Here’s a rich, creamy, restaurant-style Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl recipe that’s perfect for impressing guests — or just treating yourself. Think of a crusty sourdough bread bowl overflowing with a decadent seafood chowder-meets-creamy dip.
BEST Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl
Ingredients:
For the seafood filling:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
- 1/2 cup seafood or chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp cayenne or hot sauce (optional)
- 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1/2 cup lump crab meat (drained)
- 1/2 cup cooked scallops or fish, flaked
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley or green onions
For the bread bowl:
- 1 large round sourdough loaf or boule
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: 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 thick walls.
- Brush the inside with melted butter or oil.
- Place on a baking tray and bake for 8–10 minutes to toast slightly. This helps prevent sogginess.
Step 2: Make the seafood filling
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic, onion, bell pepper, and celery until soft (about 4–5 mins).
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in cream and broth. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Season with Old Bay, salt, pepper, and cayenne or hot sauce if desired.
- Stir in shrimp, crab, and scallops or fish. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until heated through.
- Add cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- Remove from heat and stir in parsley or green onions.
Step 3: Fill and finish
- Spoon the hot seafood filling into the toasted bread bowl.
- Optional: Sprinkle extra cheese on top and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations:
- Use lobster chunks for a luxury upgrade.
- Add a splash of white wine with the cream for added depth.
- Serve with the hollowed-out bread pieces for dipping!