Published on December 20, 2025
Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 8 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Quick Answer
A delightful Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl that’s an experience of warmth and flavor, perfect for cozy gatherings.
As winter approaches in New York City, the chill in the air makes cozy gatherings with loved ones even more special. I find myself daydreaming about holiday feasts and indulgent treats to serve at my Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations. One of my recent creations that has quickly become a favorite among friends and family is the Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience—full of warmth, flavor, and a touch of sophistication.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a unique centerpiece that will impress your guests at holiday gatherings.
- Rich and creamy seafood filling packed into a crusty bread bowl for the ultimate indulgence.
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Customizable seafood options allow you to cater to different tastes and preferences.
- A delightful combination of flavors and textures that warms the heart during chilly winter nights.
Ingredients
Gather these delicious ingredients to create your Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl.
For the Bread Bowl
- 1 large round loaf of crusty bread (like a sourdough or artisan bread)
For the Seafood Filling
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup cooked crab meat (lump crab preferred)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheese (blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup diced green onions
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl (Step-by-Step)
This delightful dish is simple to make and perfect for any gathering.
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Bowl
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, carefully cut the top off your round loaf of bread to create a lid. Use your hands to hollow out the inside, leaving about 1 inch of bread around the edges to form a sturdy bowl. Don’t toss the insides; you’ll use the leftover bread for dipping later.
Step 2: Create the Seafood Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cooked shrimp, crab meat, shredded cheese, diced green onions, lemon juice, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. As you mix, enjoy the creamy texture enveloping the seafood, with a delightful hint of citrus filling the air.
Step 3: Stuff the Bread Bowl
Spoon the seafood filling generously into the hollowed-out bread bowl. Press it down gently to ensure it’s packed in nicely, then place the lid on top to create a cute little hat for your seafood treasure.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the stuffed bread bowl on a baking sheet and slide it into the oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the bread is golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when you smell the melted cheese mingling with the sea-salty aroma of seafood—it’s utterly fantastic!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Place it on your serving platter, remove the lid, and sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Enjoy this delightful dish with your loved ones!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t overbake the bread, as it can become overly hard to cut.
- Make sure not to omit the Worcestershire sauce—its umami flavor is crucial.
- Avoid using frozen seafood, as it can release excess water, making the filling too watery.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Feel free to mix and match seafood—lobster or scallops are delicious alternatives.
- Spice things up by adding a touch of Old Bay seasoning for a nod to classic seafood dishes.
- For a richer flavor, consider incorporating sautéed onions or bell peppers into the filling.
Variations
- Substitute shrimp with lobster or scallops for a different seafood experience.
- Replace cream cheese with mascarpone for a creamier texture.
- Use different types of cheese, such as gouda or pepper jack, for a unique flavor.
How to Serve
- Serve warm with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
- Pair with a crisp white wine or a refreshing cocktail.
- Garnish with lemon wedges for added brightness.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the seafood filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
- Storage: Store the seafood mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven until warmed through or enjoy cold with crackers.
- Freezing: It is not recommended to freeze the stuffed bread bowl as the texture may suffer.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
When creating this Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl, I realized just how important the balance of flavors is. The addition of the lemon juice not only brightened the dish but also elevated the seafood’s freshness, making it truly stand out. This recipe has remained a favorite in my home, proving that thoughtful touches can turn a classic into a celebration centerpiece.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 1 large bread bowl · Serving Size: 6-8 servings
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 20g protein · 30g carbs · 18g fat
Irresistible Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully cut the top off your round loaf of bread to create a lid, and hollow out the inside, leaving about 1 inch of bread around the edges.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, shrimp, crab meat, shredded cheese, green onions, lemon juice, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Spoon the seafood filling into the hollowed-out bread bowl, pressing down gently. Place the lid on top.
- Place the bread bowl on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the bread is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of seafood in the Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match with seafood like lobster or scallops for variety.
2. How can I make the filling more flavorful?
Consider adding a touch of Old Bay seasoning or incorporating sautéed onions or bell peppers for added depth of flavor.
3. Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the seafood mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before stuffing the bread bowl.
4. What should I do with any leftover bread from the bowl?
You can use the leftover bread pieces for dipping into the filling, or serve them alongside the dish as a crunchy accompaniment.
5. How do I know when the Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl is done baking?
Your dish is ready when the cheese is bubbly and the bread is golden brown, with a delicious aroma wafting through the kitchen.
