Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Flounder Recipe
You’re going to love this stuffed flounder recipe for its incredible combination of flavors and ease of preparation.
I can’t tell you how satisfying it’s to create a dish that impresses everyone at the table without spending hours in the kitchen. The tender flounder perfectly complements the savory shrimp and garlic filling, making each bite a delightful experience.
Plus, it’s quick to whip up, so even on busy nights, I can still serve something special. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation.
It’s simply a winner for any occasion!
Ingredients of Stuffed Flounder
When it comes to cooking, having the right ingredients on hand is essential, and this stuffed flounder recipe is no exception. The good news? You likely won’t need to make a special trip to the store for fancy ingredients. Most of these items are common and can be easily found in your kitchen or local grocery store.
So, let’s explore what you’ll need to create this delightful dish that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients for Stuffed Flounder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 lb peeled and deveined shrimp, cut up
- 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/3-1/2 cup unseasoned dried breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 1 lb flounder fillets
- 1/4 cup white wine or 1/4 cup nonalcoholic white wine
- 1/2 tablespoon parsley
Now, let’s talk about the ingredients a bit more. The flounder is the star of the show—its delicate flavor and flaky texture make it perfect for stuffing.
If you can’t find flounder, don’t fret! Other mild white fish, like sole or tilapia, can work just as well. For the shrimp, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could even swap it out for crab meat or scallops.
And when it comes to the breadcrumbs, using seasoned ones can add a little extra flavor, but be sure to adjust your seasoning accordingly.
How to Make Stuffed Flounder
Alright, let’s plunge into making that mouthwatering stuffed flounder. First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to a cozy 350 degrees F.
While that warmth is building up, grab a large skillet and heat up 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Now, here comes the fun part: add in 1/2 lb of peeled and deveined shrimp that you’ve cut up into bite-sized pieces, along with 1/2 teaspoon of minced garlic. You’ll want to stir that around for about 5 minutes until the shrimp turn a lovely opaque color. Seriously, the aroma will make your kitchen feel like a fancy seafood restaurant.
Once that’s done, scoop the shrimp and garlic into a large bowl and let them chill for a moment.
Next, it’s time to add some pizzazz to that shrimp. Toss in 1/3 to 1/2 cup of unseasoned dried breadcrumbs and 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese. Get in there with a fork or your hands and mix it all up. It should be a nice, chunky filling that’s just waiting to be enveloped by the flounder.
Speaking of which, take 1 lb of flounder fillets and lay them out on a clean work surface. Think of them as little canvas waiting to be painted with flavor. Spoon the shrimp mixture evenly onto each fillet, spreading it almost all the way to the edges. Now, roll them up from one end to the other, like you’re wrapping a tiny fish burrito. Secure each roll with wooden picks—this is where you’ll want to channel your inner chef.
Place those delightful rolls into a 13 x 9 baking dish, pour in 1/4 cup of white wine (or nonalcoholic wine, if that’s your jam), and sprinkle with 1/2 tablespoon of parsley for that pop of color.
Finally, pop the dish into the oven and let it bake for about 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the fish flakes easily with a fork. Isn’t that satisfying? It’s like unwrapping a present that’s been waiting for you.
Once it’s out, let it cool for just a minute; trust me, you don’t want to burn your tongue on this masterpiece. Serve it up, and enjoy the symphony of flavors. Who knew making seafood could be this easy and delicious?
Stuffed Flounder Substitutions & Variations
While sticking to the classic stuffed flounder recipe is always a great choice, experimenting with substitutions and variations can elevate your dish even further.
For instance, I love swapping shrimp for crab meat or even a mix of scallops for a richer flavor. You can also try different cheeses, like feta or goat cheese, for a tangy twist.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, use quinoa instead of breadcrumbs. For added freshness, toss in some chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes.
Don’t be afraid to get creative; the possibilities are endless, and I guarantee you’ll discover new favorites!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your stuffed flounder turns out perfectly, I recommend prepping all your ingredients before you start cooking. It not only makes the process smoother but also helps you avoid any last-minute scrambling.
When rolling the fillets, make sure they’re tightly secured to keep the filling from spilling out. If you want extra flavor, consider adding lemon zest or a sprinkle of paprika to the shrimp mixture.
Don’t forget to let the fish rest for a couple of minutes after baking; this helps with the flakiness. Finally, serve with a fresh salad for a delightful meal!