Crab Stuffed Shrimp

Content… Why It Works Recipe Ingredients How to Make It Recipe Twists Tips and Tricks Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions What to Serve More Delicious Seafood Recipes to Try Watch How to Make It

Why Shrimp Stuffed With Crab Works

A lot of folks are intrigued by crab stuffing, and rightly so. Crabmeat mixed with eggs, mayo, cream cheese, sauteed veggies, and breadcrumbs delivers a delightful combination of textures. It’s creamy and savory and has the perfect mix of seasonings with just the right kick of spice.

This versatile crab salad goes amazingly with lots of dishes, including salmon or mushrooms. But let me tell you, it takes good old shrimp to knock it right out of the park! 💥

Ingredients You’ll Want on Hand

1. Crab – High in protein and low in calories and fat, it’s a seafood lover’s dream. Spike it with Creole seasoning for spicy goodness. While I prefer lump crab, imitation crab will work if that’s what you have.
2. Binder – Eggs and mayonnaise give stuffing the right amount of fat.
3. Flavor – Onion, garlic, green onion, celery, red bell pepper, and parsley sauteed in butter are drool-worthy seasonings.
4. Bulk – Buttery cracker crumbs, parmesan cheese, and cream cheese add substance and umami.
5. Jumbo Shrimp – Tender shrimp large enough to stuff are the star of this show.
6. Lemon Wedges – The bright, citrusy flavor begs to be paired with seafood. If a recipe feels like it’s missing something, a squeeze of lemon juice will often make it right.

How to Make Crab-Stuffed Shrimp

Prep Ingredients

• Preheat the oven to 375℉ (190℃).
• Prep – Line a baking dish with foil or parchment paper and spray with a nonstick cooking spray.
• Season Crab – Place crabmeat in a large bowl and season with Creole seasoning. Or use just salt and pepper to season it. 
• Binders – Lightly beat the eggs, add the mayonnaise, and gently mix. Then, cover and refrigerate the mixture while preparing the other ingredients. 
• Filling – Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onions, minced garlic, green onions, celery, red pepper, parsley, and more Creole seasoning. Sauté for 3-5 minutes and then transfer to a bowl. Let it cool. (Photos 1-2)
• Crush Crackers – While the sauteed ingredients cool, crush crackers until they have a fine crumb texture.
• Mix – Once the sauteed veggies have cooled, gently fold the cream cheese, crushed crackers, sauteed veggies, parmesan, and seasoned crabmeat mixture until thoroughly mixed. (Photo 3)
• Taste Test – Test the mixture and adjust salt and pepper as needed. 

Assemble and Bake Stuffed Shrimp

• Prep Shrimp – Place shrimp on a cutting board and cut a slit in the underside about ¾ deep, stopping at the tail so they can lie tail up. (Photo 4)
• Season the shrimp lightly with Creole seasoning and salt if you desire. (Photo 5)
• Stuff – Using a spoon, stuff each shrimp with 1-2 tablespoons of crabmeat. Carefully place the shrimp in your prepared baking dish, stuffed side up, and then spray them with cooking spray. (Photos 6-7)
• Bake the shrimp until golden brown (about 20 minutes). (Photo 8)
• Serve – Take them out of the oven and serve while still hot.

Recipe Twists

1. Stuff mushrooms, zucchini, or shells with a crab filling for a main dish or appetizer. 
2. Add a little more cheese, mozzarella, pecorino Romano, Asiago, etc.
3. Gluten-free buttery crackers will make this recipe ideal for your friends with gluten intolerance.
4. Old Bay seasoning is a classic seafood spice. Feel free to replace the Creole seasoning with it.

Tips and Tricks

1. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. Bake until the stuffing sets, and enjoy.
2. Line the baking pan with parchment paper or foil for easy clean-up.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

You can make the crab stuffing a day before you cook the shrimp. If you store the stuffing any longer, the cream cheese will start to ooze liquid – not a pretty sight. 

Store leftover stuffed shrimp in the fridge as soon as possible after dinner. They’ll keep in an airtight container for up to three days. I don’t recommend freezing them because of the mayo and cream cheese.

Perfect Sides for Shrimp Stuffed With Crab

Make a complete dinner with spicy green beans, rosemary-roasted potatoes, and sauteed Brussels sprouts.

Have fun dipping them in remoulade sauce, tartar sauce, or cocktail sauce. Make all three to give your guests plenty of options. 

More Delicious Seafood Recipes to Try

1. Seafood Paella
2. Shrimp Po’Boy
3. Seafood Gumbo
4. Maryland Crab Cakes
5. Lobster Bisque

By Imma

Watch How to Make It

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This blog post was originally published in December 2021 and has been updated with additional tips, gorgeous photos, and a video