Are you looking for some delicious and mouth-watering recipes to spice up your mealtime? Look no further! Shrimp and crab are a match made in heaven, and when combined with bold flavors and spices, they create a culinary experience like no other. In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of spicy shrimp and crab dishes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
From classic boils to creamy bisques, and from savory pastas to spicy sushi rolls, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for some new inspiration in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to impress. So let’s dive into the world of spicy shrimp and crab and get cooking!
Cajun Shrimp and Crab Boil
Get ready for a flavorful and spicy boil that’s perfect for seafood lovers! This Cajun-inspired recipe combines succulent shrimp, crab legs, and smoked sausage with aromatic spices and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 crab legs (about 1 pound)
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
– 2 cups water
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with the water and bring to a rolling boil.
2. Add the Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the shrimp, crab legs, and smoked sausage.
4. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the seafood is cooked through.
5. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Crab Pasta
Add a luxurious twist to your pasta dish with this creamy garlic butter shrimp and crab recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) linguine pasta
– 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup (120g) jumbo lump crab meat, flaked
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tsp (5g) dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add crab meat and shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Stir in parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Combine pasta with garlic butter mixture and toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with these succulent stuffed mushrooms packed with spicy crab, shrimp, and a hint of Asian flair.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup cooked and peeled shrimp
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, shrimp, soy sauce, sriracha sauce, and softened butter until well combined.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the crab-shrimp mixture, mounding it slightly in the center.
4. Sprinkle garlic powder over the filling.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Shrimp and Crab Bisque
This luxurious soup combines succulent shrimp and crab meat with a rich and creamy base, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup fish stock (or chicken stock)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add shrimp and crab meat; cook for 3-4 minutes or until pink.
3. Sprinkle flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream and fish stock, whisking continuously.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes or until thickened.
6. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Louie Salad
A classic West Coast-inspired salad that combines succulent shrimp, luscious crab, and crunchy greens, all tied together with a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together shrimp, crab meat, and a pinch of salt.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese.
3. Add the shrimp-crab mixture on top of the salad.
4. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is a refreshing no-cook dish perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Cheesy Shrimp and Crab Dip
Get ready to impress your friends with this creamy, indulgent dip that combines the sweetness of shrimp and crab meat with the richness of cheese. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix shrimp and crab meat.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the shrimp-crab mixture to the cream cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Pour into a 9×13 inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
6. Top with grated cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Stuffed Avocados
A delicious twist on traditional stuffed avocados, this recipe combines succulent shrimp and crab meat with creamy avocado. Perfect as an appetizer or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup cooked and peeled shrimp
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, shrimp, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Divide the mixture evenly among the avocado halves, spooning it into the cavity.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Shrimp and Crab Gumbo
A classic Louisiana dish that combines succulent shrimp and crab with a rich, flavorful roux-based broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons filé powder (optional)
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add flour and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add broth and water, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Stir in shrimp and crab meat; cook until shrimp are pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Shrimp and Crab Rangoon
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make Baked Shrimp and Crab Rangoon recipe. A delicious combination of succulent shrimp, savory crab, and crispy wontons will satisfy any craving.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 package of wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together shrimp, crab meat, cream cheese, soy sauce, and olive oil until well combined.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the shrimp-crab mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press edges to seal.
5. Place the rangoons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch between each.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Fried Rice
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this mouthwatering combination of succulent shrimp and crab meat, cooked to perfection in a flavorful fried rice dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Add the crab meat to the pan and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
6. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
7. Stir-fry the rice mixture with soy sauce, salt, and pepper for about 5 minutes, until the rice is well coated and slightly caramelized.
8. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and stir-fry for an additional minute.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with these succulent shrimp and crab cakes, perfectly paired with a tangy remoulade sauce. A flavorful and impressive appetizer or main course, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together shrimp, crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Shape mixture into 8-10 patties.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry cakes for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve with Remoulade Sauce.
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tsp prepared horseradish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines succulent shrimp and crab with sautéed onions and bell peppers for a mouthwatering main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onions and garlic until softened. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in crab meat, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the shrimp-crab mixture, filling to the top.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and sprinkle with cheddar cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
A decadent and flavorful twist on the classic fettuccine alfredo, this recipe combines succulent shrimp and crab with a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and crab meat; cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and lightly browned.
4. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the shrimp and crab mixture, season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Shrimp and Crab Sushi Rolls
Add a kick to your sushi game with these spicy shrimp and crab rolls! A perfect combination of tender seafood and crispy rice, these rolls are sure to please even the most adventurous palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup imitation crab meat, flaked
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat the imitation crab meat with soy sauce and sriracha sauce until heated through.
3. Cut the cooked shrimp into small pieces and mix with the crab mixture.
4. Lay the nori sheet flat and spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto it.
5. Place 1-2 tablespoons of the shrimp-crab mixture in the middle of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or a piece of parchment paper.
7. Slice into individual pieces and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Étouffée
A classic Louisiana-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp and crab with a rich and creamy étouffée sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
2. Add shrimp and crab meat; cook until pink and flaky, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, and flour; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let sauce thicken, about 10 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Stuffed Lobster Tails
Impress your guests with this decadent seafood dish featuring succulent lobster tails stuffed with a flavorful blend of shrimp, crab, and spices. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or romantic dinners.
Ingredients:
– 4 lobster tails (6-8 oz each)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup cooked, peeled, and deveined shrimp
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, shrimp, butter, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Split lobster tails lengthwise, leaving the shell intact. Stuff each tail with the crab-shrimp mixture, dividing it evenly among the four tails.
4. Place stuffed lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until lobster is cooked through.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Paella
This classic Spanish dish combines succulent shrimp, flavorful crab, and savory rice for a satisfying meal. With its bold flavors and easy preparation, this paella recipe is perfect for a weekend dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp and crab meat; cook until pink and heated through, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the rice, water, smoked paprika, and saffron; stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side (optional).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Scampi
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of shrimp with the richness of crab, all wrapped up in a flavorful scampi sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and let melt.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Add crab meat and stir to combine with shrimp.
5. If using white wine, add it and simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these mouth-watering shrimp and crab recipes! From classic Cajun boils to decadent pasta dishes, this collection has something for every taste. Indulge in creamy bisques, savory gumbo, or spicy sushi rolls. Try new twists like stuffed mushrooms, bell peppers, or avocados. Or go classic with shrimp cakes, scampi, or paella. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and exotic, these 18 recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more!