Stuffed Squid Shrimp: Savory & Easy Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Why Stuffed Squid Shrimp is a Must-Try Dish

Picture this: a cozy dinner party with friends, laughter filling the room, and the aroma of something truly special wafting from the kitchen. That’s exactly what happened when I first made Stuffed Squid Shrimp. This dish is like a warm hug in food form—rich, flavorful, and just fancy enough to impress without breaking a sweat. If you’ve never tried calamari stuffed with shrimp, you’re in for a treat. It’s tender, juicy, and packed with layers of flavor that will have your guests asking for seconds (and the recipe).

The Story Behind Stuffed Squid Shrimp

This dish has roots in Mediterranean cuisine, where seafood is king. Calamari and shrimp are staples along coastal regions, and stuffing one with the other is a clever way to elevate both ingredients. The first time I encountered this dish was at a tiny seaside restaurant in Italy. The chef explained how it’s a favorite for celebrations because it feels indulgent yet comforting. When I got home, I decided to recreate it with my own twist, using wild Gulf shrimp and San Marzano tomatoes for the sauce. It’s become a family favorite ever since.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Stuffed Squid Shrimp is a showstopper for many reasons. First, it’s surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re new to working with squid. The combination of tender calamari and savory shrimp filling is a match made in heaven. Plus, the tomato sauce ties everything together with its rich, slightly tangy flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to spice up your weeknight dinner, this dish delivers big on taste without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Perfect Occasions to Prepare Stuffed Squid Shrimp

This dish shines at dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or even romantic date nights. Imagine serving it as part of a tapas spread or as the main course for a birthday celebration. It’s also perfect for those “just because” moments when you want to treat yourself. Pair it with crusty bread and a crisp white wine, and you’ve got a meal that feels downright luxurious.

Ingredients for Stuffed Squid Shrimp

• 12 medium-sized calamari, cleaned (both bodies and tentacles)
• 10 oz (280 g) wild Gulf shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tail-off
• 1 tsp finely chopped garlic
• 2 tsp finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs or dry breadcrumbs
• 1 small egg
• Seasoned flour or Drakes Batter Mix
• Olive oil
• 1/2 bunch of finely chopped Italian parsley
• Toothpicks
• 2 cans (28 oz each) of San Marzano tomatoes
• 2 tbsp Italian tomato paste
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• A pinch of red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Substitution Options

• If you can’t find wild Gulf shrimp, use any fresh shrimp available.
• Panko breadcrumbs can be swapped for regular breadcrumbs.
• Instead of seasoned flour, plain flour mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper works fine.
• Fresh tomatoes can replace canned ones if they’re ripe and flavorful.

Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it shimmer before tossing in the chopped onion and garlic. Stir them gently until they turn golden brown, releasing their sweet aroma. Next, pour in the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce come to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Pro tip: Crush the tomatoes with your hands or a spoon for a chunkier texture.

Step 2: Make the Shrimp Filling

In a food processor, pulse the shrimp until smooth. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the chopped onion, garlic, egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix everything thoroughly—it should feel sticky but hold together well. Use a small spoon to stuff each calamari tube evenly, leaving about 2 cm of space at the top. Secure the opening with a toothpick. Pro tip: Save the tentacles to fry later or toss them into the sauce for extra flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Stuffed Squid

Lightly coat the stuffed calamari in seasoned flour or batter mix. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the calamari for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Once done, transfer them to the simmering tomato sauce. Cover the pot and let everything cook gently for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally and add water if the sauce thickens too much. Chef’s tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying to ensure an even golden crust.

Step 4: Fry the Tentacles (Optional)

For a crunchy garnish, dip the calamari tentacles in milk, then coat them in flour. Fry them in hot oil until crispy and golden, about 2-3 minutes. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt. These make a fantastic topping for your finished dish.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the Stuffed Squid Shrimp on a platter, drizzle with sauce, and scatter the fried tentacles and parsley on top. Serve with sharp knives for slicing or pre-cut them for bite-sized portions. This presentation is sure to wow your guests!

Timing

• Prep time: 30 minutes
• Cooking time: 40 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Chef’s Secret

For an extra burst of flavor, add a splash of white wine to the tomato sauce while it simmers. It enhances the sweetness of the tomatoes and adds depth to the dish.

Extra Info

Did you know that calamari is not only delicious but also nutritious? It’s low in fat and high in protein, making it a great choice for health-conscious eaters. Plus, pairing it with shrimp adds omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health.

Necessary Equipment

• Large pot for the sauce
• Skillet for frying
• Food processor or blender
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Toothpicks

Storage Tips

To store leftover Stuffed Squid Shrimp, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the texture of the calamari.

If you’d like to freeze the dish, omit the fried tentacles and freeze the stuffed calamari in the sauce. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly.

Never microwave the dish directly, as it can make the calamari rubbery. Instead, use a saucepan over low heat.

Tips and Advice

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Don’t overstuff the calamari tubes, as the filling expands during cooking.
• Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust seasoning as needed.

Presentation Ideas

• Serve on a rustic wooden board for a chic look.
• Garnish with lemon wedges for a pop of color.
• Add edible flowers for an elegant touch.

Healthier Alternatives

Here are six variations to make this dish lighter:

1. Baked Version: Skip frying and bake the stuffed calamari in the sauce at 375°F for 25 minutes.
2. Zucchini Boats: Replace calamari with zucchini halves for a vegetarian option.
3. Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs: Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones.
4. Low-Sodium Sauce: Use no-salt-added tomatoes and reduce added salt.
5. Herb-Crusted: Add more herbs to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
6. Spice It Up: Increase red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

Mistake 1: Overcooking the Calamari

Overcooked calamari turns rubbery, ruining the dish’s texture. This happens when the squid is left in the sauce too long or fried at too high a temperature. To avoid this, cook the calamari just until tender and remove it promptly. Pro tip: Test one piece for doneness before serving.

Mistake 2: Skipping the Toothpicks

Without toothpicks, the filling may spill out during cooking. Always secure the openings tightly to keep the stuffing intact.

Mistake 3: Using Low-Quality Tomatoes

Canned tomatoes vary greatly in quality. Opt for San Marzano or another premium brand for the best flavor.

FAQ

What is Stuffed Squid Shrimp?

It’s a dish where calamari tubes are filled with a savory shrimp mixture, cooked in a rich tomato sauce, and served as a main course or appetizer.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed calamari and refrigerate it until ready to cook. Just bring it to room temperature before frying or simmering.

Is it difficult to clean calamari?

Not at all! There are plenty of online tutorials to guide you. Alternatively, ask your fishmonger to clean them for you.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before using.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Add a splash of water or broth while simmering to maintain the desired consistency.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Crusty bread, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad complement the flavors beautifully.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Definitely! Increase the red pepper flakes or add diced chili peppers to the sauce.

What wine pairs best with Stuffed Squid Shrimp?

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio balances the richness of the dish perfectly.

Can I use other types of seafood?

Yes, crab or scallops work well as substitutes for shrimp.

How do I know when the calamari is cooked?

The calamari will turn opaque and firm to the touch. Avoid overcooking to keep it tender.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed Squid Shrimp is a dish that combines elegance and simplicity, making it perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and impressive presentation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So grab some fresh calamari and shrimp, roll up your sleeves, and give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!