Shrimp de Jonghe

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Introduction

Shrimp de Jonghe is the ultimate combination of indulgent and comforting, a classic Chicago-style dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich and buttery breadcrumb topping, all baked to golden perfection. Each bite is infused with the savory flavors of garlic, sherry, and fresh herbs, making it a dish that feels both decadent and approachable. Whether served as an appetizer or the star of your meal, Shrimp de Jonghe is a timeless recipe that belongs in every seafood lover’s repertoire.

One of the things I love most about this dish is its irresistible aroma. As it bakes, the kitchen fills with the rich scent of garlic and butter, creating an atmosphere of pure culinary indulgence. I remember the first time I made Shrimp de Jonghe—it was for a small dinner gathering, and it stole the show. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like an elevated treat yet is so easy to prepare with simple ingredients.

What’s even better is how versatile this dish is. You can add a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of brightness, sprinkle in a bit of paprika for extra depth, or even pair it with crusty bread to soak up the buttery goodness. Whether you’re introducing someone to this Chicago classic or revisiting a nostalgic favorite, Shrimp de Jonghe never disappoints—it’s just that good!

Perfect for:

  • Elegant dinner parties
  • Comfort food on a special night in
  • Family dinners
  • Celebrating holidays or special occasions
  • Serving as an appetizer or main course

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Shrimp de Jonghe will become a favorite in your recipe rotation:

Rich and Flavorful
The buttery breadcrumb topping infused with fragrant garlic and a medley of fresh herbs creates a dish that is bursting with indulgent flavor. The combination of golden, crispy breadcrumbs and tender, succulent shrimp makes every bite a perfect harmony of texture and taste. This timeless Chicago classic is a masterful balance of rich decadence and subtle seasoning, guaranteed to leave everyone coming back for seconds.

Easy to Prepare
Despite its luxurious and restaurant-quality taste, Shrimp de Jonghe is remarkably easy to prepare. With just a handful of simple steps and ingredients, you can have this impressive dish on the table in no time. It’s an excellent recipe for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, making you look like a pro in the kitchen with minimal effort.

Versatile
Shrimp de Jonghe is as versatile as it is delicious. It works beautifully as an elegant appetizer for entertaining, a flavorful side dish that complements a variety of meals, or even a hearty main course when served with crusty bread, pasta, or rice. Its flexibility makes it perfect for any occasion, from holiday feasts to intimate dinners.

Elegant Presentation
This dish looks as good as it tastes. The golden, bubbling breadcrumb topping makes for a stunning visual appeal that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re serving it straight from the skillet or plating it individually, Shrimp de Jonghe exudes a sense of sophistication while keeping the preparation simple and approachable.

Classic Appeal
Shrimp de Jonghe has stood the test of time for good reason. Its timeless combination of everyday ingredients like butter, shrimp, garlic, and breadcrumbs results in a dish that feels both comforting and special. This recipe embodies the charm of classic American cuisine with its roots in old-world flavors, ensuring it will always hold a place in your kitchen for generations to come.

With its mouthwatering flavors, ease of preparation, and adaptability, Shrimp de Jonghe is more than just a dish—it’s a recipe that combines simplicity and elegance in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or treating yourself, this is one dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings as a main dish, 6–8 as an appetizer
  • Calories per Serving: Approximately 300–400 calories

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Mixture:

  • 1 ½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons dry sherry or white wine (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Breadcrumb Topping:

  • 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 ½ cups fresh breadcrumbs (from crusty bread)
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Shrimp: Fresh and plump, shrimp are the star of this dish and pair perfectly with the rich topping.
  • Breadcrumbs: Using fresh breadcrumbs creates a soft yet crispy topping that complements the shrimp.
  • Butter and Herbs: Melted butter and herbs bring richness and aromatics to the dish.
  • Sherry or Wine: Adds depth to the shrimp marinade but can be omitted for a non-alcoholic version.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp Mixture:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or individual ramekins for serving.
  2. Marinate the Shrimp: In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, sherry or wine, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Let sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping:

  1. Mix the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using) until well combined. The mixture should have the texture of wet sand.

Assemble and Bake:

  1. Layer the Dish: Arrange the shrimp in the prepared baking dish in an even layer. Spoon the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top, pressing gently to adhere.
  2. Bake: Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the shrimp are cooked through.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with additional parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges and crusty bread on the side.

How to Serve

Shrimp de Jonghe is versatile and pairs well with a variety of accompaniments:

  1. With Crusty Bread: Perfect for scooping up the buttery topping.
  2. As a Side Dish: Serve alongside steak or roasted chicken for an indulgent meal.
  3. Over Pasta or Rice: Place the shrimp and topping over cooked pasta or rice for a more substantial main dish.
  4. As an Appetizer: Portion into small ramekins for an impressive appetizer.
  5. With a Fresh Salad: Pair with a light salad to balance the rich flavors.

Additional Tips

  • Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp elevate the dish and absorb the marinade best. Frozen shrimp can be used but should be thawed and patted dry.
  • Make Fresh Breadcrumbs: Use a food processor to pulse day-old bread into breadcrumbs for the best texture.
  • Customize the Herbs: Swap thyme for rosemary or tarragon to customize the flavor profile.
  • Avoid Overcooking Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them during baking to ensure they remain tender.
  • Prep Ahead: Assemble the dish up to 6 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Recipe Variations

  1. Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
  2. Garlic-Lovers’ Style: Increase the garlic to 5 cloves for a more pronounced garlic flavor.
  3. Panko Topping: Substitute fresh breadcrumbs with panko for a crispier topping.
  4. Seafood Mix: Add scallops or crab to the shrimp for a seafood medley.
  5. Non-Alcoholic: Replace sherry or wine with chicken or vegetable stock.
  6. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary needs.
  7. Cheesy Twist: Mix grated Parmesan into the breadcrumb topping for added flavor.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Assembled but unbaked Shrimp de Jonghe can be frozen for up to 2 months. Cover tightly with foil and freeze. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Special Equipment

  • Baking dish (9×13-inch or individual ramekins)
  • Food processor for fresh breadcrumbs (optional)
  • Mixing bowls for the shrimp marinade and topping
  • Spatula for assembling the topping

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
    Pre-cooked shrimp can be used, but reduce the baking time to avoid overcooking them.
  2. What can I use instead of sherry?
    Substitute white wine, chicken stock, or a splash of apple cider vinegar.
  3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
    Yes, assemble the dish up to 6 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
  4. How do I ensure the topping is crispy?
    Use fresh breadcrumbs and bake uncovered to achieve a golden, crispy crust.
  5. What other proteins can I use?
    You can replace shrimp with lobster, scallops, or a mix of seafood for a variation.

Conclusion

Shrimp de Jonghe is a decadent and flavorful classic dish that combines tender shrimp with a rich, buttery breadcrumb topping, infused with garlic and herbs. Its luxurious taste and crispy texture make it a standout choice for an appetizer or main course. Beloved for its comforting qualities, it’s a timeless recipe that never fails to impress.

This dish is not only elegant but also relatively simple to prepare. Customize it to your taste by adjusting the level of garlic or incorporating your favorite herbs. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices, or pair it with a light salad for a balanced meal.

Cook up Shrimp de Jonghe and experience a taste of culinary tradition. Share your dish with friends and family, and if you post it online, tag me—I’d love to see and celebrate your masterpiece. Enjoy cooking!

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