Name: Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large round bread loaf (sourdough or French boule); 1/2 lb cooked shrimp, chopped; 1/2 lb lump crab meat; 1/2 lb scallops or white fish (optional); 2 tbsp butter; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup celery, chopped; 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced (optional); 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning or Cajun seasoning; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish

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The Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is a show-stopping dish that brings the best of comfort food and coastal cuisine together in one irresistible package. Imagine a crusty bread bowl overflowing with a rich, creamy seafood filling—plump shrimp, sweet crab meat, maybe a few scallops—all baked together in a velvety, cheesy sauce. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make at home.

Perfect for a cozy dinner, a brunch centerpiece, or a game day treat, this dish is as versatile as it is impressive. The bread bowl not only acts as a unique serving vessel but also soaks up all the saucy goodness, creating a dish where nothing goes to waste. Whether you’re a seafood lover looking for a new way to enjoy your favorites, or just craving something warm and comforting, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.

Pull up a chair, grab a spoon (or just tear into it with your hands), and get ready for the ultimate comfort meal by the sea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comfort Food at Its Best – Warm, creamy, and packed with seafood in a toasty bread bowl.
Crowd-Pleaser – Great for entertaining, brunch, or as a party centerpiece.
All-in-One Meal – No sides needed—it’s hearty, filling, and satisfying on its own.
Easy to Customize – Use your favorite seafood or cheeses to suit your tastes.
Impressively Simple – Looks fancy but is actually quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Round bread loaf (like sourdough or French boule)
Cooked shrimp
Lump crab meat
Scallops or white fish (optional)
Butter
Garlic
Onion
Celery
Bell pepper (optional)
Cream cheese
Heavy cream or half-and-half
Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
Old Bay seasoning or Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)

Variations

Spicy Cajun Version

Add more Cajun seasoning and a dash of hot sauce for a fiery Southern-style kick.

Loaded Veggie

Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or corn to the filling for more texture and nutrients.

Gluten-Free

Serve the filling in a gluten-free bread bowl or pour over baked potatoes or rice.

Lighter Version

Use light cream cheese and milk instead of heavy cream for a slightly lighter dish.

Deluxe Seafood

Include lobster, crawfish, or even clams for a luxurious twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Bowl

Slice the top off your bread loaf and hollow out the center, leaving a thick shell. Set aside the removed bread for dipping.

Step 2: Sauté the Base

Melt butter in a skillet. Add diced onions, garlic, celery, and bell pepper. Cook until soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Filling

Add cream cheese and stir until melted. Slowly mix in cream and shredded cheese until smooth. Season with Old Bay, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Add the Seafood

Fold in shrimp, crab meat, and any other seafood you’re using. Simmer for a few minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

Pour the seafood mixture into the bread bowl. Sprinkle extra cheese on top if desired.

Step 6: Bake

Place the filled bread bowl on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with parsley or green onions. Serve with the reserved bread cubes, crackers, or a side salad.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Fresh or Frozen Seafood – Both work, just make sure everything is fully cooked before baking.
Don’t Overcook Seafood – Add seafood last to prevent rubbery texture.
Scoop the Bread Bowl Gently – Leave enough wall thickness so it doesn’t leak.
Double the Filling – Great for serving extra as dip with chips or crostini.
Prep in Advance – Make the filling ahead and bake when ready to serve.

How to Serve

Serve hot and bubbly straight from the oven.
Add extra bread, crostini, or crackers for dipping.
Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.
Make mini versions in small dinner rolls for parties.
Serve with a white wine or light beer for perfect pairing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Bread bowl is best enjoyed fresh.

Freezing

The filling can be frozen without the bread bowl. Thaw and reheat on the stovetop, then bake fresh in a new loaf.

Reheating

Reheat filling on the stovetop or in the microwave. If using leftover bread bowl, wrap in foil and heat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned crab meat?

Yes, just be sure to drain it well and check for shells.

2. What type of bread works best?

Sourdough, French boule, or any sturdy round loaf with a thick crust is ideal.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the filling in advance and assemble just before baking.

4. How do I prevent the bread bowl from getting soggy?

Bake the empty bowl for 5 minutes before filling to help crisp it up.

5. Can I serve this without a bread bowl?

Absolutely. Serve the filling in a baking dish with crackers, bread, or veggies on the side.

6. What cheese is best for this recipe?

A blend of cheddar and mozzarella works well, but you can use Gruyère, fontina, or even pepper jack.

7. How spicy is this dish?

It depends on your seasoning. Add hot sauce or cayenne to increase heat, or keep it mild.

8. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based butter, cream, and cheese alternatives. Choose seafood with mild flavor to balance richness.

9. How do I scale the recipe?

Double or triple the filling for larger loaves or party servings. Bake in a casserole dish for crowd-friendly dips.

10. What’s the best seafood combo for flavor?

Shrimp and crab are classic, but scallops and lobster add elegance and depth.

Conclusion

This Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is everything you want in a cozy, comforting seafood dish—creamy, cheesy, hearty, and bursting with ocean flavor. It’s an easy-to-make recipe with a big wow factor, ideal for special gatherings or indulgent family dinners. Whether you serve it as a centerpiece or a decadent appetizer, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and second helpings. One bite, and you’ll see why this one’s a keeper.