Ultimate Baked Stuffed Shrimp Recipe with Ritz Crackers
Guide or Summary：Baked Stuffed Shrimp Recipe with Ritz CrackersIngredientsInstructionsWhy This Recipe WorksPerfect for Any OccasionAre you ready to elevate……
Guide or Summary：
- Baked Stuffed Shrimp Recipe with Ritz Crackers
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Why This Recipe Works
- Perfect for Any Occasion
Are you ready to elevate your seafood game with a dish that's both elegant and comforting? Look no further than this ultimate baked stuffed shrimp recipe with Ritz crackers. This classic dish combines succulent shrimp with a savory, buttery stuffing made from crushed Ritz crackers, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that will impress your family and guests alike.
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Recipe with Ritz Crackers
To begin with, let’s talk about the star of the show: the shrimp. When choosing shrimp for this recipe, it's best to opt for large or jumbo shrimp. The larger the shrimp, the easier it will be to stuff them, and they will also provide a more substantial bite. Make sure to devein and butterfly the shrimp before starting the recipe. Butterflying the shrimp involves cutting them along the back and opening them up like a book, which creates a perfect pocket for the stuffing.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 sleeve of Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. **Prepare the Shrimp**: Butterfly the shrimp by cutting along the back and opening them up. Arrange the shrimp in the prepared baking dish with the cut side up.
3. **Make the Stuffing**: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, melted butter, chopped onion, chopped celery, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. **Stuff the Shrimp**: Take a small amount of the stuffing mixture and press it into the opening of each butterflied shrimp. Be generous with the stuffing to ensure each shrimp is well-filled.
5. **Bake**: Place the stuffed shrimp in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the stuffing is golden brown.
6. **Serve**: Remove the shrimp from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of freshness.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of shrimp and Ritz crackers is a match made in culinary heaven. The buttery, slightly salty flavor of the Ritz crackers complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp, while the crackers' texture adds a pleasant crunch to each bite. The addition of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and fresh parsley enhances the overall flavor profile, making each mouthful a delightful experience.
Moreover, this baked stuffed shrimp recipe with Ritz crackers is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to the stuffing mixture. For a more herbaceous flavor, try incorporating fresh dill or basil.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This dish is perfect for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a special celebration. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, such as a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a creamy risotto. And don't forget a glass of chilled white wine or a sparkling beverage to complete the meal.
In conclusion, this ultimate baked stuffed shrimp recipe with Ritz crackers is a must-try for seafood lovers. It's easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and sure to impress anyone who tries it. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion.