Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl
A Creamy, Cheesy Seafood Delight Baked in a Golden Sourdough Bowl
This Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is an irresistible, crowd-pleasing dish packed with creamy cheese, succulent shrimp, and sweet lump crab meat. Baked to perfection inside a crusty sourdough bread bowl, this dish is ideal as a shareable appetizer or a cozy main course. It’s rich, flavorful, and a guaranteed showstopper at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 large sourdough bread bowl
- 1/2 pound cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1/2 pound 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 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread Bowl
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the top off the bread bowl and hollow out the center, leaving a 1-inch border. Reserve the top and inner bread pieces for serving.
- Place the prepared bread bowl on a baking sheet and set aside.
2. Mix the Seafood Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped shrimp, crab meat, mozzarella, cream cheese, mayo, green onions, garlic, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, and lemon juice.
- Stir until smooth and well blended.
3. Stuff the Bread Bowl
- Spoon the seafood mixture into the hollowed bread bowl, gently pressing to fill all gaps evenly.
4. Bake
- Cover the bowl loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the filling is hot and bubbly.
- Remove the foil in the last 5 minutes of baking for a beautifully golden top.
5. Serve
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- If desired, place the reserved bread top back on for a charming presentation.
- Serve warm with the bread pieces or sliced fresh vegetables for dipping.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy seafood bread bowl pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, steamed asparagus, or raw veggie sticks like cucumbers, bell peppers, and celery. For a heartier meal, serve it with garlic-roasted potatoes or extra crusty baguette slices.
Tips & Variations
- Add spice: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a kick.
- Extra cheesy: Top with grated Parmesan before the final bake.
- Seafood swap: Substitute the shrimp with cooked scallops or flaked white fish for a twist.
Nutritional Notes
Though indulgent, this dish provides high-quality protein from the shrimp and crab. The garlic and green onions offer a flavorful dose of antioxidants, while the lemon juice brings brightness and a touch of vitamin C. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Why You’ll Love It
- Creamy, cheesy, and savory
- Easy to prepare but restaurant-worthy
- Perfect for parties, holidays, or seafood lovers
- Baked right into the bread – no dishes needed!