Tender calamari tubes filled with a flavorful breadcrumb and herb stuffing, then simmered in a rich garlic butter sauce—this Garlic Herb Stuffed Calamari is an elegant seafood dish perfect for Father’s Day. The combination of fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of lemon zest makes this dish both aromatic and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Elegant Yet Easy – This dish looks impressive but is simple enough for home cooking.
Flavorful & Tender – The stuffing is packed with herbs, garlic, and Parmesan for a rich taste.
Perfectly Cooked Calamari – A quick sear ensures a tender, not rubbery, texture.
Garlic Butter Sauce – Enhances the dish with a silky, savory finish.
Great for Special Occasions – A fantastic choice for Father’s Day or any seafood lover’s meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Stuffed Calamari:

6 large calamari tubes, cleaned
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ cup breadcrumbs
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon zest
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 egg, beaten
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup white wine (or vegetable broth)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Prepare the Stuffing: In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, parsley, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir in the beaten egg to bind the mixture.
Stuff the Calamari: Carefully fill each calamari tube with the breadcrumb mixture, leaving a little space at the top to prevent overstuffing. Secure the open ends with toothpicks.
Sear the Stuffed Calamari: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sear the stuffed calamari for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Pour in white wine and lemon juice, then let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to slightly reduce.
Simmer the Calamari: Return the calamari to the pan and cook for another 5 minutes, occasionally spooning the sauce over them for flavor.
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm with extra sauce.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: 290 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy Kick – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Cheesy Twist – Mix mozzarella into the stuffing for extra richness.
Seafood Stuffing – Add chopped shrimp or crab meat for a more decadent filling.
Grilled Option – Instead of pan-searing, grill the stuffed calamari over medium heat for a smoky touch.
Dairy-Free Version – Omit Parmesan cheese or use a nutritional yeast substitute.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as calamari can become rubbery when thawed.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Gently reheat in a pan over low heat with a splash of broth or butter.
- Oven: Warm at 275°F (135°C) for a few minutes until heated through.

FAQs

How do I clean calamari tubes?

If not pre-cleaned, rinse the tubes and remove any cartilage or internal membranes.

Can I use frozen calamari?

Yes, just thaw them completely before stuffing and cooking.

How do I prevent overcooking calamari?

Cook quickly over medium heat to keep them tender. Overcooking makes them rubbery.

What can I serve with stuffed calamari?

Pair with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.

Can I bake the stuffed calamari instead?

Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to retain moisture.

What type of wine should I use for the sauce?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best.

Can I make the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the stuffing up to 1 day in advance and refrigerate until ready to use.

Do I need to use toothpicks?

Yes, they help keep the stuffing secure during cooking. Remove before serving.

Can I use different herbs?

Absolutely! Try basil, oregano, or thyme for a different flavor profile.

What’s the best way to plate this dish?

Serve on a warm platter with extra sauce and lemon wedges for a stunning presentation.

Conclusion

This Garlic Herb Stuffed Calamari is an elegant and flavorful seafood dish, perfect for Father’s Day or any special occasion. The rich stuffing, tender calamari, and buttery garlic sauce create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a dish that’s sure to impress!

Garlic Herb Stuffed Calamari

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Author: Mari
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Tender calamari tubes filled with a flavorful breadcrumb and herb stuffing, simmered in a rich garlic butter sauce—an elegant seafood dish perfect for Father’s Day!

Instructions

Prepare the Stuffing: In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, garlic, Parmesan cheese, parsley, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir in the beaten egg to bind the mixture.
Stuff the Calamari: Carefully fill each calamari tube with the breadcrumb mixture, securing the open ends with toothpicks.
Sear the Calamari: In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the stuffed calamari for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Pour in white wine and lemon juice, then let simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
Finish Cooking: Return the calamari to the pan and cook for another 5 minutes, basting with the sauce.