As I stood in my kitchen, the vibrant aroma of simmering tomatoes wrapped around me like a warm hug. It was the perfect moment to prepare a dish that always impresses—Shrimp Stuffed Squid in Rich Tomato Sauce. This creation combines tender calamari with a succulent shrimp filling, bathing it in a tangy tomato sauce that sings of home-cooked love. Not only does this recipe elevate your dining experience, but it also offers a little culinary adventure that isn’t too complex, making it perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. Plus, it's a fantastic way to explore seafood beyond the ordinary! Can you imagine the delight on your guests’ faces when you serve this stunning dish? Let’s dive in and discover how to bring this restaurant-quality meal to your table!

Why is this recipe a must-try?

Impressive Presentation: This Shrimp Stuffed Squid is visually stunning, making it the star of any meal. Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of tender calamari and savory shrimp enveloped in rich tomato sauce is a culinary delight. Easy to Master: With straightforward instructions, even novice cooks will find success. Crowd-Pleasing Choice: Perfect for dinner parties, this dish has a wow factor that will impress your guests. Versatile Ingredient Options: Swap shrimp for crab or add a twist with zucchini noodles to cater to different dietary needs. You can also check out Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers for another exciting dish to try!

Shrimp Stuffed Squid Ingredients

For the Tomato Sauce
• Olive Oil – Use extra virgin for enhanced flavor that elevates the dish.
• Onion – Provides an aromatic base; shallots make a milder alternative.
• Garlic – Fresh cloves are preferred for depth of flavor, but pre-minced in a pinch is fine.
• Canned Tomatoes – Opt for whole tomatoes for better texture than diced.
• Tomato Paste – Adds richness; substitute with more fresh tomatoes if needed.
• Oregano – A fragrant herb to season the sauce; Italian seasoning can be used as a variation.
• Basil – Fresh basil shines brighter in flavors, but dried is a suitable substitute.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – For an optional kick; adjust according to your spice preference.
• Salt & Pepper – Basic seasoning, but using sea salt and freshly ground pepper makes a difference.
• Wine – Adds acidity and flavor depth; broth can be a non-alcoholic swap.

For the Stuffing
• Shrimp – The heart of the filling, pureed for a smooth texture; crab or fish can also be used.
• Breadcrumbs – Binds the stuffing together; gluten-free breadcrumbs are a fantastic option.
• Egg – Acts as a binder for the stuffing; a flax egg can replace it for a vegan choice.
• Calamari (Squid) – Main ingredient; choose fresh or frozen, ensuring it's cleaned and prepared well.

This Shrimp Stuffed Squid recipe is a medley of flavors that will surely impress at your next dinner gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp Stuffed Squid in Rich Tomato Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in one 28-ounce can of whole tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of oregano, 1 tablespoon of basil, a pinch of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Make Stuffing
In a food processor, puree 1 pound of shrimp until smooth. In a separate bowl, combine the pureed shrimp with the sautéed onion and garlic from step one, one beaten egg, and ½ cup of breadcrumbs. Mix well until the stuffing is fully combined and holds together, creating a flavorful filling ready for the calamari.

Step 3: Stuff the Squid
Take your cleaned squid bodies and use a small spoon or piping bag to carefully fill each one with the shrimp mixture. Leave about half an inch of space at the open end to allow for expansion during cooking, and seal with toothpicks if needed. Repeat this process until all squid are filled, ensuring they are well-stuffed but not overcrowded.

Step 4: Dust and Brown
Coat the stuffed squid lightly in flour. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the stuffed squid in the hot oil and fry for about 2–3 minutes on each side or until they develop a golden-brown color. Use tongs to turn them gently, ensuring they cook evenly without bursting.

Step 5: Cook in Sauce
Once browned, transfer the stuffed squid to the simmering tomato sauce in the saucepan. Cover the pot and let it cook on low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the squid to absorb the rich flavors of the sauce and ensures they are cooked through, creating a delectable Shrimp Stuffed Squid experience.

Step 6: Fry Tentacles (Optional)
If you have reserved the squid tentacles, you can fry them for garnish. In the same skillet, heat a little more oil over medium heat and fry the tentacles for 3–4 minutes until crispy. This adds a delightful texture for presentation as you prepare to serve.

Step 7: Serve
Using a slotted spoon, arrange the Shrimp Stuffed Squid on a platter over a generous serving of the rich tomato sauce. Garnish with the crispy fried tentacles and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color. Serve this visually stunning dish with sharp knives or toothpicks, making it perfect for a gathering or as an impressive main course at home.

Expert Tips for Shrimp Stuffed Squid

• Stuff Smartly: Ensure you don’t overstuff the squid as they may burst during cooking. Leave a little space at the end for expansion.

• Watch the Sauce: Keep an eye on the sauce thickness while simmering. If it becomes too thick, adding a splash of wine will enhance both flavor and consistency.

• Gloves On: For cleanliness and ease of handling, wear gloves when preparing squid. This also helps avoid any fishy odors lingering on your hands.

• Fry Just Right: When browning the squid, ensure the oil is hot enough; otherwise, they might absorb too much oil instead of frying crisp.

• Flavor Boost: For added depth, consider using a mix of seafood in the stuffing. Crab can enhance the flavor profile of your Shrimp Stuffed Squid beautifully.

Shrimp Stuffed Squid Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize this delightful dish and make it your own with these fun twists and swaps!

Seafood Blend: Swap shrimp for a mix of crab and scallops for a luxurious flavor boost.
Creamy Filling: Add ricotta cheese or cream cheese to the stuffing for a rich and luscious texture.
Zucchini Noodles: Serve your stuffed squid over zucchini noodles for a fresh and gluten-free alternative.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños into the stuffing to add a delicious heat that will excite your palate!
Citrusy Twist: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the finished dish for a bright, refreshing citrus note.
Herbed Delight: Mix fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro into the stuffing for an aromatic twist.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the shrimp with a blend of mushrooms and spinach for a savory vegan treat.
Flavorful Pasta: Serve alongside your favorite pasta to soak up that rich tomato sauce—like in these zesty Shrimp Tacos or delicious Pan Fried Shrimp recipes!

Transform your Shrimp Stuffed Squid by experimenting with these variations and enjoy the adventure of creating your personalized seafood masterpiece!

What to Serve with Shrimp Stuffed Squid in Tomato Sauce

Imagine the aroma of your cozy kitchen filled with delightful dishes, elevating your family mealtime into a heartfelt gathering.

Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery slices allow you to soak up every drop of that rich tomato sauce. A classic pairing that never goes out of style!
Lightly Dressed Arugula Salad: The peppery notes of arugula contrast beautifully with the savory squid, adding a fresh element to your plate. A simple lemon vinaigrette complements both seafood and sauce perfectly.
Creamy Risotto: The creamy texture of risotto pairs wonderfully with the squid’s tender bite, creating a luxurious dining experience that makes every bite memorable.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables drizzled with olive oil enhance your meal with a sweet and smoky flavor, ensuring a well-rounded plate of colors and textures.
Saffron Rice: The floral notes of saffron-infused rice not only elevate the dish’s visual appeal but also echoes the Mediterranean vibes of the stuffed squid, transporting you straight to coastal shores.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc offers a refreshing contrast to the rich tomato sauce, bringing out the flavors of the shrimp and calamari beautifully.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon sorbet cleanses the palate, balancing the meal’s savory richness while providing a refreshing finish to this delightful seafood feast.

Make Ahead Options

These Shrimp Stuffed Squid in Rich Tomato Sauce are a perfect solution for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the tomato sauce and shrimp stuffing up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their fresh flavors. Additionally, you can stuff the squid a few hours before cooking, but it’s best to keep the stuffed squid covered in the fridge until you’re ready to proceed. When it’s time to serve, just follow the final steps of browning the squid and simmering them in the sauce; they will taste just as delicious as if made fresh that day!

How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Stuffed Squid

Fridge: Store leftover Shrimp Stuffed Squid in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave to retain moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stuffed squid before cooking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Cook in sauce on low heat until heated through or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Serving Tip: Serve warm with additional tomato sauce for enhanced flavor and presentation when storing and reheating your delicious Shrimp Stuffed Squid.

Shrimp Stuffed Squid in Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I choose fresh squid for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting squid, look for firm, shiny skin without any dark spots or discoloration. Fresh squid should smell briny but not overly fishy. If you're buying frozen squid, ensure it’s stored at a proper temperature with no signs of freezer burn.

How do I store leftover Shrimp Stuffed Squid?
Leftover Shrimp Stuffed Squid can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To retain moisture during reheating, gently warm it on low heat either on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of tomato sauce if necessary.

Can I freeze Shrimp Stuffed Squid?
Yes! To freeze, prepare the stuffed squid as per the recipe but do not cook them yet. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. For cooking after freezing, thaw in the fridge overnight, then proceed to cook them in the tomato sauce until heated through.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
Very! If your tomato sauce becomes too thick while cooking, simply add a splash of white wine or chicken broth. Stir well and let it simmer for an additional few minutes to ensure the flavors blend. Keeping an eye on the consistency while simmering will help you maintain the right texture for your Shrimp Stuffed Squid.

Are there any common allergies I should be aware of?
When making this Shrimp Stuffed Squid, be mindful of seafood allergies, particularly to shrimp or squid. Also, the recipe contains eggs and breadcrumbs, which can affect individuals with gluten or egg allergies. For gluten-free options, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and consider a flax egg if needed for binding. Always check with guests about dietary restrictions before serving!