Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl Recipe is one of those dishes that brings joy to my kitchen. I remember the first time I made it for my family. The aroma filled the house, and everyone gathered around the table, eager to dig in. It’s a delightful combination of fresh seafood, creamy filling, and a crusty bread bowl that makes every bite a true delight.
Ingredients for Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl
Servings: 6 servings
Seafood Filling Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup crab meat, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup scallops, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Bread Bowl Ingredients:
- 2 large round loaves of bread (sourdough or French)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
How to Make Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl
The first step in this recipe is preparing the seafood filling. I like to start by sautéing the shrimp and scallops in a bit of olive oil. This brings out their flavors and makes them tender.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp and scallops, cooking until they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove from heat and let them cool slightly before chopping them into smaller pieces.
Now, in a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and mozzarella cheese. This creamy mixture is the heart of the dish.
- Fold in the crab meat, cooked shrimp, scallops, green onions, garlic, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until everything is well combined and set aside.
Preparing the Bread Bowls
Next, I turn my attention to the bread bowls. This is where the magic happens.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Take the round loaves of bread and carefully cut off the tops. Set the tops aside to use later.
- Hollow out the insides of the bread, leaving about an inch of bread on the sides and bottom. This creates a sturdy bowl for the filling.
Once the bowls are ready, brush the insides with melted butter. I sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning inside for an extra kick of flavor.
- Place the bread bowls on a baking sheet and bake them for about 10 minutes until they are slightly toasted.
Stuffing the Seafood Filling
Now comes the fun part—stuffing the bread bowls with the seafood mixture.
- Take the prepared filling and generously spoon it into each hollowed bread bowl.
- Pack it in well, ensuring that every bite will be filled with delicious seafood.
After stuffing, place the tops back on the bread bowls. This helps keep the filling moist while baking.
Baking the Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowls
Baking the stuffed seafood bread bowls is where everything comes together.
- Return the filled bread bowls to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes.
- The tops should be golden brown, and the filling should be hot and bubbly.
The aroma wafting through the kitchen is simply irresistible. I always find myself sneaking a taste before serving.
Serving the Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowls
Once the bread bowls are done baking, it’s time to serve them up.
- Carefully remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Serve the stuffed seafood bread bowls with the tops on or off, depending on your preference.
I love to add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Pairing Suggestions
Stuffed seafood bread bowls are rich and flavorful, so they pair well with lighter sides. Here are some ideas:
- A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette
- Steamed asparagus or green beans
- A bowl of clam chowder for a seafood-themed meal
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is easy.
- Place any uneaten stuffed bread bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 2-3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This helps maintain the bread’s texture.
Tips for Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl
Here are some tips to make your stuffed seafood bread bowls even better:
- Use a mix of seafood for varied flavors and textures. Shrimp, crab, and scallops work wonderfully together.
- Don’t skip the seasoning. Old Bay seasoning adds a classic seafood flavor that is hard to beat.
- Adjust the creaminess. If you prefer a lighter filling, you can reduce the amount of mayonnaise or sour cream.
Why I Love Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl
This Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl Recipe holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of family gatherings and special occasions. The presentation is impressive, and the taste is even better. Every bite is a burst of flavor, and the bread bowl is perfect for scooping up the filling.
If you are looking for a dish that impresses and delights, give this Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl Recipe a try. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing. I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine.