Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your dinner table into a gourmet Italian restaurant experience! This Stuffed Jumbo Shrimp Scampi is not just a recipe; it's a flavor explosion that combines succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and a crispy, herb-infused stuffing that will have your guests begging for seconds. Whether you're looking to impress a special someone or elevate your home cooking game, this dish promises to be a showstopper that's surprisingly simple to prepare.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp by carefully peeling and deveining 12 jumbo shrimp, leaving the tail intact for presentation. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning and browning.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a uniform stuffing mixture.
- Butterfly each shrimp by making a deep cut along the underside, being careful not to cut completely through. Gently spread the shrimp open to create a flat surface for stuffing.
- Generously fill each shrimp with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the stuffing gently to ensure it adheres to the shrimp.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add red pepper flakes and allow them to infuse the butter with flavor for about 30 seconds.
- Carefully place the stuffed shrimp in the skillet, stuffing-side up. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes until the bottom begins to turn golden brown.
- Flip the shrimp and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp are fully cooked and the stuffing is crispy and golden.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and arrange on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp just before serving to enhance the bright, citrusy flavors of the dish.
Tips
- Shrimp Selection: Always choose fresh, high-quality jumbo shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a clean, ocean-like smell.
- Drying is Crucial: Pat the shrimp completely dry before seasoning and stuffing. Excess moisture can prevent proper browning and crisp texture.
- Butter Infusion: Take your time when infusing the butter with red pepper flakes. This step adds depth and a subtle heat to the entire dish.
- Stuffing Technique: When filling the shrimp, don't overstuff. A light, even layer ensures even cooking and prevents the stuffing from falling out.
- Heat Management: Use medium-high heat to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust without burning the garlic or breadcrumbs.
- Serving Tip: Serve immediately after cooking to maintain the crispy texture of the stuffing and the tender, juicy shrimp.
- Lemon is Your Friend: The fresh lemon juice at the end is not just a garnish – it brightens the entire dish and cuts through the richness of the butter.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 47kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 2g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 45mg
