Stuffed Shrimp with Parmesan and Herb Breadcrumb Filling Recipe

If you have a craving for something elegant yet bursting with flavor, the Stuffed Shrimp with Parmesan and Herb Breadcrumb Filling Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful dish combines tender shrimp with a savory, golden breadcrumb mixture enhanced by Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Every bite offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes, from the juicy shrimp under a crispy, aromatic crust. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner or simply want to impress your family and friends with a homemade seafood treat, this recipe promises an unforgettable culinary experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, fresh ingredients shape the heart of this dish, each contributing to the final texture, flavor, and visual appeal. From the sharpness of Parmesan cheese to the vibrant freshness of parsley, every component plays its part in making the flavors sing.

• 16 large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose shrimp that are firm and fresh for the best results and easier stuffing.
• 1 cup bread crumbs: Provides that essential crunchy texture and acts as the base for the filling.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps soften the vegetables while toasting the breadcrumbs.
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Brings a sweet, aromatic layer that complements the seafood beautifully.
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper: Offers a mild crunch and a splash of color.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the filling with robust, savory notes that awaken the palate.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds warmth and a hint of earthiness.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a salty, nutty depth that melts perfectly into the breadcrumb mixture.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Provides freshness and a pop of green that brightens each bite.
• Juice of 1 lemon: Lifts the flavors with its zesty acidity, balancing the richness.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance all the ingredients.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the stuffing crisp up beautifully under the heat of the oven.

How to Make Stuffed Shrimp with Parmesan and Herb Breadcrumb Filling Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Skillet

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to bring your stuffed shrimp to golden perfection. Meanwhile, melt the butter over medium heat in a skillet — this is your flavor foundation.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the finely chopped onions, garlic, and green bell peppers to the melted butter. Cook them gently until the onions turn translucent and the peppers become soft and inviting. This step is where the fragrant aromas start filling your kitchen and the textures begin forming.

Step 3: Toast the Bread Crumbs

Stir in the bread crumbs to the skillet and cook for a couple more minutes. Toasting them lightly here is crucial because it adds that irresistible crunch while soaking up all the tasty butter and vegetables.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the oregano, Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, lemon juice, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture is the magic stuffing that makes the Stuffed Shrimp with Parmesan and Herb Breadcrumb Filling Recipe so special.

Step 5: Butterfly the Shrimp

Carefully cut along the outer curve of each shrimp without cutting all the way through, then press them open so they lay flat. This “butterflying” is key to giving you the perfect pocket for that savory filling.

Step 6: Fill the Shrimp

Spoon the breadcrumb stuffing onto each butterfly shrimp, pressing gently so it sticks and won’t fall off during baking. This is where your shrimp start transforming into an irresistible, cheesy delight.

Step 7: Drizzle with Olive Oil

Lightly pour olive oil over the stuffed shrimp to promote crispiness and golden browning while baking. The olive oil also adds its own subtle, fruity flavor.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place the shrimp in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the shrimp turn a gorgeous shade of pink and the breadcrumb topping achieves a satisfying golden crust.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, serve your stuffed shrimp hot and enjoy every flavorful bite of this culinary masterpiece that never fails to wow.

How to Serve Stuffed Shrimp with Parmesan and Herb Breadcrumb Filling Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few lemon wedges on the side can enhance the dish’s fresh flavors. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or some flaky sea salt on top right before serving also adds a gourmet touch.

Side Dishes

This stuffed shrimp pairs beautifully with a crisp garden salad, buttery garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple pasta tossed in olive oil and fresh herbs. For a lighter option, try steamed vegetables or a citrusy quinoa salad to complement the richness of the shrimp.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant dinner party, arrange the shrimp in a circular pattern on a platter with lemon slices tucked between each one. Alternatively, serve each shrimp on small toasted baguette slices for delightful appetizers. Using individual ramekins for the baked shrimp can also make a charming personal serving presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover stuffed shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keeping the stuffing and shrimp together ensures the flavors continue to meld, but eating them within this timeframe guarantees freshness and safety.

Freezing

While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze uncooked stuffed shrimp by arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freezing until solid, and then transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready, bake straight from the freezer adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

To reheat leftover stuffed shrimp, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes to maintain their crispy topping without overcooking the shrimp. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the breadcrumb crust deliciously crisp.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before preparing. Removing excess moisture helps the stuffing stick better and ensures the shrimp bake evenly.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute with a similar salty, nutty flavor. Alternatively, aged Asiago or Grana Padano can work beautifully.

Is it possible to make the breadcrumb filling gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free bread crumbs instead of regular ones, and you’ll still get that satisfying crunch and texture without sacrificing flavor.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time before baking?

You can assemble the stuffed shrimp a few hours in advance, cover them tightly, and refrigerate until baking. This makes it very convenient for entertaining as you only need to pop them in the oven when guests arrive.

What wine pairs best with Stuffed Shrimp with Parmesan and Herb Breadcrumb Filling Recipe?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay complements the citrusy, cheesy, and fresh herbal notes in this dish perfectly. The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness of the Parmesan and butter wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Stuffed Shrimp with Parmesan and Herb Breadcrumb Filling Recipe that makes it a standout at any meal. With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, it’s one of those dishes you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or new to seafood recipes, I promise this one will bring smiles and full plates to your table. So go ahead, dive in, and savor every bite of this delightful favorite.

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