These stuffed seafood bread bowls are creamy, flavorful, and perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a luxurious meal. Filled with a cheesy seafood mixture and served in crispy bread bowls, they’re a comforting and delicious treat.
Ingredients
For the Seafood Filling:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1 cup crab meat (imitation or real)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the Bread Bowls:
- 4 round bread loaves (e.g., sourdough or boule)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Bowls
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice off the tops of the bread loaves and hollow out the centers, leaving about ½-inch thickness as a shell. Reserve the bread insides for dipping or breadcrumbs.
- Brush the inside of the bread bowls with olive oil or melted butter. Place them on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5–7 minutes until lightly crisp.
Step 2: Make the Seafood Filling
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2 minutes. Stir in the crab meat.
- Reduce the heat to low and mix in the heavy cream, cream cheese, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese.
- Add Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the mixture is creamy.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Spoon the seafood filling into the prepared bread bowls, mounding it slightly on top.
- Place the filled bread bowls back on the baking sheet. Sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top if desired.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the tops are golden and bubbly.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve the stuffed seafood bread bowls hot, garnished with extra parsley.
- Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Seafood Options: Add scallops, lobster, or white fish for variety.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Leftovers: The filling can be made ahead and reheated before stuffing the bread bowls.
Enjoy these Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowls, a rich and decadent dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers! 🦀🦐🥖