🦀 Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers 🍤
Ingredients for Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers
For these Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:
* 4 large bell peppers (any color)
* ½ lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
* ½ lb lump crab meat
* 1 medium onion, finely chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 cup cooked rice (optional, for added filling)
* 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
* ½ teaspoon paprika
* ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
* 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
* ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or another mild cheese)
* ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Peppers
1. Prepare the Bell Peppers for Stuffing
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside. If necessary, trim the bottoms slightly so the peppers can stand upright in a baking dish.
2. Cook the Seafood Filling for the Peppers
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Next, add the chopped shrimp and cook for about 3 minutes, until pink and opaque. Stir in the lump crab meat and cook for another 2 minutes, just until heated through.
3. Season and Mix the Seafood Filling
Season the shrimp and crab mixture with Old Bay seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and fresh parsley. If you’re adding rice for extra bulk, stir it into the seafood mixture. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, then remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Stuff the Bell Peppers with the Crab and Shrimp Mixture
Generously spoon the crab and shrimp filling into each bell pepper. For a deliciously crunchy top, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the filling. Then, top each pepper with shredded mozzarella cheese for a rich, cheesy finish.
5. Bake the Seafood-Stuffed Peppers
Place the stuffed peppers in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbling. For a crispier top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
6. Serve Your Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers
Let the peppers cool slightly before serving. For an added burst of flavor, serve with lemon wedges, which complement the seafood beautifully. Enjoy these savory, seafood-stuffed delights while they’re hot!
Expert Tips for Making the Best Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Peppers
Crunchy Topping: Adding breadcrumbs creates a crispy texture. Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crunchy finish.
Choosing Your Bell Peppers: Red or yellow bell peppers are sweeter and pair well with seafood, but green peppers will work too.
Adding Rice: If you want a heartier dish, mix in cooked rice to bulk up the filling. Brown rice, white rice, or even cauliflower rice works well.
Cheese Options: While mozzarella offers a mild, creamy flavor, try using cheddar, Gouda, or Parmesan for a different twist.
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