Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a dish that’s both elegant and comforting, look no further than Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers. These savory treats are ideal for family dinners, holidays, or when you just want to impress your guests. The combination of tender seafood and juicy bell peppers is absolutely divine. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- It’s bursting with flavors from the sea, thanks to the fresh crab and shrimp.
- The dish is incredibly versatile and can be served as an appetizer or main course.
- It’s a healthier alternative to traditional stuffed peppers, with a boost of protein.
- Easy to make and visually impressive, it’s perfect for entertaining.
- The recipe offers great flexibility with ingredients and seasonings.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers
- 8 oz of crab meat
- 8 oz of shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Arrange them in a baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until translucent. Stir in chopped shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine crab meat, cooked shrimp mixture, rice, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper, then mix well.
Step 4: Stuff and Bake
Stuff each bell pepper with the seafood mixture, then top with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes
For a creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of cream cheese to the filling. If you’re curious about the nutritional benefits of seafood, Seafood Nutrition Partnership provides excellent resources.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.
- Cheesy Delight: Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and parmesan for more flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace seafood with chopped mushrooms and zucchini.
Required Equipment
- Baking dish
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
Storage Instructions
Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Suggested Pairings
Pair these stuffed peppers with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- Ensure your shrimp are fresh by purchasing from a reputable source. Learn more about choosing fresh seafood here.
- For even cooking, make sure all peppers are similar in size.
- Use a spoon to pack the filling tightly into the peppers, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
FAQ
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day in advance, storing them in the fridge until ready to bake. - Can I use canned crab meat?
Yes, canned crab meat works well if fresh is not available. Just ensure it’s well-drained. - What if I don’t have Old Bay seasoning?
You can substitute with a mix of paprika, celery salt, and a dash of cayenne pepper.