Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Stuffed Baguette
Experience the delightful combination of succulent shrimp and rich garlic butter in this indulgent Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Stuffed Baguette. Perfectly toasted and carefully stuffed with a creamy, flavorful shrimp mixture, this dish is not only a culinary creation to be savored but also an impressive appetizer or main dish for gatherings. Ideal for seafood lovers, this recipe melds the aromatic allure of fresh garlic, the warmth of red chili flakes, and the smoothness of cream cheese to create a mouthwatering experience. Serve it as a crowd-pleasing starter or a cozy family meal, and enjoy the smiles it brings!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Italian baguette
1 large (Hollow out the center)
Unsalted butter
10 tablespoons (Divided)
Garlic
6 cloves (Finely chopped, divided)
Parmesan cheese
3 tablespoons, plus more for garnish (Grated)
Red chili pepper flakes
1 pinch
Dry white wine
1/2 cup
Small shrimp
1 lb (Peeled and deveined)
Cream cheese
4 ounces (Cut into cubes)
Parsley
3 tablespoons (Finely chopped)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to broil. Prepare a baking sheet to hold the baguette.
2
Carefully hollow out the inside of the Italian baguette by cutting a wedge from the top and removing some bread with a serrated knife. This creates a perfect vessel for the shrimp mixture. Place the hollowed baguette on the baking sheet.
3
In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of the finely chopped garlic and stir until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Using a pastry brush, coat the top and interior of the baguette with this garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle the surface with 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese. Broil in the preheated oven for approximately 3-5 minutes, until the bread is golden and toasted. Set aside to cool slightly.
4
In a large skillet, melt the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the remaining chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant, approximately 1-2 minutes. Incorporate a pinch of red chili flakes and the dry white wine, then bring to a gentle boil.
5
Add the small shrimp and cubes of cream cheese into the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook until the shrimp are pink, cooked through, and the cream cheese is melted and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
6
Carefully spoon the shrimp scampi mixture into the prepared baguette, ensuring it's generously filled. Garnish with finely chopped parsley and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an elegant touch. Serve immediately for a deliciously indulgent dish.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Stuffed Baguette?
It is a savory dish featuring succulent shrimp and rich garlic butter stuffed inside a perfectly toasted and hollowed Italian baguette.
What type of bread is best for this recipe?
A large Italian baguette is recommended because its structure holds the shrimp mixture well while becoming crispy when broiled.
How much butter is required for the entire recipe?
The recipe calls for a total of 10 tablespoons of unsalted butter, divided between the bread coating and the shrimp skillet mixture.
How do I prepare the baguette for stuffing?
You should cut a wedge from the top and use a serrated knife to remove some of the bread from the center to create a hollow vessel.
What setting should my oven be on?
The oven should be set to the broil setting to properly toast the garlic butter and Parmesan on the baguette.
How many cloves of garlic are used?
The recipe uses 6 cloves of garlic, which should be finely chopped and divided for both the bread and the sauce.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but you should adjust the amount of additional salt added later to ensure the dish isn't too salty.
How long does it take to broil the bread?
Broil the baguette for approximately 3 to 5 minutes until it is golden and toasted.
What kind of wine should be used for the scampi?
A dry white wine is recommended to provide the traditional aromatic flavor associated with shrimp scampi.
Is the shrimp scampi mixture spicy?
It has a very mild heat due to a pinch of red chili pepper flakes.
What size shrimp should I buy?
Small shrimp are ideal for this recipe as they fit easily inside the hollowed-out baguette.
Do the shrimp need to be prepared before cooking?
Yes, the shrimp should be peeled and deveined before they are added to the skillet.
What is the purpose of the cream cheese?
The cream cheese melts into the wine and butter to create a rich, creamy sauce that binds the shrimp together.
How do I know when the shrimp are finished cooking?
The shrimp are done when they turn pink and are cooked through, which usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes.
What garnish is used for this dish?
The baguette is garnished with finely chopped fresh parsley and an additional sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Can I substitute the white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice mixed with water.
Should the Parmesan cheese be fresh or canned?
Grated fresh Parmesan cheese is preferred for better melting and flavor.
How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
Toasting the inside of the baguette with garlic butter and Parmesan before adding the filling creates a barrier that helps keep it crisp.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
This dish should be served immediately while the bread is crunchy and the shrimp filling is warm and creamy.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.
What can I serve with this stuffed baguette?
It works well as a standalone appetizer or can be served with a light side salad for a full meal.
How many people does this recipe serve?
While servings depend on portion size, one large baguette typically serves 4 to 6 people as an appetizer.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While Parmesan is traditional, you could use Pecorino Romano or even shredded mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Is it necessary to remove the bread 'guts'?
Yes, removing some of the interior bread is essential to make room for a generous amount of the shrimp filling.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It is best made fresh, but you can prepare the garlic butter and chop the ingredients in advance to save time.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
What is the best way to reheat it?
Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes to help the bread regain its crispness.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Finely chopped spinach or sautéed bell peppers would be excellent additions to the shrimp mixture.
What tools do I need for this recipe?
You will need a baking sheet, a serrated knife, a small saucepan, a pastry brush, and a large skillet.
Is this recipe suitable for seafood lovers?
Yes, the combination of fresh garlic and a full pound of shrimp makes it a favorite for seafood enthusiasts.