Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl

Name: Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 1 large sourdough bread bowl; ½ pound cooked shrimp, chopped; ½ pound lump crab meat; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup cream cheese, softened; ⅓ cup mayonnaise; ¼ cup green onions, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Published: June 2, 2025

by Sofia

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A Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is the ultimate comfort food that brings a touch of elegance to any gathering. This delicious bread bowl, filled with creamy shrimp and crab meat, is perfect for sharing at parties or cozy family dinners. Its standout feature is the combination of flavors and textures, with a crispy exterior and a warm, cheesy interior. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for both novice and experienced cooks.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress your guests with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation.
Easy to Make: With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can whip this up quickly for last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetizer or a main dish; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
Creamy Delight: The mix of cream cheese and mozzarella creates a luscious filling that pairs perfectly with the fresh seafood.
Perfect for Dipping: The hollowed-out bread bowl allows for easy dipping, making it a fun interactive experience.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment helps streamline the process and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Knife
Spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining all ingredients without spilling.
Baking sheet: Ensures even baking while preventing any potential mess in your oven.
Knife: Essential for chopping ingredients like green onions and seafood efficiently.

Ingredients

A sourdough bread bowl filled with creamy shrimp and crab mixture, topped with melty cheese. Easy to make and perfect for sharing.

1 large sourdough bread bowl
½ pound cooked shrimp, chopped
½ pound lump crab meat
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup cream cheese, softened
⅓ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup green onions, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon lemon juice

How to Make Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. While it’s heating up, hollow out the sourdough bread bowl by carefully removing some of the inner bread without breaking through the crust. Save this removed bread for dipping later.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped green onions, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, and lemon juice.
2. Mix until smooth and well blended.

Step 3: Add Seafood

Gently fold in the chopped shrimp and lump crab meat into the cheese mixture until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Fill the Bread Bowl

Spoon the creamy seafood mixture into the hollowed-out sourdough bread bowl. Pack it evenly to ensure every bite has a delightful filling.

Step 5: Bake

Place your filled bread bowl on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 6: Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven. Garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired. Serve warm alongside pieces of removed bread for dipping.

Enjoy your Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl as an appetizer or a main dish that everyone will love!

How to Serve Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl

Serving a Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is a delightful experience that brings everyone together. This dish not only looks impressive but also offers a rich flavor that appeals to seafood lovers. Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Salad

A crisp green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the seafood filling. The freshness balances the meal.

Serve with Vegetable Platter

A colorful platter of fresh veggies adds crunch and nutrition. Carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers are excellent choices for dipping.

Accompany with Wine

A chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the flavors of the seafood while providing a refreshing contrast.

Include Cocktail Sauce

A side of zesty cocktail sauce can add an extra kick. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit more tanginess with their seafood.

Add Chips for Crunch

Tortilla or pita chips provide a crunchy texture. Guests can scoop up the delicious filling or enjoy them on their own.

Garnish with Extra Green Onions

Finishing touches of chopped green onions not only enhance presentation but also add a fresh burst of flavor to every bite.

How to Perfect Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl

Creating the perfect Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully every time.

Choose Quality Seafood: Use fresh shrimp and crab meat for the best flavor. Frozen options can work, but ensure they are properly thawed and drained.
Properly Hollow Out Bread: Take care when hollowing out the sourdough bowl. Ensure you leave enough bread around the edges for structure while creating ample space for stuffing.
Mix Ingredients Gently: When combining seafood with creamy fillings, fold gently to avoid breaking apart the shrimp and crab pieces.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bread bowl while baking. Remove it when it’s bubbly and golden brown to prevent overcooking.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl

Pairing your Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl with complementary side dishes makes for a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic breadsticks or slices are perfect for dipping into leftover creamy filling.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and contrasts beautifully with the creamy seafood.
Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide a hearty option that pairs well with seafood flavors.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate, offering refreshing sweetness after rich bites.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender roasted asparagus spears add elegance and a healthy touch to your meal.
Caesar Salad: The classic Caesar salad brings its bold flavors that complement seafood nicely.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob adds a fun element while being easy to prepare alongside your main dish.
Stuffed Mushrooms: For an extra touch of indulgence, serve baked stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs alongside your bread bowl.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl can be easy, but avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the bread hollowing step: Hollowing out the bread bowl is crucial. It creates space for the filling and prevents sogginess.
Not using room temperature cream cheese: Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps in your mixture. Always soften it for a smooth consistency.
Overfilling the bread bowl: While it may be tempting to pack it full, overstuffing can cause it to overflow during baking. Fill just to the rim for the best results.
Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Tastes vary, so be sure to taste and adjust seasonings before baking. This ensures every bite is flavorful.
Forgetting to save removed bread: The bread you remove while hollowing is perfect for dipping. Don’t discard it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Use within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts (30 seconds) until hot.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about the Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl.

Can I use different types of seafood?

Yes! Feel free to mix and match with your favorite seafood like scallops or lobster for a unique flavor.

How do I make this dish spicy?

Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the seafood mixture for an extra kick.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day ahead and fill the bread bowl right before baking.

What can I serve with a Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or crispy vegetable sticks for dipping.

Final Thoughts

The Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is not only delicious but also versatile. Its creamy shrimp and crab filling make it a delightful centerpiece at any gathering. Customize it with your favorite seafood or spices, and enjoy this comforting dish that’s perfect for sharing!