Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl

Nothing says comfort food quite like a stuffed seafood bread bowl. Imagine breaking into a warm, crusty loaf brimming with a creamy mixture of tender seafood and vibrant herbs. It’s a dish that not only warms the heart but also brings a bit of elegance to your dinner table. Whether you’re gearing up for a family feast or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests.

This stuffed seafood bread bowl is a unique pairing of flavors and textures, combining a hearty bread shell with a rich seafood filling. It’s perfect for celebrations, game days, or simply as a way to treat yourself. What’s more, it’s versatile. You can adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences and showcase whatever seafood is freshest or most accessible. When I first made this dish for my family, it quickly became a beloved favorite; there’s just something so rewarding about serving it right from the bread bowl.

Ingredients

• 1 large round loaf of sourdough or French bread
• 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped (feel free to substitute with crab or lobster)
• 1 cup imitation crab meat, torn into pieces
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Chives or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will get your kitchen cozy while you prepare the ingredients.

Step 2:

Carefully hollow out the bread loaf, leaving about an inch of bread around the edges. Save the inner bread pieces for serving or as breadcrumbs for another recipe.

Step 3:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, crab meat, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and shredded cheese. Mix until well combined.

Step 4:

Add the dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the seafood mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5:

Spoon the seafood mixture into the hollowed bread bowl, packing it in gently. Place any leftover mixture in a small baking dish.

Step 6:

Bake the stuffed bread bowl and any extra filling for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheesy topping is golden and bubbly.

Step 7:

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley before serving.

Nutritional Information

This stuffed seafood bread bowl serves approximately 6-8 people and is packed with flavors and textures. Each serving contains around 400 calories, but it’s also rich in protein, thanks to the seafood. Pair this dish with a light salad for a balanced meal.

Healthier Alternatives

For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and mayonnaise. You can also swap the cream cheese for a low-fat cream cheese option. Adding more veggies, like spinach or bell peppers, can ramp up the nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your stuffed seafood bread bowl with a fresh green salad or some crispy roasted vegetables on the side. It also pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a refreshing lemonade. Don’t forget to use the leftover bread pieces for dipping.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is overfilling the bread bowl. It’s important to pack the filling gently to ensure it doesn’t spill over when baking. Also, keep an eye on the baking time; every oven cooks a little differently, so check for that golden-brown topping.

Chef’s Notes

• Pro tip: If you want to add a little kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
• For a more substantial version, you can add or substitute cooked lobster or scallops into the filling.
• If you have any leftover seafood filling, try stuffing it inside bell peppers or use it as a topping for baked potatoes.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
  A1: Yes; You can mix the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just fill the bread bowl and bake when you’re ready to serve.
• Q2: Is it possible to freeze the stuffed seafood bread bowl?
  A2: Yes, you can freeze the uncooked bread bowl with filling. Just bake it directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Q3: What other seafood can I use in this recipe?
  A3: You can use any seafood you enjoy. Crab, scallops, or even a medley of your favorites would work beautifully.

If you’re in the mood for more seafood-inspired dishes, be sure to check out my Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe for another delicious option. And for an equally delightful treat, don’t miss my Homemade Crab Cakes Recipe.

This Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is sure to become a staple in your home, bringing warmth and joy to your dining experience. Enjoy every last bite.

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