Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl – A Creamy, Cheesy Delight

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Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl – A Creamy, Cheesy Delight

This Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is the ultimate appetizer or indulgent meal, packed with lump crab meat, shrimp, creamy cheese, and bold seasonings. Baked until golden and bubbling, this dish is perfect for sharing at gatherings, game nights, or special occasions. The crispy sourdough bread contrasts beautifully with the rich, savory filling, making every bite irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and Flavorful – A perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and seafood flavors.
  • Easy to Make – Simple preparation with minimal ingredients.
  • Great for Sharing – Ideal for parties, holidays, or a cozy dinner.
  • Versatile – Serve as an appetizer or a hearty main course.

Ingredients

Seafood Filling

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for gooey, melted goodness)
  • ½ lb lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)
  • ½ lb cooked shrimp, chopped (peeled and deveined)
  • ½ cup cream cheese, softened (for a rich and creamy texture)
  • ⅓ cup mayonnaise (adds extra creaminess and flavor)

Seasonings & Aromatics

  • ¼ cup green onions, finely chopped (adds a fresh, mild onion flavor)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced (for depth and aroma)
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (enhances the seafood flavors)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a subtle smoky kick)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (balances flavors with a bright citrus touch)

Bread Bowl

  • 1 large sourdough bread bowl (crusty on the outside, soft on the inside)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Bowl

  1. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a circle on top of the sourdough bread.
  2. Hollow out the inside, leaving a thick, sturdy shell to hold the filling.
  3. Set aside the removed bread chunks for dipping later.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and mayonnaise, stirring until smooth.
  2. Add shredded mozzarella cheese, green onions, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, and lemon juice. Mix well.
  3. Gently fold in the chopped shrimp and lump crab meat, being careful not to overmix and break the seafood apart.

Step 3: Assemble the Bread Bowl

  1. Spoon the seafood mixture into the hollowed-out bread bowl, spreading it evenly.
  2. Press down lightly to ensure all the flavors blend together perfectly.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place the stuffed bread bowl on a baking sheet.
  3. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

  1. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
  2. Garnish with extra chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
  3. Serve warm with the reserved bread chunks, crackers, or toasted baguette slices for dipping.

Tips for the Best Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl

  • Use Fresh Seafood – Fresh lump crab meat and shrimp give the best flavor.
  • Toast the Bread Bowl – For an extra crispy crust, brush the bread with a little olive oil before baking.
  • Add Extra Cheese – Sprinkle Parmesan or more mozzarella on top before baking for a cheesy crust.
  • Make It Spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a kick.

Serving Ideas

This stuffed seafood bread bowl pairs beautifully with:

  • A crisp garden salad for a fresh contrast.
  • A bowl of seafood chowder for a hearty meal.
  • A glass of white wine or lemonade to complement the seafood flavors.

Storage & Reheating

  • To store: Wrap leftovers in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
  • To reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until warm. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~350
  • Protein: ~20g
  • Carbohydrates: ~30g
  • Fat: ~18g

This Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory seafood flavors baked inside a crusty loaf of sourdough. Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself to a special meal, this dish is sure to impress!

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