The aroma of freshly baked bread mingling with the scent of seasoned seafood creates an irresistible allure. Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, crusty shell filled with creamy seafood goodness that dances on your taste buds.
As I recall my first attempt at crafting a stuffed seafood bread bowl, I can still hear the cheers from my family as they dug in. This dish is perfect for cozy evenings or lively get-togethers with friends when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This stuffed seafood bread bowl is surprisingly easy to prepare while offering incredible flavor
- It looks impressive enough for any gathering, ensuring you’ll be the star of the table
- The combination of textures is delightful, from the flaky seafood filling to the crusty bread exterior
- You can easily adapt it to use whatever ingredients you have on hand for added versatility
I remember the day I made this dish; my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Round Bread Loaf: A hearty sourdough or Italian loaf works best; it holds up well against the stuffing.
- Fresh Shrimp: Use peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience; they add a sweet and savory flavor.
- Crab Meat: Canned or fresh crab meat adds a rich depth; make sure it’s high quality for better taste.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese creates a creamy base that binds everything together beautifully.
- Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a fresh bite; their mild flavor complements the richness of the filling.
- Garlic Powder: This seasoning intensifies flavor; it’s easier than chopping garlic and gives great results.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish; it enhances all those delectable flavors.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a melty richness; you can substitute it with your favorite cheese if desired.
- Parsley Flakes: Dried parsley adds color and subtle flavor; fresh parsley works too if you’ve got some on hand.
- Paprika: A sprinkle of paprika gives a hint of smokiness and color; smoked paprika can elevate it even more.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while preparing your ingredients to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Prepare Your Bread Bowl: Carefully slice off the top of your round loaf and hollow out the inside using a sharp knife. Set aside the removed bread for later use.
Mix The Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped shrimp, crab meat, softened cream cheese, green onions, garlic powder, lemon juice, shredded cheddar cheese, parsley flakes, and paprika. Stir until fully mixed.
Fill The Bread Bowl: Spoon the creamy seafood mixture into your hollowed-out loaf until overflowing slightly. Don’t worry if some spills over; that just means extra deliciousness!
Bake It Up: Place your filled bread bowl on a baking sheet and pop it in the oven for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbling with cheesy goodness.
Serve And Enjoy: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before slicing into wedges. Serve warm so everyone can enjoy their cheesy seafood goodness!
With each step you take towards making this delightful stuffed seafood bread bowl, you’re not just creating a dish but crafting memories that will linger long after it’s gone!
You Must Know
- Stuffed seafood bread bowls are a delightful combination of textures and flavors, perfect for impressing guests
- The warm, crusty bread filled with savory seafood is not only satisfying but also visually stunning
- Each bite bursts with freshness and comfort, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the seafood filling while the bread bakes to save time and ensure everything is hot. Sauté the seafood until just cooked, then blend in your favorite seasonings before stuffing the bread.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out seafood for your favorites, like shrimp or crab, or add spices to customize the flavor. Fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese can elevate this dish even further.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed seafood bread bowl in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a preheated oven until warmed through for the best texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use day-old bread for sturdiness; it holds up better against moisture from the filling
- Always taste your seafood mixture before stuffing to adjust seasonings
- A drizzle of lemon juice adds brightness that really enhances flavors
Sharing this dish brings back memories of hosting friends who couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was, giving me confidence in my cooking skills!
FAQ
What kind of bread works best for stuffed seafood bread bowls?
Sourdough or crusty artisan bread works best for holding the filling without getting soggy.
Can I make stuffed seafood bread bowls ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the filling and stuff the bread a few hours before baking for convenience.
What types of seafood can I use in this recipe?
You can use shrimp, crab, scallops, or even fish based on your preference and availability.
Print
Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Delight in the flavors of a Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl, where creamy seafood filling meets warm, crusty bread. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home!
Ingredients
- 1 round sourdough or Italian bread loaf
- 1 cup fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup crab meat (canned or fresh)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp parsley flakes
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice off the top of the bread loaf and hollow out the inside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shrimp, crab meat, cream cheese, green onions, garlic powder, lemon juice, cheddar cheese, parsley flakes, and paprika. Mix well.
- Fill the hollowed-out bread with the seafood mixture.
- Bake on a baking sheet for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for better structure.
- Feel free to customize with different seafood or spices.
- To enhance flavor, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or extra cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
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