Shrimp de Jonghe

Shrimp de Jonghe is a delightful and rich dish that features succulent shrimp baked in a buttery, garlicky breadcrumb mixture. This classic recipe is perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner. Pair it with a light salad or your favorite pasta for a complete meal.

What is Shrimp de Jonghe?

Shrimp de Jonghe is a baked dish that originated in the early 20th century at De Jonghe’s Hotel and Restaurant in Chicago. Known for its golden breadcrumb topping and aromatic flavors, it’s traditionally made with large shrimp coated in a mixture of butter, garlic, shallots, and parsley. The dish is baked until the breadcrumbs turn crisp and golden, creating a beautiful textural contrast with the tender shrimp underneath.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Shrimp de Jonghe

Making Shrimp de Jonghe might sound intimidating, but with these tips, you’ll create a dish worthy of a five-star rating:

Use Fresh, High-Quality Shrimp: Opt for large, fresh shrimp (or frozen if fresh is unavailable). Devein and peel them for the best texture.

Season Generously: The success of this dish lies in the buttery breadcrumb mixture. Don’t skimp on garlic, parsley, or your choice of seasoning.

Butter Is Key: Use unsalted butter to control the salt level and let the garlic and herbs shine.

Toast the Breadcrumbs: Pre-toast the breadcrumbs slightly for an extra crunch and deeper flavor.

Cook Shrimp Gently: Avoid overcooking the shrimp during the baking process to keep them tender and juicy.

Variations of Shrimp de Jonghe

This recipe is versatile, allowing for several creative twists:

Panko Breadcrumbs: Swap traditional breadcrumbs with panko for a lighter, crunchier topping.

Add Parmesan Cheese: Mix grated Parmesan into the breadcrumb mixture for added depth.

Use Different Herbs: Substitute parsley with chives, dill, or tarragon for a fresh spin.

Incorporate Spices: Add a pinch of paprika, cayenne pepper, or smoked chili flakes for a kick.

Swap Shrimp for Seafood Medley: Include scallops, lobster, or crab meat for a luxurious variation.

How to Serve Shrimp de Jonghe

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

• Over Pasta: Serve atop linguine or angel hair pasta for a heartier meal.
• With Crusty Bread: Use slices of French bread or a baguette to mop up the buttery sauce.
• As an Appetizer: Present it in smaller portions as a starter at dinner parties.
• With Vegetables: Pair with sautéed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a fresh garden salad for balance.

How to Store Shrimp de Jonghe

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Place in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but reduce the baking time significantly to prevent the shrimp from overcooking. Pre-cooked shrimp only need to be warmed through.

Can I make Shrimp de Jonghe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the breadcrumb mixture and assemble the dish a few hours before serving. Store it in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.

What type of wine pairs well with Shrimp de Jonghe?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the buttery and garlicky flavors beautifully.

Is Shrimp de Jonghe gluten-free?

Not traditionally, but you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

While butter is a defining ingredient, you can substitute dairy-free butter alternatives for a similar flavor.

Yield: 12

Shrimp de Jonghe

Print

Shrimp de Jonghe is a delightful and rich dish that features succulent shrimp baked in a buttery, garlicky breadcrumb mixture

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

• ⅔ cup bread crumbs
• ½ cup dry sherry
• ½ cup butter, melted
• 1 large clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Pinch dried tarragon (to taste)
• Pinch dried marjoram (to taste)
• 3 pounds cooked shrimp
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, minced

Instructions

1. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Get your baking dish ready for some golden perfection.
2. In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, sherry, melted butter, garlic, salt, tarragon, and marjoram.
3. This is your flavorful breadcrumb topping!
4. Spread the cooked shrimp evenly in a baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously over the shrimp and finish with a garnish of fresh parsley.
5. Pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and fragrant.

Nutrition Information

Yield

12

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 232Total Fat 10gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 4gCholesterol 260mgSodium 1416mgCarbohydrates 7gFiber 0gSugar 1gProtein 27g

Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.

Did you make this recipe?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Pinterest

Final Thoughts

Shrimp de Jonghe is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary legacy that brings elegance to any table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or indulging in a quiet night at home, this dish delivers bold, comforting flavors with every bite. By following these tips and experimenting with variations, you can make this Chicago classic your own. So gather your ingredients and start baking—your taste buds will thank you!