Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stuffed seafood bread bowl combines the best of both worlds: a crispy, hollowed-out sourdough bowl filled with a creamy, flavorful seafood mixture. The rich and savory filling made with shrimp, crab, and creamy cheeses complements the tangy sourdough perfectly. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that looks elegant and is ideal for entertaining or cozy family meals.

Ingredients

• 1 large sourdough bread bowl
• 1/2 lb cooked shrimp, chopped
• 1/2 lb lump crab meat
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prep the Bread: Hollow out the sourdough bread bowl, leaving a sturdy shell. Set aside the removed bread for dipping.
2. Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, mayonnaise, mozzarella, green onions, garlic, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Add Seafood: Gently fold in the shrimp and crab meat, mixing until evenly distributed.
4. Fill the Bread Bowl: Spoon the seafood mixture into the hollowed-out bread bowl, packing it evenly.
5. Bake: Place the filled bread bowl on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and bubbling.
6. Serve: Garnish with extra green onions and serve warm with chunks of the removed bread or crackers for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4-6 people.
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Variety: You can use different types of cheese such as cheddar, gouda, or parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the seafood with a combination of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and artichokes for a delicious vegetarian filling.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store the seafood mixture separately in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. The bread bowl is best served fresh.
• Reheating: Reheat the seafood mixture in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, and serve in a new bread bowl if necessary.

FAQs

Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, frozen shrimp and crab meat can be used. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before incorporating them into the filling.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge. Fill the bread bowl and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of bread?

You can substitute sourdough with other hearty breads, such as a round boule or even a baguette, but sourdough provides a great tangy contrast to the creamy filling.

How do I store the leftover bread bowl?

The bread bowl will soften quickly after baking, so it’s best served immediately. Store the seafood filling in the fridge for up to 2 days, but the bread bowl should be discarded if not consumed right away.

Can I bake this in a casserole dish instead of a bread bowl?

Yes, you can bake the seafood mixture in a greased casserole dish if you prefer not to use a bread bowl.

Conclusion

The Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is an irresistible and fun dish that combines rich seafood with a creamy, cheesy filling all wrapped up in a flavorful bread bowl. Perfect for entertaining or serving as a special appetizer, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Try it out for your next gathering and watch it disappear in minutes!