Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The combination of shrimp and crab with the creamy filling makes this Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl a perfect comfort food for seafood lovers. The creamy mixture is perfectly balanced by the crispy, yet soft, bread bowl that holds everything together. The melty mozzarella cheese ties everything together, creating a deliciously warm, cheesy dish that’s impossible to resist. Whether it’s a casual snack or the star of your appetizer spread, this bread bowl is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 lb lump crab meat
- 1/2 lb cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Bread Bowl: Start by choosing a round loaf of bread (such as a sourdough or French bread). Cut out the center to create a bowl, making sure to leave a thick border around the edges for support. Set the hollowed-out bread aside, and reserve the removed bread for dipping later.
- Make the Seafood Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, chopped shrimp, shredded mozzarella, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and finely chopped green onions. Stir until well combined and creamy.
- Fill the Bread Bowl: Spoon the seafood mixture into the hollowed-out bread bowl, packing it in tightly.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffed bread bowl on a baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is hot and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Once out of the oven, let the bread bowl cool slightly. Serve with the reserved bread pieces for dipping or with additional crackers or veggies.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Cheese: Feel free to swap out the mozzarella for another cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, to change the flavor profile.
- Add Veggies: Add some finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or celery to the filling mixture for extra flavor and texture.
- Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the seafood filling.
- Crab and Shrimp Combo: If you prefer, use just one type of seafood – either all shrimp or all crab – depending on your taste.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the filled bread bowl in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until the filling is warm again. If the bread is too soft, consider reheating the filling separately and serving it in a new bread bowl.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp and crab meat?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp and crab meat, but be sure to thaw them and drain excess moisture before mixing.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the seafood filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just fill the bread bowl and bake when ready to serve.
Can I make this without seafood?
Yes, you can substitute the seafood with chicken or just a creamy cheese mixture for a vegetarian version.
What type of bread is best for this recipe?
A round loaf of sourdough or French bread works best as it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling but soft enough for dipping.
How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?
Baking the seafood filling inside the bread bowl helps prevent it from getting too soggy. Be sure to serve it soon after baking.
Can I use store-bought bread bowls?
Yes, store-bought bread bowls can save time and effort. Just make sure they’re large enough to hold the seafood mixture.
Can I freeze this dish?
It’s not recommended to freeze the bread bowl once filled, as the bread may become soggy when reheated. You can freeze just the filling and then assemble it when ready to bake.
How can I make the filling lighter?
For a lighter version, substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or use a reduced-fat mayonnaise.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! Add hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to give the seafood filling a spicy kick.
Can I use a different type of seafood?
Yes, you can substitute the shrimp or crab with lobster, scallops, or even canned tuna for a different seafood flavor.
Conclusion
Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is an indulgent and flavorful dish that brings together the deliciousness of shrimp, crab, and melted cheese in a crispy bread shell. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just as a treat, it’s an easy-to-make and crowd-pleasing appetizer. This unique, interactive dish will be a guaranteed hit at your next get-together!
Print
Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is a savory, indulgent appetizer that combines rich crab meat, shrimp, and creamy cheese, all baked in a warm, crispy bread bowl. Perfect for parties or special occasions, this dish is the ultimate comfort food for seafood lovers. With its melt-in-your-mouth filling and golden, crunchy bread, it’s an irresistible treat that’s sure to impress guests and become the star of your appetizer spread.
Ingredients
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ lb lump crab meat
½ lb cooked shrimp (chopped)
½ cup cream cheese (softened)
⅓ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup green onions (finely chopped)
Instructions
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Prepare the Bread Bowl: Choose a round loaf of sourdough or French bread. Cut out the center to create a bowl, leaving a thick border for support. Set aside the hollowed-out bread and reserve the removed bread for dipping later.
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Make the Seafood Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, chopped shrimp, shredded mozzarella, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and chopped green onions. Stir until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
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Fill the Bread Bowl: Spoon the seafood mixture into the hollowed-out bread bowl, packing it tightly.
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Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the filled bread bowl on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is hot and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
-
Serve: Let the bread bowl cool slightly before serving. Offer the reserved bread for dipping, or serve with crackers and veggies.
Notes
Cheese Variations: Swap mozzarella with cheddar or gouda for a richer flavor.
Add Veggies: Include finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or celery for added texture and flavor.
Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the seafood mixture for a spicy kick.
Crab or Shrimp Only: Feel free to use only one type of seafood if preferred.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
