Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl combines a variety of seafood, creamy cheeses, and savory seasonings all nestled inside a warm, toasty bread bowl. It’s a fun, hands-on dish that’s easy to share and sure to impress your guests. The combination of shrimp, scallops, and crab in a velvety sauce is rich and satisfying, while the crispy edges of the bread add a delightful texture. It’s perfect for casual parties, special occasions, or just when you want something indulgent and comforting.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 large crusty bread bowl (sourdough or artisan round)
1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup crab meat
1/2 cup scallops

Sauce Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 shallot, finely chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 ounces cream cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

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

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

2. Cut the top off the bread bowl and hollow out the center, leaving a thick crust around the edges. Place the hollowed-out bread in the oven and toast for 8–10 minutes until golden and crisp.

3. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and shallots, sautéing until fragrant and tender.

4. Add shrimp and scallops to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes until just opaque. Stir in crab meat and cook for an additional minute.

5. Reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Add cream cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and the cream cheese is fully incorporated.

6. Stir in half of the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.

7. Spoon the seafood mixture into the toasted bread bowl, ensuring it’s filled generously.

8. Top the seafood mixture with the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses.

9. Return the filled bread bowl to the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

10. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation time: 15 minutes

• Cooking time: 25 minutes

• Overall time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seafood mixture while cooking.

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the seafood for a combination of sautéed mushrooms and artichoke hearts for a vegetarian-friendly version.

• Cheese Twist: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, cheddar, or even a tangy goat cheese for a unique flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the filled bread bowl in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly again.

FAQs

How do I make sure the bread bowl stays crunchy?

To keep the bread bowl crispy, make sure to toast it before filling it with the seafood mixture. This will help create a barrier and prevent the bread from becoming soggy.

Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen seafood. Just be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before cooking to avoid a watery filling.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Yes, the seafood filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just assemble and bake when ready to serve.

Can I make this recipe without a bread bowl?

If you don’t have a bread bowl, you can serve the seafood mixture in individual ramekins or a casserole dish. Just top with the same cheese and bake until bubbly.

Is there a non-dairy version of this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives, such as coconut milk and cashew cream, and use dairy-free cheese.

How can I make the seafood filling thicker?

If the seafood filling is too runny, you can add a little cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce, or cook the mixture a little longer to reduce the liquid.

What kind of bread is best for the bread bowl?

A large sourdough or artisan round bread works best for this recipe due to its sturdy crust and chewy interior. You can also use any crusty, round bread of your choice.

Can I use different seafood in this recipe?

Feel free to swap the shrimp, crab, and scallops for other types of seafood, such as lobster, clams, or even fish fillets, depending on your preference.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free bread bowl or serve the seafood mixture in a gluten-free option like rice or gluten-free crackers.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add more heat, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or even diced jalapeños into the seafood mixture while cooking.

Conclusion

This Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is the ultimate comfort food that combines savory seafood, creamy cheese, and the warm, crunchy goodness of toasted bread. It’s a fun and shareable dish perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy family meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a show-stopping dish that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures of this seafood delight!