Baked Stuffed Shrimp With Ritz Crackers: Recipe & Allergen Info
Baked stuffed shrimp with Ritz crackers stands as a flavorful and elegant seafood dish. Succulent shrimp combines with the buttery crunch of Ritz crackers, creating a mouth-watering experience suitable for any occasion. This dish often includes aromatic seasonings like garlic and parsley, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Key Ingredients:
- Large shrimp (preferably tiger or jumbo)
- Ritz crackers (approximately 30 crackers)
- Butter (unsalted, about 1/2 cup)
- Garlic (minced, 2 cloves)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, 2 tablespoons)
- Lemon juice (freshly squeezed, 1 tablespoon)
- White wine (optional, 1/4 cup)
- Paprika (for garnish)
Preparation Steps:
- Prepare Shrimp: Peel and devein shrimp while keeping the tails intact. Butterfly the shrimp by slicing along the back without cutting all the way through.
- Make Stuffing: Crush Ritz crackers and mix with melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, and white wine (if used). Stir until well combined.
- Stuff Shrimp: Place a heaping spoonful of the stuffing mixture into each butterflied shrimp, pressing gently to adhere.
- Bake Shrimp: Arrange stuffed shrimp in a baking dish, tail-side up, and sprinkle with paprika. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until shrimp is cooked through and stuffing is golden brown.
- Serve: Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges, serving hot.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor.
- Do not overbake, as shrimp can become tough and dry.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding salt and pepper if necessary.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Cholesterol | 130mg |
Baked stuffed shrimp with Ritz crackers brings together texture and flavor efficiently. It’s a versatile recipe easily adapted to personal tastes, making it a reliable choice for various events.
Ingredients Needed
Main Ingredients
You need the following main ingredients for baked stuffed shrimp with Ritz crackers:
- Large Shrimp: Use 16-20 count per pound shrimp. Ensure they’re peeled and deveined but leave the tails on for presentation.
- Ritz Crackers: Crush around 30 crackers. The buttery texture adds a flavorful crunch.
- Butter: Melt 1 cup of unsalted butter. It helps bind the stuffing while imparting richness.
- Garlic: Mince 4 cloves of garlic. It infuses the dish with savory undertones.
- Lemon Juice: Use the juice of 1 fresh lemon. It adds acidity that brightens the flavors.
- Parsley: Finely chop 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley. It provides a burst of color and freshness.
- Onion Powder: Add 1 teaspoon of onion powder. It enhances the depth without overpowering.
- Paprika: Use 1 teaspoon of paprika. It gives a mild heat and vibrant color.
- Salt and Pepper: Season the dish with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. They balance and enhance all other flavors.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing the Shrimp
Begin by selecting large shrimp (size 21-25 count per pound) for optimal stuffing. Peel the shrimp, leaving the tail intact for presentation. Devein the shrimp by making a shallow cut along the back and removing the vein. Flatten each shrimp by slightly pressing the back to create more surface area for the stuffing.
Making the Stuffing
Crush 1 cup of Ritz crackers to achieve a fine crumb texture. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute. Combine the crushed Ritz crackers, sautéed garlic, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper in a bowl. Mix well to blend the ingredients uniformly.
Baking the Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place each prepared shrimp in the dish, arranging them evenly. Spoon a generous amount of stuffing onto each shrimp, pressing lightly to ensure it adheres. Bake for 15–18 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and the stuffing is golden brown. Serve immediately, optionally garnishing with additional parsley and lemon wedges.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
Complement baked stuffed shrimp with Ritz crackers by offering side dishes that enhance the flavors. Serve a crisp Caesar salad for a refreshing contrast. Include roasted vegetables such as asparagus, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes for color and texture. Consider a creamy risotto to balance the dish. Garlic mashed potatoes or buttered corn can also add heartiness.
Presentation Tips
Focus on plating to elevate your dish. Arrange the shrimp in a circular pattern on a large, shallow serving platter. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a vibrant touch. Add lemon wedges around the edge to provide a bright, citrusy option. Use a drizzle of melted butter or a light seafood sauce to enhance visual appeal. For a final touch, place a sprig of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the center.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional profile of baked stuffed shrimp with Ritz crackers allows you to make informed dietary decisions. Key nutrients and calorie counts help determine portion control and nutritional value.
Calorie Content
A typical serving of baked stuffed shrimp with Ritz crackers contains approximately 300-350 calories. The exact calorie count varies based on the size of the shrimp and the amount of stuffing used.
Macronutrients
The primary macronutrients in this dish include proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Key metrics for a single serving include:
- Protein: Approximately 20-25 grams, provided mainly by the shrimp
- Fats: Roughly 15-20 grams, contributed by the butter in the stuffing and the Ritz crackers
- Carbohydrates: Around 20-25 grams, mainly from the Ritz crackers
Micronutrients
This dish also offers essential vitamins and minerals:
- Vitamin B12: Found in shrimp, supporting nerve function and red blood cell production
- Iron: Also in shrimp, important for oxygen transport in the blood
- Selenium: Abundant in shrimp, aids in antioxidant protection and thyroid function
Sodium Content
Due to the seasoned crackers and additional salt in the stuffing, sodium levels can be high. A single serving may contain 700-800 milligrams of sodium. Monitor sodium intake if adhering to a low-sodium diet.
Dietary Fiber
Though not a rich source of fiber, the dish provides approximately 1-2 grams per serving. Ritz crackers contribute most of the fiber content.
Allergen Information
This dish contains allergens such as shellfish (shrimp) and gluten (Ritz crackers), posing risks for individuals with allergies. Consider these factors before serving.
| Nutrient | Approximate Value per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300-350 calories |
| Protein | 20-25 grams |
| Fats | 15-20 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 20-25 grams |
| Sodium | 700-800 milligrams |
| Dietary Fiber | 1-2 grams |
| Vitamin B12 | High |
| Iron | Moderate |
| Selenium | High |
Evaluating the nutritional content helps balance indulgence with dietary needs, making baked stuffed shrimp with Ritz crackers a delightful yet informed choice.
Conclusion
Baked stuffed shrimp with Ritz crackers is a delightful dish that combines taste and nutrition. With its succulent shrimp and buttery cracker topping, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. By understanding its nutritional profile, you can enjoy this indulgence while keeping your dietary needs in check. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or simply treating yourself, this recipe offers a perfect balance of flavor and nutritional benefits. Don’t forget to consider any potential allergens to ensure everyone can savor this delicious dish safely. Enjoy your culinary creation with confidence and delight!
