Imagine biting into a plump, golden-baked shrimp with a rich, creamy crab-stuffed center that melts in your mouth. That’s the magic of crab stuffed shrimp —a dish that sounds like it belongs on a five-star menu but is surprisingly simple to make at home.

I first tried this dish at a little seaside café in Charleston and fell head over heels. It was one of those “I could eat this every day” moments. Since then, I’ve tested dozens of methods to recreate that same restaurant-quality bite—but nothing compared to this best baking method revealed in just 6 easy steps .

Why bake instead of fry? For starters, you’ll save time, reduce mess, and still get that irresistible crispy top with a tender, juicy interior. Plus, this recipe uses affordable ingredients, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at your next dinner party.

If you love seafood, you might also enjoy my creamy baked scallops with lemon butter —another easy seafood favorite!

Ready to master this showstopping dish? Let’s dive in.

What Is Crab Stuffed Shrimp Anyway?

Let’s start with the basics: crab stuffed shrimp . It’s exactly what it sounds like—large shrimp that are butterflied, filled with a luscious crab mixture, and baked until golden and bubbly.

Now, how did it get such a fancy-sounding name? Some say it was born from chefs trying to elevate the humble shrimp. Others whisper it was invented by someone who had leftover crab and said, “Why not?” Either way, we’re grateful it exists.

Ever heard the saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”? Well, serve this at dinner and you might just win everyone over.

So if you're curious about what makes this dish so special (and delicious), keep reading—you're about to discover why this isn’t just another seafood recipe—it’s a flavor-packed masterpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Crab Stuffed Shrimp Recipe

There’s a reason this crab stuffed shrimp has become a staple in our household: it’s pure comfort food with gourmet flair.

First off, the creamy crab stuffing —it’s rich, slightly sweet, and full of fresh seafood flavor. Then there's the bake-to-perfection finish , which gives you that golden crust without the greasiness of frying. And don’t even get me started on the herb-butter drizzle —it ties everything together like a bow on a gift box.

Plus, it’s incredibly cost-effective . You can make this dish for less than $15 using store-bought jumbo shrimp and canned lump crab meat. Compared to dining out, where this delicacy could easily cost you $30+ per serving, this homemade version is a steal.

And if you're looking for something similar, try my shrimp scampi with garlic butter —it’s another quick, flavorful seafood hit.

So whether you're cooking for two or feeding the whole family, this dish checks all the boxes. Ready to learn how to make it?

How to Make Crab Stuffed Shrimp: Quick Overview

This crab stuffed shrimp recipe is as easy as it is elegant. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a stunning dish that looks—and tastes—like it came straight from a chef’s kitchen.

It starts with fresh or frozen jumbo shrimp, carefully butterflied and seasoned. A luxurious blend of crab meat, breadcrumbs, herbs, and a touch of mayonnaise creates the dreamy stuffing. After a quick bake at 375°F (190°C), each shrimp emerges golden and bubbling.

Perfect for weeknights, dinner parties, or meal prep , this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort. And best of all, it’s completely customizable—add lemon zest, Parmesan cheese, or even a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning for extra zing.

Let’s walk through the full process, step by step.

Key Ingredients for Crab Stuffed Shrimp

Here’s what you'll need to create this seafood sensation:

🧾 Ingredients:

• 12–16 large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (with tails on)
• 8 oz lump crab meat (fresh or canned)
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tsp Old Bay seasoning
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: melted butter or lemon wedges for serving

(Tip: If using frozen shrimp, thaw them overnight in the fridge or under cold water for 20 minutes.)

Set up your mise en place, and you're ready to roll.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Using a sharp knife, butterfly each shrimp by slicing halfway through the back. Gently press down to flatten slightly.

Place the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Mix the Crab Stuffing

In a medium bowl, combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if using), Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and garlic powder.

Gently fold in the breadcrumbs and chopped parsley. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and airy.

Step 3: Stuff the Shrimp

Using a small spoon or piping bag, generously fill each shrimp with the crab mixture, mounding it slightly on top.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven.

Bake for 15–18 minutes , or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the topping is golden brown and slightly crisp on top.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the shrimp rest for 2–3 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.

Drizzle with melted butter or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra richness.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Serve warm alongside rice, salad, or crusty bread. Or enjoy as an impressive appetizer at your next gathering.

What to Serve With Crab Stuffed Shrimp

Crab stuffed shrimp is rich and indulgent, so balance it with lighter, complementary sides for a well-rounded meal.

🥗 Side Pairings:

• Garlic Herb Quinoa – Light and fluffy, with a subtle kick.
• Lemon Arugula Salad – Bright, peppery greens tossed in a zesty vinaigrette.
• Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan – Adds a healthy crunch and earthy flavor.

🍷 Drink Pairings:

• Sauvignon Blanc – Crisp and citrus-forward, it cuts through the richness beautifully.
• Sparkling Water with Lime – A refreshing, palate-cleansing option.

🍰 Dessert Suggestion:

• Lemon Sorbet – Cleanses the palate and finishes the meal on a bright note.

Together, these pairings create a cohesive, restaurant-style experience right at home.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Crab Stuffed Shrimp

Want your crab stuffed shrimp to look and taste like they came from a fine-dining kitchen? Here are some pro tips to ensure perfection every time:

✅ Use Jumbo Shrimp: Anything smaller than 16/20 count will be too delicate to stuff properly.

✅ Don’t Overfill: Too much stuffing can cause the shrimp to collapse during baking. Aim for a generous but even mound.

✅ Chill the Mixture First: Refrigerating the crab mixture for 10–15 minutes before stuffing helps it hold its shape better while baking.

✅ Add a Breadcrumb Crunch: For extra texture, mix in Panko breadcrumbs or top with a sprinkle before baking.

✅ Avoid Overbaking: Shrimp cook fast—keep an eye on them after 15 minutes to prevent rubbery results.

✅ Make Ahead Hack: Prepare the crab mixture ahead of time and refrigerate. Just stuff and bake when ready to serve.

These tricks work whether you're a beginner or a seasoned home cook—so go ahead, impress yourself and your guests.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? Lucky you—crab stuffed shrimp stores beautifully and reheats like a pro.

🔒 How to Store:

• Fridge: Cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Keeps for up to 3 days .
• Freezer: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months .

🔁 How to Reheat:

• Oven (Best Method): Preheat to 300°F (150°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for 8–10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Skillet: Warm a nonstick pan over medium heat. Add a splash of butter or oil and gently reheat for 2–3 minutes per side.

💡 Pro Tip: To restore that fresh-out-of-the-oven crispness, pop the shrimp under the broiler for 1–2 minutes after reheating—watch closely to avoid burning!

And yes, this recipe is make-ahead friendly ! You can prep the crab mixture and stuff the shrimp a few hours ahead. Just refrigerate until ready to bake.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss This Seafood Gem

Whether you're hosting a dinner party, treating yourself to a weekend indulgence, or simply craving something new for dinner, this crab stuffed shrimp recipe is a must-try.

With just six easy steps, a handful of ingredients, and a short amount of time, you’ll have a dish that looks like it came from a chef’s kitchen but tastes like home.

So go ahead—whip up this crowd-pleasing seafood delight tonight. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation.

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to check out my garlic butter shrimp pasta or creamy baked scallops for more seafood inspiration.

Happy cooking! 🌊🦐✨

💬 Did you make this crab stuffed shrimp recipe?

Drop a comment below and let me know how it turned out—or tag me on Instagram @YourCulinaryCanvas. I love seeing your creations!