Description
If you’re a seafood lover looking for a dish that’s both flavorful and visually stunning, then these Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers are the perfect choice. This recipe combines the sweet, tender meat of crab and shrimp with vibrant bell peppers, creating a meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner for guests or just craving a hearty meal, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and balance of flavors. The sweetness of the bell peppers pairs perfectly with the rich, savory seafood stuffing, while the herbs and spices add layers of flavor that make every bite a delight. Plus, the peppers serve as a natural, edible container, making this dish as convenient as it is tasty.
From start to finish, this dish brings together the best of coastal cuisine with the comfort of a home-cooked meal. It’s a recipe that looks as good as it tastes, making it a great choice for everything from weeknight dinners to special occasions.
Ingredients
Ingredients List (with Measurements)
For the Stuffed Bell Peppers:
- 6 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- ½ pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1 cup cooked white rice (optional for a heartier stuffing)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil to prevent the peppers from sticking.
2. Prep the Bell Peppers
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If needed, trim a small slice off the bottom so the peppers stand upright. Place the peppers in the prepared baking dish.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Cook the Seafood
Add the chopped shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until just opaque. Stir in the crab meat and cook for an additional 2 minutes, just until heated through. Remove the skillet from heat.
5. Prepare the Stuffing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked seafood, sautéed onions and garlic, cooked rice (if using), mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, ½ cup of the mozzarella cheese, parsley, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
6. Stuff the Peppers
Using a spoon, carefully stuff each bell pepper with the seafood mixture, pressing it down lightly to fill each pepper completely. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese over the top of each stuffed pepper.
7. Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the stuffed peppers.
8. Bake the Peppers
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake the stuffed peppers in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the peppers are tender.
9. Cool and Serve
Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the peppers cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley if desired, and enjoy your Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers hot.
Notes
Tips and Notes
- Use Fresh Seafood: For the best flavor, always opt for fresh crab and shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw and drain them properly to prevent excess moisture in the stuffing.
- Customize the Stuffing: You can customize the stuffing by adding extra ingredients such as diced tomatoes, chopped spinach, or even cooked quinoa for added texture and flavor. A bit of hot sauce or red pepper flakes can spice things up for those who like a kick.
- Make It Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the stuffing a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to stuff the peppers and bake them. This is especially useful if you’re preparing the dish for a dinner party or special occasion.
- Cheese Substitutes: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. A sharp cheddar or even feta can be used to give the dish a tangy edge. For a more subtle flavor, stick with mozzarella or a mild Monterey Jack.