Name: Crab Stuffed Shrimp Recipe Easy & Elegant Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds shrimp or prawns, jumbo or colossal (12/15 per pound), peeled and deveined with tails left on; 1 pound lump blue crab meat, picked over to remove shell and cartilage; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 scallions, white part only, finely chopped; 1 celery rib, finely chopped; ½ green bell pepper, finely chopped; ½ cup mayonnaise; 1 egg, beaten (large or extra-large); 3 tablespoons sour cream; ½ teaspoon dry mustard; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; ½ teaspoon Old Bay Seasonings; ¼ teaspoon lemon pepper; 1 teaspoon Creole Seasoning; 24 round buttery crackers (e.g., Ritz), crushed; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (divided); 14 round buttery crackers, crushed

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 84 reviews

If you are looking for a dish that feels both fancy and approachable, you have to try this Crab Stuffed Shrimp Recipe Easy & Elegant Recipe. It’s one of those unforgettable plates that bring together sweet, tender shrimp enveloping a luscious crab filling, all topped with a crispy buttery cracker crust. With every bite, you get layers of flavor and texture that feel special enough for any celebration but are simple enough for a weekday treat. Trust me, once you master this recipe, it will become your go-to for impressing guests or indulging in a comforting yet sophisticated meal at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up image shows a black pan with a layer of melted butter forming a shiny, slightly bubbly base. On top, finely chopped green celery and white onion pieces spread mostly in a ring shape with some scattered in the center. A wooden spoon with a smooth, brown texture is actively stirring the vegetables on the right side of the pan. The background is replaced with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

It’s amazing how a handful of carefully chosen ingredients can come together to create such a star dish. Each component here plays a crucial role, from the succulent shrimp providing the perfect vessel to the savory, creamy crab stuffing and the crispy cracker topping that adds that irresistible crunch.

2 pounds shrimp or prawns (Jumbo or Colossal): The star of the dish, peeled and deveined with tails on to make for a beautiful presentation and succulent bite.
1 pound lump blue crab meat: Fresh or good-quality lump crab meat is essential for that sweet, delicate crab flavor that elevates this recipe.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Used twice in the recipe to sauté veggies and add richness to the topping.
4 scallions (white part only): Adds a mild onion flavor and freshness to the stuffing.
1 celery rib: Provides a subtle crunch and earthy contrast.
½ green bell pepper: Contributes sweetness and vibrant color.
½ cup mayonnaise: Binds the filling together with creamy richness.
1 egg (beaten): Helps hold the stuffing firm when baked.
3 tablespoons sour cream: Adds tanginess and moisture to keep everything soft but not soggy.
½ teaspoon dry mustard: Gives a gentle kick that wakes up the flavors.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a deep, savory umami note.
½ teaspoon Old Bay Seasonings: Classic seafood seasoning that complements the crab perfectly.
¼ teaspoon lemon pepper: Adds bright citrus and peppery zing.
1 teaspoon Creole Seasoning: Brings a touch of smoky, spicy warmth that rounds out the flavor.
24 round buttery crackers (like Ritz): Crushed to add crunchy texture to the stuffing and topping.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted, divided): For combining with the crackers to create that beautiful golden crust.
14 round buttery crackers (extra): For sprinkling on top to add an irresistible finishing crunch.

How to Make Crab Stuffed Shrimp Recipe Easy & Elegant Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F, setting the stage for a perfectly baked dish. While it heats, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the scallions, celery, and bell pepper. Cook until tender and translucent, about four minutes. This mix brings savory sweetness and fresh crunch to the crab filling.

Step 2: Crush Your Crackers

While the veggies cool, crush your buttery crackers using a food processor or place them in a plastic bag and crush with your hands or a rolling pin. These crumbs will add a buttery, crunchy texture both inside the filling and as a topping, making every bite delightfully crisp.

Step 3: Prep the Crab Meat

Spread out the crab meat on a plate and carefully pick through it to remove any bits of shell or cartilage. This step ensures the stuffing is silky smooth and enjoyable without any unwanted surprises.

Step 4: Make the Crab Stuffing

In a large bowl, combine the cooled veggies, mayonnaise, beaten egg, sour cream, dry mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay, lemon pepper, and Creole seasoning. Mix well to blend all those lively seafood flavors. Add the crushed crackers and crab meat last, gently folding everything together to keep the crab lumps intact and the mixture light but cohesive. Then cover and chill for 30 minutes to let it set up beautifully.

Step 5: Butterfly and Fill the Shrimp

Take the shrimp and butterfly them by cutting nearly all the way down their backs, then gently open them like a book with tails folded into a “c.” Place on a lightly greased baking sheet, cut side down. Using a small scoop, pile the crab mixture on top of each shrimp, packing it slightly to hold its shape. Don’t forget to lift the tail to tuck in the stuffing neatly underneath.

Step 6: Create and Add the Topping

Melt butter and combine one tablespoon with the crushed crackers, reserving the rest of the melted butter. Sprinkle some of the cracker mixture over each stuffed shrimp and drizzle with the remaining butter. This is the magic that crisps the crust while baking for that irresistible golden finish.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake your prepared shrimp at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes, until the shrimp meat turns opaque and their tails turn a festive reddish pink. The cracker topping should be beautifully toasted and crunchy. Remove from the oven, and your elegant dish is ready to serve immediately.

How to Serve Crab Stuffed Shrimp Recipe Easy & Elegant Recipe

The image shows several pieces of raw shrimp placed on a ribbed wooden surface. Each shrimp has two layers: the bottom layer is the translucent, pale white shrimp body, and the top layer is a light brown creamy mixture with green herbs, giving a textured look. The shrimp tails are left on and curve upwards, adding a slightly reddish and brown color contrast at the tips. The creamy topping looks fluffy and unevenly spread over the shrimp. The background surface is wooden with ridges running horizontally. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes elevate presentation and add flavor brightness. Consider a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a green pop, or scatter a few lemon wedges nearby for guests to squeeze. A small drizzle of garlic butter or a vibrant remoulade sauce can also add richness and a touch of gourmet flair.

Side Dishes

This Crab Stuffed Shrimp Recipe Easy & Elegant Recipe goes perfectly with light, complementary sides. A crisp mixed green salad with a citrus vinaigrette refreshes the palate, while a fluffy rice pilaf or garlic mashed potatoes add comforting starch to round out the meal. For something crisp, roasted asparagus or steamed green beans work beautifully to balance textures.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow your guests, try serving these shrimp on a long platter garnished with microgreens and edible flowers for a stunning centerpiece. Alternatively, place each shrimp on a small bed of creamy polenta or individual salad spoons for elegant appetizers. Wrapping a thin slice of lemon zest around the tail before serving adds a lovely citrus aroma that hints at the flavors inside.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Crab Stuffed Shrimp Recipe Easy & Elegant Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to two days, making for a quick, delicious meal the next day.

Freezing

While freezing cooked stuffed shrimp is possible, it can affect the texture of the shrimp and the stuffing slightly. If you plan to freeze, wrap the shrimp tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

To retain the best texture, reheat your leftover crab stuffed shrimp in the oven at 350°F for about 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to keep the shrimp tender and the cracker topping crisp.

FAQs

Can I use frozen crab meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen lump blue crab meat, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture that can make the stuffing soggy.

What size shrimp works best for stuffed shrimp?

Jumbo or colossal shrimp (about 12/15 per pound) are ideal because they are large enough to hold a generous stuffing and make an impressive presentation.

Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?

Absolutely! The crab stuffing can be mixed and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before assembling the shrimp, making this recipe great for prepping in advance.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a gentle warming spice from the Creole seasoning and Old Bay, but nothing too fiery. You can always adjust the seasoning levels to suit your heat preference.

What can I use instead of crackers?

If you prefer gluten-free or different textures, crushed toasted breadcrumbs or panko work wonderfully as a substitute for the buttery crackers.

Final Thoughts

This Crab Stuffed Shrimp Recipe Easy & Elegant Recipe truly hits the sweet spot between effortless cooking and impressive presentation. The delicate balance of flavors and textures makes it a standout dish every time. I encourage you to give it a try, whether for a special occasion or a cozy night in — it’s guaranteed to delight your taste buds and your guests!