Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl: Creamy, Savory, and Perfectly Baked Comfort Food
Introduction
Looking to impress at your next dinner party or craving a restaurant-style dish at home? This Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is the ultimate indulgence. Overflowing with creamy, cheesy seafood filling and baked in a crusty artisan bread bowl, this recipe is a seafood lover’s dream. Ideal for search terms like “easy seafood appetizer,” “bread bowl seafood dip,” or “creamy seafood bake in bread.”
Origin and Cultural Significance
Stuffed bread bowls have long been a staple in American comfort cuisine, with roots in the iconic clam chowder-in-a-bread-bowl dishes from San Francisco. This recipe builds on that legacy, combining creamy seafood medley with the hearty texture of baked bread, creating a rich dish that’s both rustic and gourmet. It’s a hit at gatherings, game days, or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
For the Bread Bowl:
– 1 large round artisan loaf (sourdough or French boule)
– Olive oil for brushing
– Garlic powder or Italian seasoning (optional)
For the Seafood Filling:
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– ½ cup celery, diced
– ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
– ½ lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
– ½ cup crab meat (fresh or canned)
– ½ cup cooked scallops or firm white fish (optional)
– 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 oz cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup sour cream
– ½ cup shredded mozzarella
– ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
– Juice of half a lemon
Optional Additions
– A dash of hot sauce or Cajun seasoning for heat
– Chopped spinach or artichoke hearts for extra veggies
– Replace some cheese with Parmesan for a salty depth
– Add breadcrumbs on top for a golden, crunchy finish
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread Bowl: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the top off the bread loaf and hollow out the center, leaving about 1 inch of crust. Lightly brush the inside with olive oil and sprinkle garlic powder or Italian seasoning. Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly crisped.
- Sauté Veggies and Seafood: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic, onion, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until softened. Add shrimp, crab, and any other seafood you’re using. Season with Old Bay, salt, and pepper. Cook until seafood is opaque and cooked through.
- Create the Filling: Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese until melted, then add sour cream, mozzarella, cheddar, parsley, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble and Bake: Spoon the filling into the pre-toasted bread bowl. Sprinkle extra cheese or breadcrumbs on top if desired. Bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes until hot and bubbling.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with bread chunks, crackers, or veggies for dipping—or simply tear pieces off the bowl as you enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 6 Servings)
Calories: ~420
Protein: ~22g
Fat: ~28g
Carbohydrates: ~20g
Sugar: ~3g
Fiber: ~2g
Sodium: ~690mg
Cholesterol: ~130mg
Healthy Information & Benefits
– Packed with lean protein from shrimp and crab
– Contains antioxidant-rich vegetables like bell pepper and onion
– Choose whole grain or sourdough bread for a fiber boost
– Option to lighten with low-fat sour cream and Greek yogurt
– Rich in omega-3 fatty acids when using crab or scallops
Tips for Success
– Don’t overcook the seafood—it finishes baking in the oven.
– Toast the bread bowl before filling to avoid sogginess.
– Adjust thickness with extra sour cream or cheese.
– Use quality seafood for best flavor and texture.
– Make ahead: prepare filling up to 2 days early and reheat before baking.
Conclusion
This Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl delivers bold flavor, creamy texture, and serious comfort—all in an edible vessel. Whether for entertaining or treating yourself, it’s an unforgettable dish with a gourmet touch and down-home feel.
Recommendation
Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling lemonade. Serve alongside a green salad with lemon vinaigrette for balance. Perfect for holidays, game nights, or a weekend indulgence.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This dish is a perfect example of mindful indulgence—full of nourishing seafood and satisfying ingredients that feel like a treat. By using real, whole foods and simple cooking methods, this bread bowl recipe brings joy to the table without compromising your clean-eating goals.