What is crab stuffed shrimp made of?

Crab stuffed shrimp is made from large butterflied shrimp filled with a seasoned crab cake mixture. The stuffing includes jumbo lump crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, egg, lemon juice, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, panko breadcrumbs, and spices like Old Bay and smoked paprika. The shrimp are arranged with the tail folded over the stuffing and baked until golden and tender. The combination creates a flavorful balance of sweet seafood and bold seasoning that’s satisfying and elegant.

Can you make crab stuffed shrimp ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble crab stuffed shrimp in advance. Prepare the stuffing, butterfly the shrimp, and fill them as directed. Once assembled, place them on a greased tray, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to twenty-four hours. Chilling before baking helps the stuffing firm up, which improves the structure and prevents it from falling apart during baking. This make-ahead method is ideal for entertaining or holiday meals where timing is everything.

How do you keep crab stuffed shrimp from falling apart?

To keep crab stuffed shrimp from falling apart, use proper binders and pack the stuffing firmly. Ingredients like egg and mayonnaise hold the crab mixture together, while panko provides structure. Press the stuffing into a firm ball and mold it tightly into the butterflied shrimp. Folding the shrimp tail over the stuffing and gently cupping your hands around it ensures that everything stays in place. Chilling the assembled shrimp before baking also improves consistency and helps them hold shape better in the oven.

What is the best crab meat for stuffed shrimp?

The best crab meat for stuffed shrimp is jumbo lump crab meat. It has a delicate texture, sweet flavor, and large pieces that hold together well during mixing and baking. Always choose fresh or pasteurized crab from a trusted seafood source. Avoid imitation crab, which lacks flavor and breaks down easily. For a more budget-friendly version, a mix of lump and claw meat can be used, but make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the stuffing. Freshness is key for achieving the best flavor and structure.

Crab Stuffed Shrimp Recipe: 5-Star Easy Dish That Impresses

Name: Crab Stuffed Shrimp Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 raw jumbo shrimp, U10; 1/2 tbsp avocado oil; 1 tsp Old Bay Seasoning; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1.5 tsp Old Bay seasoning; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 2 tsp Dijon mustard; 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 large egg; Juice of 1/2 lemon; 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs; 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat; 1.5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Description

Crab stuffed shrimp is an elegant, flavor-packed seafood dish featuring juicy jumbo shrimp and creamy, herbed crab stuffing. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

10 raw jumbo shrimp, U10
1/2 tbsp avocado oil
1 tsp Old Bay Seasoning
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp black pepper

Stuffing:

1.5 tsp Old Bay seasoning
1 tsp smoked paprika
2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp Dijon mustard
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 large egg
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
1.5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Remove shells from shrimp, leaving tails on. Butterfly each shrimp down the spine about 1/2 inch deep.

2. Toss shrimp with avocado oil, Old Bay, smoked paprika, and pepper.

3. In a bowl, mix stuffing ingredients except crab. Once combined, gently fold in crab meat. Chill.

4. Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly oil a sheet pan.

5. Arrange butterflied shrimp 2 inches apart. Scoop crab mixture into a firm ball and press into each shrimp. Fold tail over and press to secure.

6. Brush melted butter over shrimp.

7. Bake for 18–20 minutes until shrimp are cooked through and tops are golden.

8. Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges or sauces.

Notes

Do not overmix the crab stuffing to keep the crab lumps intact.

Pack stuffing tightly into shrimp and chill before baking for better hold.

Great served with cocktail sauce, remoulade, or tartar.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 stuffed shrimp
Calories: 165
Sugar: 0.5g
Sodium: 380mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 13g
Cholesterol: 80mg