Italian Stuffed Calamari Recipe

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If you’re looking to wow your family or friends with something truly special, this Italian Stuffed Calamari Recipe will do just that. Tender squid tubes generously filled with a flavorful blend of savory Italian sausage, fresh herbs, parmesan, and just the right kick of garlic and red pepper flakes, all simmered gently in a rich, vibrant marinara sauce. This dish brings together the heart of traditional Italian cooking with an elegant twist, delivering a perfect balance of textures and tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a starring role in creating the deep, irresistible flavors and textures that make this Italian Stuffed Calamari Recipe a standout. From the fresh squid to the fragrant parsley, each element is simple but essential to the final dish.

• Whole squid (10-15, medium to large sized): Look for fresh squid with tubes and tentacles separated for easier stuffing and chopping.
• Ground sweet Italian sausage (8 ounces): Adds a rich, savory base with a touch of sweetness that complements the seafood perfectly.
• Minced fresh garlic (2 tablespoons): Gives a fragrant punch that elevates the entire dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes (1 pinch): Just enough heat to add excitement without overpowering the flavors.
• Plain breadcrumbs (¼ cup): Helps bind the filling while adding just a little texture.
• Grated parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Provides a salty, nutty dimension; pecorino romano works wonderfully here too.
• Chopped fresh parsley (2 tablespoons plus extra for garnish): Fresh herbs brighten and balance the richness beautifully.
• Kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for enhancing all the flavors naturally.
• Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds subtle depth and warmth.
• Extra virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons): Used for searing the stuffed calamari and building flavor in the pan.
• Italian gravy or marinara sauce (3 cups): The luscious, tangy sauce that ties everything together in a cozy, comforting way.

How to Make Italian Stuffed Calamari Recipe

Step 1: Clean and Separate

Begin by carefully cleaning the squid if you’re working with whole squid. Separate the tubes from the tentacles, making sure each tube is clean and ready for stuffing. Pat the tubes dry with paper towels so they hold the filling nicely without becoming soggy.

Step 2: Chop the Tentacles

Finely chop the tentacles into small pieces that will blend perfectly into the filling mixture. These add bite and tender seafood flavor that complement the sausage beautifully.

Step 3: Cook the Sausage

Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat on the stovetop. Cook the ground sweet Italian sausage for about 5 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula until it’s browned and cooked through. This step builds a rich, hearty base for the stuffing.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Spice

Stir in the minced garlic and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant. This layers in garlic’s robust aroma and just a hint of heat that livens up the filling.

Step 5: Combine Filling Ingredients

Transfer the sausage mixture to a food processor. Add the chopped tentacles, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Pulse and mix for 30 to 60 seconds until everything is blended into a cohesive, flavorful filling.

Step 6: Stuff the Squid Tubes

Using a small spoon or your fingers, gently stuff each squid tube with the savory filling. Be careful not to overstuff as the filling will expand slightly during cooking. Pinch the ends of each tube closed to seal in the delicious mixture.

Step 7: Sear the Stuffed Calamari

Add the extra virgin olive oil to the skillet used for the sausage and heat over medium. Carefully place the stuffed calamari tubes in a single layer and sear for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they develop a lovely light brown crust. This adds flavor and texture to the dish.

Step 8: Simmer in Italian Gravy

Pour the Italian gravy or marinara sauce over the stuffed calamari tubes, enough to cover them nicely. Transfer the skillet to a preheated 350˚F oven and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. The sauce will bubble and infuse the calamari with its wonderful flavors, while the filling cooks through to a safe 165˚ temperature.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a vibrant pop of color and fresh flavor. Your Italian Stuffed Calamari Recipe is now ready to share and enjoy!

How to Serve Italian Stuffed Calamari Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley is a must for a bright, herbal note that contrasts the rich filling. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or an extra sprinkle of grated parmesan can also add a nice finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This stuffed calamari pairs beautifully with light sides like a crisp green salad or garlic-roasted vegetables. Creamy polenta or crusty Italian bread is perfect for soaking up the luscious marinara sauce. For a more filling meal, try serving it alongside a simple pasta tossed in olive oil and fresh herbs.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the stuffed calamari tubes neatly on a large platter, pouring extra sauce around for a rustic Italian look. For a more elegant touch, place individual calamari on small plates with a garnish of microgreens or edible flowers for a restaurant-quality presentation that will impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Italian Stuffed Calamari Recipe keeps well covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store in an airtight container to preserve moisture and flavor. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze the stuffed calamari before cooking by wrapping each tube tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag for up to 1 month. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking as instructed. Avoid freezing after cooking, as texture may change.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in a warm oven to keep the calamari tender and prevent drying out. Avoid using the microwave if possible to maintain the ideal texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen squid for this Italian Stuffed Calamari Recipe?

Yes, frozen squid works well as long as it’s fully thawed and patted dry before stuffing. This helps the filling adhere better and prevents excess moisture during cooking.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the plain breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I prepare the stuffed calamari in advance?

Definitely. You can prepare and stuff the squid tubes ahead of time and refrigerate them for a few hours before cooking. This makes dinner preparation easier and allows flavors to meld.

What’s the best type of sausage to use?

Sweet Italian sausage is the ideal choice for this recipe because of its perfect balance of spices and slight sweetness that complements the squid. However, you can also try spicy Italian sausage for a bolder flavor.

Can I bake the stuffed calamari without searing first?

While you can, searing adds a wonderful texture and intensifies the flavor. If time is tight, you can skip it, but the dish will be richer and more complex if you don’t.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Stuffed Calamari Recipe is a beautiful blend of flavors and textures that celebrate the best of Italian cooking. It’s a dish that brings warmth to the table and a touch of elegance sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you. Give it a try—you might just discover a new favorite that becomes a cherished tradition!

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