Ingredients
4 large round bread rolls or sourdough loaves these form the base of your edible bowls
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter for brushing helps achieve that crispy exterior
2 tablespoons unsalted butter adds richness to the base
1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing and enhancing flavors
1 medium onion, finely chopped provides a sweet, aromatic foundation
2 garlic cloves, minced infuses a bold, garlicky depth
1/2 pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped the main seafood star for tender bites
1/2 pound crab meat (lump or claw) brings a delicate, sweet seafood taste
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half creates the creamy sauce
1/2 cup chicken or seafood broth adds moisture and depth
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened ensures a smooth, velvety texture
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese melts for a gooey finish
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese offers a nutty, savory note
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning boosts the seafood flavor
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika optional adds a subtle smokiness if desired
Salt and black pepper to taste for basic seasoning
Instructions
1-First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and get your ingredients ready. Cut the tops off the 4 large round bread rolls or sourdough loaves and hollow out the centers, leaving a thick wall for sturdiness. Brush the insides and outsides with 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter, then bake for 10-15 minutes until they’re golden and crispy. This step sets the base for your dish.
2-Next, heat 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped medium onion until it’s softened, then add the 2 minced garlic cloves and cook until fragrant. Stir in the 1/2 pound peeled, deveined, and chopped shrimp and cook until it’s pink, followed by the 1/2 pound crab meat.
3-Pour in 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half and 1/2 cup chicken or seafood broth, stirring everything together. Add 1/4 cup softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika if you like, and salt and black pepper to taste. Let it simmer until thickened for that perfect consistency.
4-Spoon the seafood filling into the prepared bread bowls, making sure to pack it in nicely. Sprinkle a bit more cheese on top for extra gooeyness. Bake for 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles, creating a beautiful finish.
5-Finally, garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with the bread tops for dipping, along with lemon wedges on the side. The total time is about 1 hour, with 30 minutes for prep and 25 minutes for cooking, making it an efficient recipe for any day.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🥖 Brushing bread bowls inside and out ensures a crispy crust.
🦐 Customize seafood filling with scallops, lobster, or your favorite seafood.
❄️ Refrigerate leftovers and reheat gently in the oven for best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
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- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bread bowl with filling
