Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl 🦀🍤🥖✨

“A Decadent, Flavorful Dish Perfect for Any Occasion!”

This Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl combines a rich, creamy seafood filling with a crispy, golden bread bowl. Loaded with shrimp, crab, and a blend of cheeses, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that works as a show-stopping appetizer or a luxurious main course.

Ingredients

For the Bread Bowls:

• 4 large round bread rolls or sourdough loaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)

For the Seafood Filling:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• 1/2 lb crab meat (lump or claw)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1/2 cup chicken or seafood broth
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or any seafood seasoning)
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges

How to Make Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Bowls

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bread rolls or loaves and hollow out the centers, leaving a thick wall to hold the filling. Set the removed bread aside for dipping or croutons.
3. Brush the inside and outside of the bread bowls with olive oil or melted butter.
4. Bake the bread bowls on a baking sheet for 10–15 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 2: Make the Seafood Filling

1. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and sauté for 3–5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes until pink and opaque. Stir in the crab meat and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, stirring until melted and creamy.
6. Season with Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Bread Bowls

1. Spoon the seafood mixture into the prepared bread bowls.
2. Sprinkle additional mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top for a cheesy crust, if desired.
3. Return the filled bread bowls to the oven and bake for 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with the bread tops or crusty bread for dipping. Add lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, tangy twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Decadent: A creamy, cheesy seafood filling that feels like a special treat.
• Versatile: Works as an appetizer, main dish, or party centerpiece.
• Easy to Customize: Add scallops, lobster, or your favorite seafood for variety.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Keep the Bread Sturdy: Don’t hollow the bread too thin; it needs to hold the filling without collapsing.
2. Use Fresh Seafood: Fresh shrimp and crab elevate the flavor and texture.
3. Reheat Gently: If making ahead, reheat the filling over low heat to maintain creaminess.

This Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is a show-stopping dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply when you want to treat yourself! 🦀🍤🥖✨ Enjoy!