Elevate your dinner table with this Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl—a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe features a warm, crusty bread bowl filled with a creamy, savory seafood medley, creating a dish that’s as stunning as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a cozy family meal, or looking for a unique dish to impress your guests, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver flavor and wow-factor.

Ingredients

For the Bread Bowls:

• 4 small round bread loaves (sourdough or Italian work best)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Seafood Filling:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup celery, finely chopped
• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• ½ pound lump crab meat
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, for garnish

Directions

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 of bread around the edges to form bowls. Save the removed bread for dipping or discard.
   • Brush the insides of the bread bowls with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder.
   • Place the bread bowls on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until slightly crispy. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Seafood Filling
   • In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic, onion, celery, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
   • Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
   • Gradually stir in the heavy cream, ensuring the mixture is smooth and lump-free. Bring to a gentle simmer.
   • Add the Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
   • Add the shrimp and crab meat to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp is pink and cooked through. Stir in the lemon juice.
3. Assemble the Bread Bowls
   • Spoon the seafood mixture evenly into the prepared bread bowls.
   • Sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top and place the bread bowls back in the oven. Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the filling is bubbly and slightly golden.
4. Garnish and Serve
   • Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving:

• Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Serve with the bread tops or extra crusty bread for dipping into the creamy seafood filling.

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.
• Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the creamy filling may separate when thawed.

Variations

1. Lobster Bread Bowl:
   • Replace the shrimp and crab with chunks of cooked lobster for a luxurious twist.
2. Spicy Creole Style:
   • Add diced andouille sausage and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a Creole-inspired version.
3. Cheesy Spinach Seafood Bowl:
   • Stir in ½ cup of cooked spinach and extra cheese for a rich, creamy variation.
4. Vegetarian Option:
   • Substitute the seafood with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and artichoke hearts for a veggie-friendly dish.
5. Lightened-Up Version:
   • Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the Parmesan cheese for a lighter option.

Conclusion

The Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is an irresistible combination of creamy, savory seafood filling and crispy, golden bread. It’s a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and elegant, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. With its customizable variations, you can easily tailor this recipe to suit your taste. One thing is for sure—this bread bowl will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds!

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but add it at the end and heat it just until warmed through to avoid overcooking.

2. Can I make the filling in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare the seafood filling up to a day ahead and reheat before assembling the bread bowls.

3. What type of bread is best?
Sourdough and Italian loaves are ideal because they’re sturdy and flavorful.

4. Can I substitute the heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be slightly less creamy.

5. What can I use instead of crab meat?
Imitation crab works as a budget-friendly substitute, or you can use scallops or more shrimp.

Enjoy creating and serving this show-stopping dish—it’s sure to impress every time! 🦐🍞✨