Name: Baked Jumbo Stuffed Shrimp: Irresistibly Flavorful Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Colossal or Jumbo Shrimp (Choose 13-15 count per pound for optimal stuffing size.); 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (Aids in seasoning adherence; vegetable oil can be used instead for a milder taste.); 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust based on your preference.); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adds natural heat and a depth of flavor.); 1 pound Lump Crabmeat (Opt for jumbo lump for the best texture. Sub with canned tuna if needed.); ½ cup Mayonnaise (Binds the crab filling; substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option.); 1 large Egg (Acts as a binding agent; a vegan alternative like flaxseed meal mixed with water works well too.); ½ cup Breadcrumbs (Provides texture; choose panko, Italian, or buttery cracker crumbs for variety.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Elevates the shrimp’s umami flavor profile.); 2 teaspoons Old Bay Seasoning (Offers classic seafood seasoning; swap for cajun seasoning for a spicy twist.); 3 tablespoons Chipotle Sauce (Infuses smokiness into the filling; adobo sauce or another hot sauce is a good alternative.); 4 tablespoons Butter (Enriches the dish; vegan butter can replace it for a lactose-free option.); 2 cloves Garlic, minced (Adds a garlicky punch to the butter sauce.); Lemon Juice (Brightens flavors; lime juice can be used as a substitute.); 1 teaspoon Cilantro, finely chopped (Adds freshness; feel free to swap it with parsley or omit entirely.)

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“Did you hear that sizzling sound?” It was my friend, excitedly anticipating my latest creation—the Baked Jumbo Stuffed Shrimp. This dish is nothing short of a showstopper, combining tender, buttery shrimp with a luscious crab filling that’s both savory and delightfully smoky. What I love most about this recipe is how quick it is to prepare; in just 30 minutes, you can have a stunning seafood appetizer ready for your next gathering. Not only is it a versatile dish that you can customize with various seasonings, but it’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that elevates any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, these stuffed shrimp will always impress. How will you customize your batch?

Why Will You Adore This Dish?

Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this stunning seafood delight that’s perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Flavors to Savor: The combination of succulent shrimp and savory crab filling topped with chipotle sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Versatile Customization: Adapt the recipe with a variety of seasonings like cajun or zesty citrus to match your taste or occasion.
Impressive Presentation: Serve these baked stuffed shrimp straight from the oven for a beautiful and appetizing display, ideal for any table setting or party platter.
Crowd Favorite: Whether at a festive gathering or a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to please seafood lovers and casual diners alike. Enjoy with a side of Garlic Shrimp Over for a delightful meal experience!

Baked Jumbo Stuffed Shrimp Ingredients

For the Shrimp
• Colossal or Jumbo Shrimp (2 pounds) – Choose 13-15 count per pound for optimal stuffing size.
• Olive Oil (1 Tablespoon) – Aids in seasoning adherence; vegetable oil can be used instead for a milder taste.
• Sea Salt (1 teaspoon) – Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust based on your preference.
• Black Pepper (1 teaspoon) – Adds natural heat and a depth of flavor.

For the Filling
• Lump Crabmeat (1 pound) – The main attraction; opt for jumbo lump for the best texture. Sub with canned tuna if needed.
• Mayonnaise (½ cup) – Binds the crab filling; substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Large Egg (1) – Acts as a binding agent; a vegan alternative like flaxseed meal mixed with water works well too.
• Breadcrumbs (½ cup) – Provides texture; choose panko, Italian, or buttery cracker crumbs for variety.
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon) – Elevates the shrimp’s umami flavor profile.
• Old Bay Seasoning (2 teaspoons) – Offers classic seafood seasoning; swap for cajun seasoning for a spicy twist.
• Chipotle Sauce (3 tablespoons) – Infuses smokiness into the filling; adobo sauce or another hot sauce is a good alternative.

For Garnish and Sauce
• Butter (4 tablespoons, melted) – Enriches the dish; vegan butter can replace it for a lactose-free option.
• Garlic, minced (2 cloves) – Adds a garlicky punch to the butter sauce.
• Lemon Juice (for garnish) – Brightens flavors; lime juice can be used as a substitute.
• Cilantro (1 teaspoon, finely chopped) – Adds freshness; feel free to swap it with parsley or omit entirely.

These Baked Jumbo Stuffed Shrimp make for an irresistible seafood appetizer that’s sure to take center stage at any gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Jumbo Stuffed Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare Shrimp
Start by peeling and deveining the colossal or jumbo shrimp, ensuring to leave the tail intact for easy handling. Butterfly each shrimp by slicing it along the back, being careful not to cut completely through. This creates a pocket for the stuffing, allowing the shrimp to showcase its beautiful shape and inviting texture once baked.

Step 2: Season Shrimp
In a large mixing bowl, combine the butterflied shrimp with olive oil, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Sprinkle over the garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper, tossing gently until all the shrimp are evenly seasoned. Place the seasoned shrimp aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Make Filling
In a separate bowl, mix the large egg, mayonnaise, and chipotle sauce until smooth and creamy. Carefully fold in the lump crabmeat and breadcrumbs, ensuring the ingredients bind together without breaking up the crab meat. The filling should be a delightful mix, fragrant and rich, ready to bring the Baked Jumbo Stuffed Shrimp to life.

Step 4: Stuff Shrimp
Using a spoon or your hands, carefully scoop the crab filling into each butterflied shrimp, packing it slightly and folding the tail back over the stuffing. Ensure each shrimp is generously filled to create a deliciously satisfying bite. Arrange the stuffed shrimp neatly in a large oven-safe skillet or cast iron pan, ready for baking.

Step 5: Arrange & Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the oven is ready, place the skillet with the stuffed shrimp inside. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and the top of the filling develops a lovely golden brown crust. The inviting aroma will certainly whet your appetite as they cook.

Step 6: Prepare Butter Sauce
While the shrimp are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic, allowing it to infuse the butter with flavor for about 2-3 minutes. For an extra kick, stir in more chipotle sauce before removing from heat. This decadent sauce will be drizzled over your baked shrimp, enhancing their taste.

Step 7: Serve
Once the Baked Jumbo Stuffed Shrimp are done, elegantly drizzle them with the warm garlic butter sauce. Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice to add brightness. Serve immediately to enjoy this beautiful and delicious seafood appetizer, ideal for any occasion or as a delightful treat!

How to Store and Freeze Baked Jumbo Stuffed Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain their delicious flavors, it’s best to enjoy them fresh.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked stuffed shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, keeping for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 375°F (190°C) until heated through (about 15-20 minutes). Perfect for quick weeknight meals!

Make Ahead: Stuffed shrimp can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge until baking, perfect for easy entertaining with your Baked Jumbo Stuffed Shrimp.

Expert Tips for Baked Jumbo Stuffed Shrimp

Shrimp Selection: Opt for colossal 13-15 count shrimp to accommodate the stuffing comfortably. Smaller shrimp may not hold the filling well.
Seasoning Variations: Elevate your baked jumbo stuffed shrimp with alternative spices, like cajun or lemon zest, for a unique flavor twist without losing the overall essence.
Don’t Overstuff: While generous filling is tempting, overstuffing can cause the shrimp to burst while cooking. Aim for a balanced amount for perfect bites.
Make-Ahead Delight: Prepare and stuff the shrimp a day in advance, covering them tightly and refrigerating until you’re ready to bake. This saves time during busy gatherings.
Check Doneness: Ensure the shrimp are fully cooked—pink and opaque are the indicators. Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F for safe consumption.
Leftovers Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days, but enjoy them fresh for the best taste.

Baked Jumbo Stuffed Shrimp Variations

Feel free to explore new dimensions of flavor and texture with these delightful variations!

Cajun Kick: Swap Old Bay with cajun seasoning for a spicy, flavorful twist. This adds a fragrant heat that will excite your taste buds.
Creamy Spin: Replace mayonnaise with a luscious cream cheese for a rich and velvety filling. It adds a delightful tang that complements the savory crab beautifully.
Zesty Citrus: Incorporate fresh lemon or lime zest into the filling for a bright, refreshing kick. The citrus notes will elevate the dish, making it even more irresistible!
Lobster Infusion: For a gourmet upgrade, use fresh lobster meat in place of crab. This will create an indulgent experience worthy of a special celebration.
Herb Delight: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like dill or basil to the crab mixture for a herbal infusion. These herbs will brighten the flavor profile and add an aromatic touch.
Panko Crunch: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for an extra crispy topping. This twist will create a delightful crunch as you bite into the shrimp.
Sweet Heat: Drizzle a honey-chipotle glaze on top before baking for a sweet and smoky finish. This adds a unique layer of flavor that balances perfectly with the shrimp.
Sautéed Veggies: Fold in some sautéed bell peppers and onions into the crab filling for added texture and nutrition. This not only enhances the flavor but makes it a heartier dish.

These variations will not only keep your family delighted but also give you the chance to experiment with flavors. Pair your stuffed shrimp with a refreshing side salad or perhaps some Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed pasta for a delightful meal spread that impresses!

What to Serve with Baked Jumbo Stuffed Shrimp?

Elevate your seafood night with perfect pairings that balance flavors and textures beautifully.

Garlic Bread: The buttery, toasted goodness of garlic bread is ideal for sopping up any leftover sauce. Plus, its crispy texture contrasts nicely with the tender shrimp.
Creamy Coleslaw: Refreshingly crisp and slightly tangy coleslaw complements the richness of the stuffed shrimp, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.
Lemon Butter Pasta: Lightly coated pasta with a citrusy twist enhances the seafood experience, creating a harmonious menu that pleases the palate.
Roasted Asparagus: Vibrant and flavorful, roasted asparagus adds a touch of green and its earthy notes pair perfectly with succulent shrimp.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay provides a refreshing contrast that amplifies the dish’s savory flavors and enhances your dining experience.
Tartar Sauce: Smooth and seasoned, tartar sauce offers a creamy dip that harmonizes with the stuffed shrimp while adding extra zest.
Guacamole: Creamy, rich guacamole can double as a flavorful dip for the shrimp or a delicious topping for shrimp tacos, taking your flavors to the next level.
Mango Salsa: Sweet and spicy mango salsa brings a bit of tropical flair, which not only brightens the plate but also lifts the overall flavor profile.

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Jumbo Stuffed Shrimp are a fantastic choice for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare and stuff the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance; simply arrange them in a covered dish and refrigerate until ready to bake. This way, the flavors meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake directly from the refrigerator for 20–25 minutes until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked. Just remember to keep an eye on them to ensure they remain juicy and tender. You’ll enjoy a stunning seafood appetizer with minimal effort when it’s time to gather around the table!

Baked Jumbo Stuffed Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What kind of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Opt for colossal or jumbo shrimp, specifically the 13-15 count per pound size. This ensures that the shrimp are large enough to hold the stuffing without bursting while baking. If you’re in a pinch, you can use medium shrimp, but be mindful that they’ll require a bit more care when stuffing.

How long can I store leftovers, and what’s the best method?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to keep them longer, I recommend freezing them.

Can I freeze Baked Jumbo Stuffed Shrimp?
Absolutely! For optimal freezing, arrange unbaked stuffed shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, labeling them with the date. They can be kept for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake at 375°F until heated through, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes.

What are some common troubleshooting tips?
If your shrimp are bursting while baking, it may be because they are overstuffed. Aim for a moderate amount of filling. If you’re finding that the filling is too runny, consider adding more breadcrumbs to thicken it. And lastly, ensure your shrimp are fully cooked, which means they should turn pink and opaque. Using a meat thermometer, check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F for safe consumption.

Are there any dietary considerations I should take into account?
Yes, if you’re serving people with seafood allergies, it’s best to know who is enjoying your dish. You can also customize this recipe to fit dietary preferences by using vegan mayonnaise and a flaxseed egg for a plant-based option. Additionally, if serving pet-friendly dishes, remember that shrimp should only be given to pets in moderation (if at all), as some may have allergic reactions.

How can I customize the seasonings for different tastes?
There are numerous fun twists! For a cajun kick, increase the Old Bay seasoning and add some cayenne pepper. To brighten the dish, incorporate zesty lemon or lime juice into the filling or garnish. If you’re a fan of smoky flavors, consider adding smoked paprika or a bit of hot sauce to the filling. The more the merrier when it comes to flavor experimentation!

These FAQs cover your key concerns while making the Baked Jumbo Stuffed Shrimp, helping you to create a delightful seafood masterpiece!