There’s something magical about the sizzle of shrimp hitting a hot skillet, especially when they’re filled with a rich, crab-infused stuffing. I stumbled upon this delightful Baked Crab-Stuffed Shrimp Casserole on a busy weeknight when I was craving a taste of the sea but also wanted a comforting home-cooked meal. The moment I pulled it from the oven, the golden, bubbly top beckoned my family to the table, and I knew I had created something special.
This casserole takes the classic flavors of shrimp and crab and elevates them into an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for everything from holiday gatherings to casual family dinners. With its buttery cracker topping and savory crab meat filling, it brings restaurant-quality flavors to your home kitchen, all in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe promises to impress with its delightful blend of comfort and sophistication. Let’s get cooking!
Why is Baked Crab-Stuffed Shrimp Casserole a Must-Try?
Perfect for Entertaining: This casserole is an impressive dish that will wow your guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of sweet crab and succulent shrimp creates a harmonious flavor that’ll satisfy everyone at the table.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a time-saver for those busy weeknights or festive occasions.
Versatile & Customizable: Personalize it by swapping out veggies or proteins to suit your family’s tastes.
Comfort in Every Bite: The creamy filling and crunchy topping bring warmth and joy, making it a go-to comfort food for all ages.
Get ready to elevate your dinner game!
Baked Crab-Stuffed Shrimp Casserole Ingredients
For the Stuffing
- Butter – Adds richness and moisture. Substitution: Use olive oil for a lighter option.
- Shallots – Contributes a mild onion flavor. Substitution: Use finely diced onion if shallots are not available.
- Celery – Adds crunch and flavor base. Prep Tip: Mince finely for even cooking.
- Red Bell Pepper – Provides sweetness and color. Substitution: Green bell pepper can be used, though it has a more bitter taste.
- Garlic – Offers aromatic depth. Fresh cloves are recommended for better flavor.
- Dry Sherry – Enhances savory notes with a hint of sweetness. Substitution: Use equal parts apple cider vinegar and water for non-alcoholic version.
- Buttery Crackers (e.g., Clubhouse-style) – Forms the base of the stuffing, providing texture. Substitution: Panko or homemade breadcrumbs may work, but adjust seasoning accordingly.
- Old Bay Seasoning – Spice blend that complements seafood. Note: Substitute with seafood seasoning or a mix of paprika and celery salt if unavailable.
- Black Pepper – Adds mild heat and seasoning.
- Mayonnaise – Binds stuffing together and adds creaminess. Substitution: Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
- Parmesan Cheese – Provides savory depth and a slight nutty flavor. Use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste if desired.
- Flat Leaf Parsley – Freshness and color addition. More can be used for garnish.
- Lemon Zest – Brightens flavor profile. Wedges are served alongside for drizzling before eating.
- Crab Meat – Central ingredient offering sweetness and texture. Substitutions: Chopped shrimp or scallops if crab is not available.
- Jumbo Shrimp – Main visual component; sweet and tender. Consider using smaller shrimp if needed, but reduce cooking time.
For Seasoning the Shrimp
- Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper – Enhances flavor. Used for seasoning shrimp before baking.
How to Make Baked Crab-Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
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Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden brown topping. -
Melt the Butter:
In a skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add shallots, celery, red bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the mixture becomes tender and fragrant. -
Add Dry Sherry:
Pour in the dry sherry, cooking for an additional minute. This enhances the savory notes of your stuffing, bringing out the vibrant flavors. -
Combine the Stuffing Ingredients:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in crushed crackers, Parmesan cheese, Old Bay seasoning, black pepper, lemon zest, and parsley. Allow this mixture to cool slightly. -
Prepare the Shrimp:
Butterfly the jumbo shrimp and season them with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large casserole dish. Make sure not to skip the seasoning—it packs in the flavor! -
Fold in Crab Meat:
Once your stuffing mixture has cooled, gently fold in the crab meat and mayonnaise. Be careful to maintain the delicate texture of the crab as you combine the ingredients. -
Stuff the Shrimp:
Using a spoon, fill the butterflied shrimp with the crab stuffing, ensuring that their tails remain exposed for a beautiful presentation. -
Add Toppings:
Dot the stuffed shrimp with any remaining butter and sprinkle paprika on top for added flavor and color. -
Bake the Casserole:
Place your assembled casserole in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. You want the shrimp to be cooked through and the top to be golden brown. For extra crispiness, broil for 2 minutes at the end. -
Serve and Garnish:
Once out of the oven, serve your casserole garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for drizzling—this adds a bright finish to each bite.
Optional: Serve this dish with a refreshing Mediterranean Green Salad for a perfect meal balance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Crab-Stuffed Shrimp Casseroles are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can prepare the stuffing up to 24 hours in advance, sautéing the vegetables and mixing the dry ingredients—just add the crab meat (to maintain its texture) right before stuffing. Store the stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also butterfly and season the shrimp a day ahead, keeping them covered until you’re ready to assemble. When it’s time to serve, simply spoon the stuffing into the shrimp, dot with butter, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy a delectable and restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort, all while saving precious time during the week!
Baked Crab-Stuffed Shrimp Casserole Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to this dish and make it your own!
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Lobster Substitute: Swap crab for cooked lobster meat for an upscale twist that’s sure to impress.
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Veggie Boost: Add finely diced zucchini or corn to the stuffing for extra texture and a burst of flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a hint of heat that elevates the savory flavors.
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Cheesy Delight: For a gooey twist, incorporate cream cheese into the stuffing mixture for an extra creamy texture.
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Seafood Medley: Combine crab meat with chopped shrimp or scallops for a delicious mix of seafood goodness.
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Seasoned Breadcrumbs: Use Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs instead of plain crackers for an extra layer of flavor in the stuffing.
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Citrus Pop: Add orange zest alongside the lemon for a delightful citrus twist that brightens the dish.
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Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for added crunch and richness to the casserole.
Storage Tips for Baked Crab-Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Fridge: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked casserole tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating: To reheat your Baked Crab-Stuffed Shrimp Casserole, place it in a preheated 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Broil for a couple of minutes for added crispiness.
Make-Ahead: The stuffing can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Combine with shrimp just before baking for best texture and flavor.
What to Serve with Baked Crab-Stuffed Shrimp Casserole?
A delightful meal isn’t complete without the perfect accompaniments to elevate your dining experience and impress your guests.
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Mediterranean Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with crisp greens and a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
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Garlic Bread Baguette: The buttery, garlicky flavor of warm bread is perfect for soaking up the decadent flavors of your casserole.
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Grilled Asparagus: Tender-crisp asparagus adds a delicious crunch and a hint of earthiness, creating a beautiful contrast to the creamy stuffing.
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Fresh Gazpacho Salad: This chilled soup brings a refreshing burst of flavor, making it a vibrant and cool complement to the warm casserole.
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Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes add a comforting texture, rounding out your meal with satisfying heartiness.
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Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: A glass of these white wines provides a lovely acidity that pairs wonderfully with seafood and complements the dish’s flavors.
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Lemon Sorbet: Finish your meal with a refreshing sorbet that cleanses the palate, offering a sweet yet light dessert option.
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Herbed Quinoa: A wholesome grain dish with herbs can offer a nutritious base, soaking up any leftover flavors from your casserole.
Tips for the Best Baked Crab-Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
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Sift the Crab: Always sift through the crab meat before mixing to remove any shells. This ensures a smooth, shell-free stuffing experience.
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Cool Completely: Allow the sautéed vegetable mixture to cool before adding crab. This step keeps the delicate crab meat from cooking prematurely and breaking apart.
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Season Generously: Taste your stuffing with seasonings before baking. Ingredients like buttery crackers can absorb flavors differently, so adjust salt and spices as needed.
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Broil for Crispiness: Don’t skip the broiling step! This final touch adds a beautiful golden color and crunchy texture to the top of your Baked Crab-Stuffed Shrimp Casserole.
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Tail Exposure: When stuffing the shrimp, make sure the tails are left exposed for a beautiful presentation that impresses guests and elevates your dish.
Baked Crab-Stuffed Shrimp Casserole Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
For the best results, I recommend using jumbo shrimp as they are sweet, tender, and provide a beautiful presentation. However, if jumbo shrimp isn’t available, you can use smaller shrimp, just be sure to reduce the cooking time accordingly to prevent overcooking.
How can I select the best crab meat?
Absolutely! When choosing crab meat, look for fresh, sweet-smelling crab that is free from any dark spots or strong odors. Lump crab meat is ideal for this casserole as it holds its shape while providing the best flavor. If fresh crab isn’t available, canned or vacuum-sealed varieties work too; just make sure to check the label for quality.
Can I prepare the casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing one day in advance! Sauté the vegetables and mix them with the dry ingredients, but add the crab meat and mayonnaise just before stuffing the shrimp. This will keep the textures light and fluffy. You can then assemble it the day you plan to bake it, making it perfect for entertaining!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Baked Crab-Stuffed Shrimp Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid excess moisture that can ruin the leftovers.
Can I freeze Baked Crab-Stuffed Shrimp Casserole?
Certainly! To freeze, wrap the unbaked casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking, and follow the original cooking instructions for a fresh, delicious meal!
What if I have seafood allergies?
If seafood allergies are a concern, consider substituting the crab meat with a mix of diced cooked chicken or turkey for a similar texture, or opt for vegetables such as zucchini and corn for a vegetarian version. Always check for allergens in the ingredients used, especially in seasonings like Old Bay.
Baked Crab-Stuffed Shrimp Casserole for a Cozy Dinner Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat and sauté shallots, celery, red bell pepper, and garlic for about 4-5 minutes.
- Add dry sherry and cook for an additional minute.
- Remove from heat, stir in crushed crackers, Parmesan cheese, Old Bay seasoning, black pepper, lemon zest, and parsley, and cool slightly.
- Butterfly the jumbo shrimp and season with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Fold in crab meat and mayonnaise into the stuffing mixture.
- Stuff the shrimp with the crab stuffing, leaving tails exposed.
- Dot stuffed shrimp with remaining butter and sprinkle paprika on top.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until shrimp are cooked through and top is golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges before serving.