If you’re looking for a fun and delicious appetizer that will leave your guests coming back for more, this stuffed seafood bread bowl is the perfect choice. Loaded with creamy crab, shrimp, and a blend of cheeses, this dish is served in a hollowed-out sourdough bread bowl, making it a unique and interactive appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or a festive dinner, this indulgent treat is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Bowl
- Hollow out the bread: Using a serrated knife, carefully cut the top off the sourdough bread and hollow out the inside to create a sturdy shell. Set aside the removed bread for dipping later. Keep the bread pieces in bite-sized chunks for easy dipping.
Step 2: Make the Seafood Filling
- Mix the creamy base: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and shredded mozzarella. Stir until smooth and fully blended.
- Season the mixture: Add the green onions, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, and lemon juice. Stir everything together until evenly combined.
- Add the seafood: Gently fold in the chopped shrimp and lump crab meat. Ensure the seafood is evenly distributed throughout the mixture, making sure every bite has a good amount of shrimp and crab.
Step 3: Fill the Bread Bowl
- Stuff the bread bowl: Spoon the prepared seafood mixture into the hollowed-out bread bowl, packing it tightly to ensure it stays in place. Make sure the top is slightly mounded for an extra indulgent look.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Bake the dish: Place the stuffed bread bowl on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly and melted. The cheese should be oozing from the sides, making it irresistible.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: After baking, garnish the stuffed bread bowl with additional chopped green onions for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve: Serve the hot, bubbly seafood bread bowl immediately, accompanied by the reserved bread chunks for dipping. You can also serve with crackers or fresh veggies like celery or carrot sticks for dipping.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh seafood: For the best flavor, opt for fresh cooked shrimp and lump crab meat. If you can’t find lump crab, any canned or frozen crab meat will work well.
- Customization: If you prefer a different cheese, you can substitute cheddar or Parmesan for a different flavor. For extra richness, you can also add a few tablespoons of cream to the filling.
- Serving suggestions: This stuffed bread bowl is perfect for parties or gatherings, but you can also serve it as a fun and indulgent family meal. Pair it with a light salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Simply stuff the bread bowl with the mixture and bake it just before serving.
What other seafood can I use?
Feel free to swap out the shrimp or crab with other seafood like scallops, lobster, or clams. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary depending on the type of seafood you choose.
How do I store leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store the seafood mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The bread bowl itself is best eaten fresh, but you can toast the leftover bread pieces for an additional crispy treat.
Conclusion
This stuffed seafood bread bowl is the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer, combining creamy seafood filling with the rustic flavors of sourdough bread. With its rich, cheesy center and savory shrimp and crab, it’s an indulgent dish that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking to impress your family, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. So, grab your sourdough bread and start stuffing—your taste buds are in for a treat!