Description
Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers are a flavorful seafood dish that combines tender shrimp, sweet crab meat, and a creamy, cheesy filling. This baked dish is perfect for special occasions or an easy weeknight dinner. With bell peppers as the base, the stuffing is full of savory ingredients, making each bite a delightful indulgence. This recipe is sure to impress guests and satisfy your seafood cravings.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined, chopped into small pieces
- 1/2 lb lump crab meat (or imitation crab)
- 1/2 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the topping (optional):
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese or more mozzarella (for sprinkling on top)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If the peppers don’t stand upright, slice a small portion off the bottom to create a flat base. Place the peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add crab meat and cook for 1-2 minutes to warm through, then set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked shrimp, crab meat, rice, cream cheese, mayonnaise, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Add chopped parsley and mix well.
- Stuff the peppers with the seafood mixture, packing it in tightly. Optionally, top with extra cheese for a melty finish.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- You can replace the shrimp and crab with other seafood options like lobster or scallops.
- For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cream cheese and cheese substitutes.
- To lower the carb content, swap rice with cauliflower rice or spinach and zucchini.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference by adding cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or fresh lemon zest.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Seafood
