Mediterranean Crab-Stuffed Shrimp
This Mediterranean-inspired Crab-Stuffed Shrimp dish is a show-stopping appetizer or elegant main course that’s perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or a romantic seafood dinner. Jumbo shrimp are butterflied and generously filled with a savory crab stuffing laced with garlic, lemon, herbs, and creamy cheese. The result is a tender, juicy bite with bold flavor and irresistible golden topping.
Time Required:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: ~35 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
12 large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
Juice of 1/2 lemon
For the Crab Stuffing:
1/2 cup lump crab meat (picked clean of shells)
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
2 tbsp breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp chopped parsley (plus more for garnish)
1/2 tsp lemon zest
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare Shrimp:
Butterfly each shrimp by slicing down the back (not all the way through). Gently open the shrimp like a book so it lays flat. Pat dry and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Make the Stuffing:
In a small bowl, mix the crab meat, cream cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, lemon zest, paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper until combined.
Stuff the Shrimp:
Place about a tablespoon of the crab mixture on each butterflied shrimp, pressing gently to hold.
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the shrimp on a greased baking dish or parchment-lined tray. Drizzle lightly with olive oil. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and the tops are golden.
Garnish & Serve:
Sprinkle with extra parsley and serve with lemon wedges or a drizzle of garlic butter.
Tips & Variations:
Use Jumbo Shrimp:
Bigger shrimp are easier to stuff and create a more impressive presentation.
No Crab? Try These Substitutes:
Use canned tuna, chopped cooked white fish, or even finely diced mushrooms for a pescatarian or vegetarian twist.
Add a Kick:
Mix a dash of cayenne or finely chopped red chili into the stuffing for a bit of heat.
Make it Creamier:
Add 1 tbsp of Greek yogurt or mayo to the stuffing for a softer, more indulgent texture.
Cheese Swap:
Try feta for a tangier Mediterranean flair or ricotta for a milder alternative to cream cheese.
Air Fryer Option:
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes for a crispier version without needing the oven.
Make Ahead:
You can prepare the stuffed shrimp a few hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Q&A:
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, just be sure they are fully thawed and dried before preparing.
Q: Is imitation crab okay to use?
A: Yes, if you’re on a budget or can’t find fresh crab, imitation crab works well and still gives that seafood flavor.
Q: Can I broil them instead of baking?
A: Absolutely! Broil on high for 4–5 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Q: What sides go well with this?
A: Try it with lemon couscous, Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or orzo pasta.
Q: Can I freeze crab-stuffed shrimp?
A: It’s best served fresh, but you can freeze unbaked stuffed shrimp for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Nutrition (Per 3 stuffed shrimp, approx.):
Calories: 220
Protein: 23g
Fat: 12g
Carbs: 5g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 0.5g
Sodium: ~450mg
Note: Nutrition may vary based on crab type and added cheese/breadcrumb brands.
Conclusion:
This Mediterranean Crab-Stuffed Shrimp recipe is elegant yet simple, full of bold coastal flavors and creamy textures. Whether you’re serving it as a show-stopping appetizer or the main event, it’s sure to impress with its rich filling, juicy shrimp, and golden-baked topping. With simple ingredients and fast prep time, this dish fits perfectly into both weeknight dinners and celebratory spreads. Fresh, flavorful, and guaranteed to wow—this recipe is a Mediterranean seafood must-try!