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The golden, crispy topping of this Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole pairs beautifully with the tender shrimp and flavorful, seasoned stuffing. The combination of shrimp and gluten-free breadcrumbs creates a dish that is both satisfying and light, ideal for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
This dish is not only delicious but also versatile—feel free to swap in your favorite seasonings or add a bit of spice to make it your own. It’s perfect for seafood lovers who need a quick yet impressive gluten-free meal that everyone will love!
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Full Recipe:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté celery, onion, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff the shrimp with the breadcrumb mixture and place in a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through and the top is golden.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
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Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole (Gluten-Free): A Family Tradition Reimagined
Baked Stuffed Shrimp has long been a staple of celebratory meals, particularly cherished as part of Christmas Eve dinners. Rooted in New England tradition, this seafood dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich, buttery stuffing, often made with crab, crackers, and herbs. For many families, it’s not just a meal but a festive event, evoking memories of joyful gatherings and special occasions.
This recipe for Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole (Gluten-Free) is a modern update on a classic family favorite, thoughtfully modified to accommodate gluten-free diets while preserving the heartwarming flavors that make it so beloved. The dish retains all the charm of the original while offering a fresh, bright twist thanks to the addition of garlic and lemon. It’s perfect for family celebrations, especially those seeking a lighter, yet still indulgent, seafood casserole that’s easy to prepare and serves a crowd.
A Taste of Tradition with a Modern Spin
Growing up, Baked Stuffed Shrimp was something special in my household, enjoyed exclusively on Christmas Eve. My mother, who has been making this dish for decades, would prepare it with such care, and I would eagerly await the moment when we sat down to enjoy it together. It was a tradition that signaled the start of the holiday season and brought the family closer, even my dad, who was more inclined to meat-and-potatoes dinners.
This Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole recipe is a fresh take on that cherished family dish. The casserole version is designed to be more convenient for a small crowd, with the addition of garlic and lemon juice bringing a bright, zesty edge to the stuffing. The dish is not only gluten-free but also family-friendly, ensuring that everyone can indulge in this festive, flavorful meal without missing out due to dietary restrictions.
The Appeal of Baked Stuffed Shrimp
So, what makes Baked Stuffed Shrimp so special? The combination of plump, tender shrimp paired with a savory stuffing is a winning formula. The stuffing, often made with crab meat, buttery breadcrumbs, and aromatic herbs like garlic and parsley, creates a mouthwatering contrast to the shrimp’s natural sweetness. In the case of this casserole version, a few modern touches make it more versatile while still keeping the spirit of the original recipe intact.
One of the reasons this dish remains popular is its ability to elevate any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a Christmas celebration or a simple weeknight dinner, Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole exudes festivity. It’s a dish that feels luxurious yet comforting—elegant enough for special occasions but familiar enough to become part of your regular menu.
Why Gluten-Free?
Adapting traditional recipes to fit dietary needs is a growing trend, and this gluten-free version of Baked Stuffed Shrimp ensures that no one is left out of the fun. Gluten sensitivity and celiac disease have become increasingly common, and finding alternatives to classic recipes without compromising flavor or texture can be challenging. However, the use of gluten-free crackers, such as those from Simple Mills, ensures that the stuffing retains its crispy, buttery texture without any gluten-containing ingredients.
Moreover, gluten-free recipes often rely on natural, wholesome ingredients, making them a healthier option for many families. This Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is no exception. It’s packed with high-quality protein from shrimp and crab, combined with fresh herbs, lemon, and a touch of butter for richness.
The Perfect Holiday or Weeknight Meal
While this casserole has a festive air to it, thanks to its ties to Christmas Eve traditions, it is far from limited to holiday menus. This dish is perfect for any occasion where seafood is on the menu, whether it’s a casual gathering with friends or a more formal dinner. You can easily make it ahead of time, which is a big plus for busy weeknights or large family gatherings where preparation time is key.
The easy-to-assemble nature of the casserole makes it a fantastic go-to meal when entertaining. The stuffing, which can be made a day ahead, allows you to get a jumpstart on meal prep, while the shrimp only require seasoning and a brief bake in the oven before they’re ready to serve.
A Versatile Recipe with Customization Options
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. While it calls for crab and gluten-free crackers, the stuffing can be adjusted to your liking. For instance, if you have dietary preferences or availability issues, you can swap the crab for other shellfish like lobster or scallops. Additionally, if you prefer a bit of heat, adding some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the stuffing can provide an extra layer of flavor.
For those who are not concerned with gluten sensitivity, traditional Ritz crackers are a fantastic option for the stuffing, offering a slightly different texture and flavor. If you prefer to avoid any type of breadcrumbs altogether, you can try using almond flour or other grain-free options. The possibilities are endless, ensuring that this recipe can be tailored to suit any taste.
Why This Dish Is Loved by All
The combination of buttery, savory stuffing and succulent shrimp creates a delicious contrast in both texture and flavor. The light crunch from the gluten-free crackers adds an element of surprise, while the crab gives the dish a rich, luxurious taste that feels like a treat. Meanwhile, the lemon juice and zest bring a refreshing brightness, balancing out the richness of the butter and seafood.
But perhaps the best part of this casserole is that it’s universally loved. Even people who might not typically enjoy seafood can appreciate the flavors and textures in this dish. The shrimp, with its mild sweetness, pairs so well with the buttery stuffing that it becomes a crowd-pleaser. Moreover, the entire dish is baked together, allowing all the flavors to meld and intensify, making each bite even more satisfying than the last.
Conclusion: A Dish Worth Sharing
The Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole (Gluten-Free) recipe is a modern, healthier take on a classic family favorite, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a special holiday meal or just a cozy dinner at home, it’s a dish that promises to delight with every bite. The combination of fresh seafood, buttery stuffing, and zesty lemon flavors creates a memorable dish that captures the essence of celebration and comfort in one bite.
It’s a recipe that brings people together and has the power to create lasting memories, just like it did for me growing up. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its flavor but also in its versatility—easy to prepare ahead of time, customizable to fit your preferences, and always a hit at the dinner table.
As you gather around the table with family and friends, serving this dish will no doubt add to the joy and warmth of the occasion. And who knows, it might just become your new holiday tradition, just as it did in my family.
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Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
The golden, crispy topping of this Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole pairs beautifully with the tender shrimp and flavorful, seasoned stuffing. The combination of shrimp and gluten-free breadcrumbs creates a dish that is both satisfying and light, ideal for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
This dish is not only delicious but also versatile—feel free to swap in your favorite seasonings or add a bit of spice to make it your own. It’s perfect for seafood lovers who need a quick yet impressive gluten-free meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté celery, onion, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff the shrimp with the breadcrumb mixture and place in a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through and the top is golden.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes