Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers

Introduction

Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers are the perfect way to elevate any meal with a touch of elegance. These vibrant, colorful peppers are stuffed with a delicious blend of succulent crab, tender shrimp, and a medley of fresh herbs and spices. Baked to perfection, they create a mouthwatering combination that will have everyone at the table reaching for seconds. The natural sweetness of the peppers pairs beautifully with the savory, seafood-stuffed filling, making every bite a delightful experience.

I love making this dish when I want to impress my guests without spending all day in the kitchen. It’s one of those recipes that feels special but is surprisingly easy to put together. I remember making it for a family gathering, and the dish was met with rave reviews. The seafood stuffing is rich and creamy, while the peppers provide a crisp, fresh contrast that balances everything out. It’s the kind of dish that feels both indulgent and light, perfect for a holiday dinner or just when you want something a little fancier for dinner.

What’s also great about Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers is that you can customize the stuffing to suit your taste. Add more herbs, spice it up with a dash of hot sauce, or even throw in some sautéed vegetables for an extra layer of flavor. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or as a weeknight treat, these stuffed bell peppers will quickly become a go-to recipe that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Discover why these Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers are the perfect dish for any occasion:

• Seafood Sensation: A flavorful combination of crab and shrimp that adds depth to each bite.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with protein from the seafood and vitamins from the bell peppers.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and a straightforward preparation process.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or an appetizer for gatherings.
• Elevated Flavor: Fresh herbs and spices enhance the seafood stuffing for a burst of flavor.
• Visually Stunning: The colorful bell peppers make for a beautiful presentation.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Elegant enough for a holiday meal or dinner party.
• Customizable: Swap the crab or shrimp for other seafood, like lobster or scallops, for a personal touch.
• Low-Carb Option: Ideal for those following low-carb or keto diets.
• Satisfying and Filling: A hearty meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: Serves 4-6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 28g, Carbohydrates: 16g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers:

For the Stuffed Peppers

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound crab meat (fresh or imitation)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a GF option)
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or seafood seasoning)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)

Ingredient Highlights

• Bell Peppers: Choose firm, colorful peppers for the best presentation and flavor.
• Seafood: Fresh or frozen shrimp and crab give a rich, savory filling.
• Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess to the stuffing, balancing out the seafood’s texture.
• Old Bay Seasoning: Adds a classic seafood flavor to the filling.
• Breadcrumbs: Help to bind the stuffing and provide a nice texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers:

Prepare the Peppers

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish large enough to hold your bell peppers.
2. Prepare the Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the peppers upright in the prepared baking dish.

Make the Filling

1. Cook the Shrimp: In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from the pan and chop into small pieces.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, crab meat, sautéed onion and garlic, breadcrumbs, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.

Stuff the Peppers

1. Fill the Peppers: Spoon the seafood mixture into each bell pepper, pressing down gently to pack the filling.
2. Top with Cheese (Optional): Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each stuffed pepper for a cheesy finish.
3. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Finish and Serve

1. Cool Slightly: Let the stuffed peppers rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

How to Serve

These Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• With a Side Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette complements the richness of the stuffed peppers.
• Over Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
• With Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread to soak up any extra stuffing and sauce.
• As an Appetizer: Serve as individual appetizers for a dinner party or gathering.
• Alongside Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts make a great side.
• With a Lemon Wedge: Serve with lemon wedges on the side to add a burst of freshness.
• Over Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice.
• With a Creamy Sauce: Drizzle with a creamy white sauce or hollandaise sauce for extra richness.
• With Mashed Potatoes: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes for a more indulgent meal.
• With a Cold Drink: Pair with a chilled white wine, iced tea, or sparkling water.

Additional Tips

Make sure your Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers come out perfectly every time:

• Don’t Overstuff: Ensure that the peppers are packed without overflowing to avoid the stuffing spilling out while baking.
• Pre-Cook the Seafood: Always cook the shrimp and crab before mixing them into the stuffing to prevent overcooking during the baking process.
• Add Extra Seasoning: Taste the stuffing before filling the peppers and adjust the seasonings as needed.
• Use Fresh Crab Meat: Fresh crab meat is ideal, but imitation crab works in a pinch.
• Chop Shrimp Small: Make sure to chop the shrimp into small pieces for even distribution in the filling.
• Avoid Overcooking the Peppers: Be sure not to bake the peppers too long; they should be tender but still slightly firm.

Recipe Variations

Experiment with these variations of Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers:

• Lobster and Shrimp: Swap out the crab for lobster for a more luxurious filling.
• Spicy Kick: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for some heat.
• Cheesy Stuffing: Add more cheese to the stuffing, such as Monterey Jack or cheddar, for a cheesier dish.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the seafood with sautéed mushrooms and quinoa for a vegetarian alternative.
• Cajun Style: Use Cajun seasoning instead of Old Bay for a spicy, Southern twist.
• Bacon Addition: Add crumbled cooked bacon to the filling for an extra savory flavor.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely and use almond flour instead.
• Herb Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or dill for a more fragrant stuffing.
• Add Vegetables: Mix in finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell pepper into the stuffing for added veggies.

Freezing and Storage

Store your Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers with these helpful tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: After baking, cool the peppers completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until hot.
• Unbaked Freezing: You can also freeze the unbaked stuffed peppers and bake them directly from frozen, adding about 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Special Equipment

To make these Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers, you’ll need:

• Large Skillet: For cooking the shrimp and sautéing the onions and garlic.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: For baking the stuffed peppers.
• Chef’s Knife: For chopping vegetables and seafood.
• Cutting Board: To prep your ingredients.
• Large Mixing Bowl: For combining the stuffing ingredients.
• Spoon or Ice Cream Scoop: For filling the peppers with the stuffing.
• Aluminum Foil: To cover the baking dish while cooking.
• Grater: For grating Parmesan cheese.
• Small Bowl: For mixing the seasonings and herbs.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   Yes, just thaw them completely before cooking and chopping.
2. How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Prepare the stuffed peppers, cover, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. Can I make these without cheese?
   Yes, you can omit the cheese for a lighter version or use a dairy-free alternative.
4. Can I use other seafood instead of crab and shrimp?
   Yes, you can use scallops, lobster, or a mix of other seafood for variety.
5. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the stuffing to bring the heat.
6. What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
   You can use crushed crackers, panko, or almond flour as a substitute.
7. Can I use bell peppers that are not red?
   Yes, you can use any color of bell peppers for this recipe.
8. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
9. Can I bake these stuffed peppers from frozen?
   Yes, bake from frozen by adding 10-15 extra minutes to the cooking time.
10. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
    Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

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Conclusion

These Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delightful and elegant dish that brings together seafood, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, flavorful stuffing. Perfect for a family dinner, special gatherings, or as a main course at a holiday feast, they’re sure to impress. Simple to prepare yet sophisticated in flavor, these stuffed peppers are a great way to enjoy seafood in a new and exciting way. Whether you enjoy them with a side of salad, rice, or roasted vegetables, they’re bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

I can’t wait to see how your Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers turn out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations! Enjoy every savory bite, and happy cooking!