Looking for an indulgent and impressive seafood dish that will wow your guests? This Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is exactly what you need! Filled with a creamy, cheesy seafood blend of shrimp, crab, melted mozzarella, and cheddar, this dish is a true seafood lover’s dream. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or just craving something indulgent, this recipe promises to deliver big flavors and a satisfying texture with every bite.
With its savory stuffing inside freshly baked bread bowls, this seafood delight is both an appetizer and a main dish in one. It’s creamy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this delicious stuffed seafood bread bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl
The best part about this Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is that it combines all the best elements of a seafood dish in a fun and unique way. You get all the goodness of shrimp, crab, cheese, and seasoning, stuffed inside a hollowed-out bread bowl. The melted cheese and seafood flavors meld together perfectly, creating a rich, indulgent treat. This recipe is:
- Easy to make – Everything is prepared in a few simple steps.
- Crowd-pleasing – The combination of seafood and cheese is sure to impress.
- Perfectly creamy – Thanks to cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise.
- Great for parties or family dinners – Ideal for sharing or for a special treat.
Ingredients You Need for This Seafood Bread Bowl Recipe
Before you start, make sure you gather all your ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this heavenly Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl:
For the Stuffed Seafood Filling:
- 2 large bread bowls (sourdough or French bread) – These serve as the perfect vessel for holding all that delicious seafood goodness.
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped – Shrimp adds a delicate, sweet flavor that balances out the richness of the cheeses.
- 1/2 lb lump crab meat – The crab meat contributes to the dish’s luxurious texture and subtle sweetness.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Mozzarella adds a melty texture that binds everything together.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Cheddar adds a sharp flavor that complements the seafood.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened – Cream cheese brings a rich, velvety smoothness to the seafood mixture.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and depth of flavor.
- 1/4 cup sour cream – Gives the filling a tangy balance against the richness of the cream cheese.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic enhances the dish with aromatic and savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning – A classic seafood seasoning that brings in the perfect blend of herbs and spices.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a smoky undertone that makes the dish even more flavorful.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – For a bit of heat and to season the filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors of the seafood and cheese.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish) – Parsley adds a fresh and vibrant flavor to the filling and serves as a garnish for a pop of color.
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted – Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic and shrimp to perfection.
- Juice of 1/2 lemon – Fresh lemon juice brightens up the filling and balances out the creaminess.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowls
Now that you’ve got all the ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create your own Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl:
1. Preheat the Oven
The first step is to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the bread bowls bake to perfection and that the seafood filling melts beautifully when added.
Once the oven is preheated, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help make cleanup easier and ensure that your bread bowls don’t stick to the pan.
2. Prepare the Bread Bowls
Start by preparing your bread bowls. Cut the tops off the bread bowls and carefully hollow out the inside. Leave about 1/2 inch of bread around the edges to form a sturdy shell. Make sure you don’t remove too much of the bread, as you need it to hold all the stuffing. Once hollowed, set the bread bowls aside.
You can use either sourdough or French bread for this recipe, depending on your preference. Sourdough adds a tangy flavor, while French bread offers a milder, softer texture. Either choice will work wonderfully!
3. Cook the Shrimp and Garlic
In a medium pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Garlic should never be overcooked, as it can turn bitter. After the garlic is aromatic, add the chopped shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the heat and set them aside to cool slightly.
This step is crucial for infusing the shrimp with the buttery, garlicky goodness that will elevate the entire dish.
4. Mix the Seafood Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and lemon juice. Stir the mixture together until it’s smooth and well-combined. The cream cheese and mayonnaise create a rich, velvety base for the seafood, while the Old Bay seasoning and smoked paprika give the filling its signature flavor profile.
Next, gently fold in the cooked shrimp, lump crab meat, mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and fresh parsley. The mixture should be thick, creamy, and packed with seafood flavor. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.
5. Stuff the Bread Bowls
Now, take the hollowed-out bread bowls and fill them with the seafood mixture. Use a spoon to pack the filling in tightly and ensure each bowl is filled to the top. Don’t worry if the filling spills over a little – that’s all part of the fun!
6. Bake to Perfection
Once your bread bowls are filled with the creamy seafood mixture, place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake the bread bowls in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tops of the bread bowls are slightly golden. The cheese should be gooey, and the filling should be hot and perfectly set.
7. Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the stuffed bread bowls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. To serve, garnish the bread bowls with extra chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
These Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowls can be served as a hearty appetizer or a main dish. Pair them with toasted bread cubes or crackers for dipping to soak up any leftover cheesy filling.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl
- Use fresh seafood: Fresh shrimp and crab meat will give the dish the best flavor. Frozen options are fine, but be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before cooking.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply stuff the bread bowls and bake them when you’re ready to serve.
- Customize the filling: Feel free to add other seafood like scallops or lobster to make this recipe even more luxurious. You can also mix in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added texture.
- Spicy option: For those who love a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the filling.
Nutritional Information
For those keeping an eye on their calorie intake, here’s the nutritional breakdown for one serving of Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl:
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
While this dish is indulgent, it provides a balanced amount of protein and flavor, making it a great treat for any special occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes! While sourdough and French bread works best for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of bread like ciabatta or Italian bread. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling.
How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
To prevent sogginess, be sure to hollow out the bread bowl, leaving enough bread to hold the filling. You can also brush the inside of the bread bowl with a little butter before stuffing it to create a barrier between the filling and the bread.
Can I freeze the Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl?
Yes, you can freeze the bread bowl filled with the seafood mixture before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake according to the recipe instructions.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Seafood Comfort Food
The Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is the perfect comfort food that combines indulgent flavors and the charm of a fun, handheld dish. It’s perfect for any occasion – from dinner parties to family gatherings. The creamy, cheesy seafood mixture, paired with the soft, slightly crispy bread bowl, creates a flavor-packed bite that’s sure to become a family favorite.
If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share your creation on social media! And for more delicious ideas, check out these other recipes you’re sure to enjoy:
Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl – Easy, Cheesy, and Flavorful
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl combines succulent shrimp, crab meat, and creamy cheese baked inside a crispy bread bowl. The rich, cheesy seafood filling will have you coming back for more, making it the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or just treating yourself!
Ingredients
- 2 large bread bowls (sourdough or French bread)
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1/2 lb lump crab meat
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. -
Prepare the Bread Bowls:
Cut the tops off the bread bowls and hollow them out, leaving about 1/2-inch of bread around the edges. Set aside. -
Make the Seafood Filling:
In a medium pan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink. Remove from heat and set aside. -
Mix the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth. Fold in the cooked shrimp, crab meat, mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and fresh parsley. -
Stuff the Bread Bowls:
Evenly divide the seafood mixture between the two hollowed-out bread bowls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. -
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. -
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with extra fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and savory Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl with a side of toasted bread cubes or crackers!
Notes
- Feel free to add a little spice by incorporating red pepper flakes into the seafood filling for an extra kick!
- If you prefer a stronger seafood flavor, you can use lobster or scallops instead of shrimp.
- You can make the seafood mixture ahead of time and stuff the bread bowls just before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bread bowl
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 130mg