There’s a special kind of delight that comes from transforming a simple ingredient into a mouthwatering dish, and that’s exactly what these Baked Shrimp Stuffed Avocados achieve. I first discovered this recipe on a lazy Sunday, when the sun was shining, and I was looking for something fresh yet comforting to indulge in. As the shrimp melds beautifully with the creamy avocado and a hint of lemon, the result is a dish that feels indulgent but remains light and healthy.
Even on the busiest weeknights, this recipe is a lifesaver. Within just 20 minutes, you can impress family or friends with a vibrant meal that boasts a unique flavor combo and stunning presentation. The warm, melted cheddar on top adds just the right amount of savory finish to this already delightful dish. Whether you’re gathering for a casual dinner or looking for an easy yet impressive lunch option, these Baked Shrimp Stuffed Avocados are just the ticket. Let’s dive into how to create this culinary treasure!
Why are Baked Shrimp Stuffed Avocados unforgettable?
Deliciously Unique: This dish transforms ordinary avocados into a flavorful masterpiece, bringing a delightful twist to your dining experience.
Healthy Comfort: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies your cravings without weighing you down.
Quick & Easy: In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this impressive meal, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy these stuffed avocados as a filling appetizer, light lunch, or even as a main course—so many possibilities!
Crowd-Pleaser: With vibrant colors and incredible flavor, they’re sure to impress family and friends, making you the star of any gathering!
For more quick meals, check out our collection of easy dinner recipes.
Baked Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Ingredients
Get ready to whip up these mouthwatering baked shrimp stuffed avocados with everything you need right here!
For the Avocado Base
- Large ripe avocados – 3, choose ones that yield slightly when pressed for perfect creaminess.
For the Shrimp Filling
- Cooked shrimp – 1/2 lb, using pre-cooked shrimp saves time and adds delightful protein.
- Light mayonnaise – 2 tbsp, for a creamy texture without too many calories.
- Mashed avocado – 1/4 cup, enhances creaminess and pairs beautifully with the shrimp.
- Garlic powder – 1/4 tsp, adds a subtle, savory flavor that elevates the dish.
- Lemon juice – 2 tsp, brightens the filling and brings everything together.
- Ground black pepper – to taste, season wisely for that extra kick!
For the Topping
- Shredded white cheddar cheese – 1/4 cup, melty goodness that adds richness to each bite.
- Smoked paprika – sprinkle for a touch of warmth and color that makes the dish pop.
- Finely chopped parsley – 1/2 tsp, a fresh, vibrant finish that enhances both flavor and presentation.
With these ingredients at hand, you’re all set to create a succulent dish that not only looks great but tastes even better. Enjoy diving into the world of Baked Shrimp Stuffed Avocados!
How to Make Baked Shrimp Stuffed Avocados
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Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Meanwhile, line a large baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to set up for easy cleanup later.
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Mix Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, light mayonnaise, mashed avocado, garlic powder, and lemon juice. Stir everything together until well blended, adding ground black pepper to taste for that extra zing.
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Stuff Avocados: Carefully scoop the shrimp mixture into each avocado half, packing it nicely without overdoing it. Sprinkle the shredded white cheddar cheese generously on top of each stuffed avocado.
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Bake: Place the stuffed avocados on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes. Look for the cheese to melt and the filling to become warm and inviting.
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Garnish: Once baked, remove them from the oven and garnish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika and chopped parsley before plating them up to serve.
Optional: Serve with extra lemon wedges for a fresh squeeze!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Baked Shrimp Stuffed Avocados
Fridge: Keep leftover Baked Shrimp Stuffed Avocados in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Store them without toppings to maintain the best texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the avocado halves stuffed with shrimp filling (without cheese) for up to 1 month. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag.
Reheating: Thaw frozen stuffed avocados in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, adding cheese for the last 5 minutes until melted.
Serving Fresh: These avocados are best enjoyed fresh, so plan to make just what you’ll eat if possible, ensuring that each bite is warm, cheesy, and delicious!
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Shrimp Stuffed Avocados are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the shrimp filling (combining cooked shrimp, mayonnaise, mashed avocado, garlic powder, and lemon juice) up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can slice the avocados and give them a squeeze of lemon juice before sealing them to prevent browning. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dish, simply stuff the avocados with the prepared shrimp mixture, sprinkle with cheese, and bake for 8-10 minutes until warmed through. This way, you can serve a delicious and impressive meal with minimal effort during busy weeknights!
Baked Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Variations
Let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful avocados to suit your taste!
- Spicy Twist: Add 1/2 tsp of diced jalapeños into the shrimp mixture for a zesty kick. Enjoy the burst of heat!
- Citrus Freshness: Swap lemon juice for lime juice to give a refreshing twist that brightens every bite. Perfect for summer!
- Creamy Avocado: For an extra creamy filling, include 1/4 cup of cream cheese or sour cream into the shrimp mix. Your taste buds will thank you!
- Cheese Lovers: Boost the flavor by mixing different cheeses like pepper jack for a little kick or feta for a tangy surprise. Who can say no to cheese?
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or dill for an aromatic touch that elevates the dish to new heights. Each bite becomes an herbaceous delight!
- Crunchy Topping: Finish with crispy breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips before baking for an added texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with black beans or chickpeas for a protein-packed vegetarian version that maintains the heartiness!
- Savory Bacon: For an indulgent twist, sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the cheese just before baking. The smoky flavor complements the avocados perfectly!
Tips for the Best Baked Shrimp Stuffed Avocados
Quality Shrimp Matters: Choose fresh or high-quality cooked shrimp for the best flavor. Avoid overcooked shrimp, as they can become rubbery in texture.
Ripe Avocados: Select avocados that are slightly soft to ensure a creamy filling. Hard avocados will be difficult to scoop and won’t blend well with the shrimp.
Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning! Adjust garlic powder and black pepper to suit your taste, making sure each bite of your baked shrimp stuffed avocados is full of flavor.
Avoid Soggy Filling: Ensure the shrimp is well-drained, as excess moisture can make the avocado soggy. This will keep your dish perfectly creamy without becoming a mushy mess.
Cook Time Check: Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary. Remove the avocados once the cheese melts and begins to slightly brown for the best texture and flavor.
What to Serve with Baked Shrimp Stuffed Avocados?
Elevate your meal with delightful accompaniments that complement the delicious flavors of stuffed avocados!
- Crispy Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky crunch is a perfect contrast to the creamy filling, making each bite memorable.
- Light Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine drizzled with tangy dressing and topped with parmesan brings freshness that balances the richness of the avocados.
- Grilled Asparagus: Tender yet slightly charred, this vegetable dish adds a satisfying texture and a hint of smoky flavor to your meal.
- Lemon Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa with a zesty lemon twist enhances the dish with a wholesome grain option that adds heartiness without overwhelming the palate.
- Tomato Basil Bruschetta: The freshness of tomatoes and basil on crusty bread is a bright and savory addition that invites conversation and compliments the shrimp.
- Mango Salsa: A vibrant mix of sweet and spicy, this salsa adds a refreshing burst of tropical flavor that plays beautifully with the seafood.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: Clean and refreshing, this drink enhances your dining experience while cleansing the palate between bites.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, the rich and silky chocolate mousse is a luxurious and satisfying finish after the light shrimp avocado dish.
Baked Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe avocados?
Absolutely! When selecting avocados, look for ones that yield slightly when pressed gently in your palm. This indicates ripeness and creaminess. Avoid ones with dark spots all over or that feel overly mushy, as they may be overripe.
How should I store leftover Baked Shrimp Stuffed Avocados?
For sure! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the best texture, it’s a good idea to keep them without the cheese toppings until you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers.
Can I freeze Baked Shrimp Stuffed Avocados?
Absolutely! You can freeze the avocado halves stuffed with shrimp filling (without cheese) for up to 1 month. Wrap each half tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes, adding cheese for the last 5 minutes.
What do I do if my shrimp is overcooked?
Very! If your shrimp turn out rubbery, it’s often due to overcooking. To avoid this, ensure your shrimp are cooked just before combining them in the filling. For a tender texture, cook shrimp only until they’re pink and opaque, and no longer than a few minutes on the heat before using them in the recipe.
Are these Baked Shrimp Stuffed Avocados suitable for those with shellfish allergies?
Absolutely not! If you or your guests have shellfish allergies, I recommend substituting the shrimp with a protein you can enjoy, such as cooked chicken, tofu, or even black beans for a vegetarian twist. Just make sure to adjust any seasonings accordingly.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Of course! You can prepare the shrimp filling a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and stuff the avocados just before baking to keep them fresh and vibrant. This way, you’ll have an easy and delicious meal ready to pop in the oven after a busy day!
Baked Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Recipe FAQs
Baked Shrimp Stuffed Avocados: A Flavorful Twist You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a large baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, light mayonnaise, mashed avocado, garlic powder, and lemon juice. Stir until well blended, adding ground black pepper to taste.
- Carefully scoop the shrimp mixture into each avocado half, packing it nicely. Sprinkle the shredded white cheddar cheese on top.
- Place the stuffed avocados on the baking sheet and bake for about 8-10 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with smoked paprika and chopped parsley before serving.
