster instead of crab for a luxurious twist on the filling. These options will give your stuffed shrimp a rich and unique flavor profile.
Veggie Upgrade: Replace spinach and artichokes with roasted red peppers or sautéed zucchini for a colorful and delicious filling. Adding roasted vegetables brings a wonderful texture and a hint of sweetness.
Cheese Change: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or gouda to bring a new flavor dimension to your filling. Each cheese used will melt beautifully, creating a creamy texture.
Gluten-Free Fix: Substitute Italian breadcrumbs with ground almonds or crushed gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free alternative that still adds a nice crunch!
Heat It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick of heat that’ll elevate the flavor and intrigue your guests.
Herb Boost: Mix in fresh dill or cilantro for added freshness. These herbs provide brightness and enhance the overall taste of the stuffed shrimp.
Healthier Option: Swap out the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed filling that still retains creaminess and flavor.

Don’t forget, these customized stuffed shrimp make a delightful pairing with ideas like Cheesecake Stuffed Red or Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed for something sweet to balance your festive spread.

Expert Tips for Crab Stuffed Shrimp

Choose the Right Shrimp: Opt for larger shrimp (16-20 size) for a generous stuffing space and juicy texture, avoiding smaller shrimp that may overcook easily.
Avoid Overcooking: Bake the shrimp until they are just pink and the filling is heated through, ensuring they remain tender and flavorful instead of rubbery.
Prep Ahead: Consider preparing the filling a day in advance and refrigerating it. This allows you to stuff the shrimp just before baking, saving time for your gathering.
Customize Your Filling: Feel free to explore different seafood or veggies for the stuffing. Whether you’re using crab or shrimp, these variations keep the stuffed shrimp exciting and versatile!
Garnish Wisely: Drizzle your garlic butter dill sauce right before serving—it adds both flavor and elegance, making your holiday appetizer all the more appealing.

Crab Stuffed Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right shrimp for stuffing?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, aim for 16-20 large shrimp, as their size allows for ample stuffing and ensures a juicy texture. Look for shrimp that are firm, moist, and have a slight sea breeze scent. Avoid any with a fishy smell or dark spots, as these may be past their prime.

What is the best way to store leftover crab stuffed shrimp?
Store any leftover crab stuffed shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the shrimp moist and the filling fresh. To ensure optimal flavor and texture upon serving, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

Can I freeze uncooked crab stuffed shrimp?
Certainly! You can freeze uncooked crab stuffed shrimp for up to 3 months. First, place the stuffed shrimp on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

What if my filling is too watery?
If your filling turns out too watery, try incorporating a bit more breadcrumbs or another binding ingredient like ground crackers to absorb excess moisture. Additionally, ensure that spinach is well-drained, and if necessary, gently squeeze out any liquid before mixing it in. This should help achieve a perfect filling consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations for crab stuffed shrimp?
Yes! If you or a guest has a crab allergy, I recommend replacing crab meat with cooked shrimp or even finely chopped lobster. For lighter alternatives, Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise in the filling for those watching their calorie intake. Always double-check seasonings and sauces for any hidden allergens!