Introduction
The Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is a delicious and hearty dish that combines creamy, savory seafood with a warm, crusty bread bowl. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner, a gathering with friends, or when you want to impress your guests with a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy seafood filling packed with shrimp, crab, and scallops.
- Crispy bread bowl that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- Perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a casual meal or a fancy dinner.
- Customizable – You can add your favorite seafood or even swap in different types of bread.
Ingredients
For the Bread Bowl:
- 4 round sourdough bread loaves
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
For the Seafood Filling:
- 8 oz (225g) shrimp, peeled and chopped
- 6 oz (170g) crab meat
- 4 oz (115g) scallops, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ½ cup chicken or seafood broth
Garnish (optional):
- Chopped green onions
- Extra cheese
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice
Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread Bowls
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut off the top of each sourdough loaf and remove some of the inside bread to create a hollow bowl.
- Mix melted butter with minced garlic and brush the inside of the bread bowls.
- Place the bread bowls on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 10 minutes until slightly crispy. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Seafood Filling
- In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the shrimp, crab, and scallops, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the seafood is slightly opaque.
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to coat the seafood.
- Slowly pour in the broth, followed by the heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously.
- Add Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes until it thickens.
- Stir in the shredded cheese and fresh parsley, mixing until melted and smooth.
3. Assemble the Bread Bowls
- Spoon the creamy seafood filling into the toasted bread bowls.
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top, if desired.
- Return to the oven and bake for 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and a squeeze of lemon juice.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve warm, with extra bread or a side salad.
- Enjoy the crispy bread with the creamy seafood goodness!
Tips for the Best Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl
- Use fresh seafood for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the seafood to keep it tender and juicy.
- Make it spicier by adding a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- For a thicker filling, add an extra tablespoon of flour.
Variations
1. Lobster Stuffed Bread Bowl
Swap out the shrimp and crab for chunks of lobster meat for a luxurious twist.
2. Cajun Seafood Bread Bowl
Add Cajun seasoning and diced bell peppers for a Southern-style flavor.
3. Cheesy Bacon Seafood Bowl
Stir in crispy bacon bits and extra cheese for a richer taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought bread bowls?
Yes! Many bakeries sell pre-made bread bowls that work great for this recipe.
2. Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the filling and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.
3. What can I serve with this dish?
A fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a light soup pairs perfectly.
Conclusion
The Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy a warm, creamy seafood delight!
