If you’re searching for a dish that beautifully balances elegance with comfort, the Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is your new go-to meal. This recipe combines sweet, tender lump crab meat and succulent shrimp with creamy cheeses and savory spices, all nestled perfectly inside colorful bell peppers. It’s a fusion of flavors and textures that’s as pretty on the plate as it is delightful to the palate. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or craving a satisfying pescatarian dinner, these stuffed peppers deliver that wow factor with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh, straightforward ingredients is key to creating a Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe that bursts with flavor and balances textures. Each component enhances the final dish, from the crisp sweetness of bell peppers to the creamy, zesty filling.
- 4 large bell peppers (any color): Choose firm peppers to hold the stuffing perfectly and add vibrant color to your dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to brush the peppers for a lovely roasted finish and to prevent sticking.
- 1/2 pound lump crab meat: Picked over for shells to ensure every bite is tender and pure seafood goodness.
- 1/2 pound cooked shrimp: Chopped into bite-sized pieces for even distribution throughout the filling.
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Gives the stuffing a savory, aromatic boost.
- 1/2 cup cooked white rice: Helps bind the stuffing and adds gentle texture without overpowering the seafood.
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise: Brings creaminess and moisture to the mix.
- 1/4 cup cream cheese (softened): Offers a luscious, smooth texture that melds all ingredients together.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the whole dish with a fresh, citrusy kick.
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: The quintessential seasoning for seafood, packing subtle heat and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a touch of spicy warmth for those who love a little extra kick.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Provides herbaceous freshness and a pop of green color.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese: Melts beautifully on top, forming a golden, bubbly crust.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all flavors.
How to Make Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F to get things warm and ready. Then, carefully cut the tops off the bell peppers and scoop out all the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the outside of each pepper with olive oil; this not only helps them roast evenly but also adds a lovely shine. Place the peppers upright in a baking dish to keep that gorgeous shape intact throughout baking.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic for about 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. This creates a flavorful base that will mingle with the seafood perfectly without overpowering it.
Step 3: Mix the Stuffing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with the crab meat, chopped shrimp, cooked rice, mayonnaise, softened cream cheese, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Sprinkle in the fresh parsley, and add salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything gently but thoroughly, ensuring every bite of filling will have a lovely balance of flavors and textures.
Step 4: Stuff the Peppers
With a spoon, carefully stuff each bell pepper with the seafood mixture, pressing gently to pack the filling snugly inside. Don’t overfill—just enough to mound slightly. Top each one with shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese, which will melt and create that irresistible golden crust as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake Until Perfect
Place the stuffed peppers in the oven, uncovered, and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the peppers are tender but still hold their shape, and the cheese on top is delightfully golden and bubbly. Let them cool just a bit before serving to allow the flavors to settle and make them easier to enjoy.
How to Serve Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few lemon wedges on the side can brighten the presentation and flavor of your Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe. The fresh herbs add a lovely contrast to the rich seafood stuffing, and a squeeze of lemon juice just before eating enhances all those delicious tastes.
Side Dishes
Your stuffed peppers pair beautifully with light, refreshing sides like a crisp garden salad or steamed green beans. For something more indulgent, a slice of garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls complement the creamy, cheesy filling perfectly, making the meal feel complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving your Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe on a bed of mixed greens for a colorful, elegant plating. You could also top the filling with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan and broil briefly for a crunchy cheesy crust. For dinner parties, individual servings in small ramekins using mini bell peppers make for adorable appetizers or tapas-style dishes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover stuffed peppers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool them completely before storing, which helps maintain their texture and flavor for your next meal.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy the Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe later, wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use a freezer-safe container. They freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve their taste and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the peppers tend to become soft and soggy. This method keeps the filling creamy and the peppers tender but not mushy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of seafood in this stuffing?
Absolutely! While this Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe highlights crab and shrimp, you can swap in scallops or lobster for a different twist. Just be mindful of cooking times and textures to maintain balance.
Are bell peppers the only vegetable I can use for stuffing?
Bell peppers work wonderfully because their shape holds the filling well, but zucchini, tomatoes, or even large mushrooms can be fun alternatives if you’re mixing things up.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your seasonings and mayonnaise do not contain gluten. It’s a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I prepare the stuffed peppers ahead of time before baking?
You can prepare the peppers by stuffing them and refrigerating them a few hours ahead before baking. Just bake them fresh to achieve the best texture and flavor.
What can I do to make this recipe spicier?
Add more cayenne pepper or swap the Old Bay seasoning for a spicy Cajun mix. You can also include chopped jalapeños in the stuffing for an extra kick that complements the seafood beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is truly a little treasure—combining the sweetness of seafood with creamy, cheesy goodness inside crisp and colorful peppers. It’s the kind of dish that turns any ordinary meal into a memorable occasion. I encourage you to treat yourself to making this recipe soon; it’s easier than it looks and sure to become a cherished favorite among your family and friends. Happy cooking!
Print
Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers combine sweet lump crab meat, tender shrimp, and aromatic spices baked inside colorful bell peppers, creating a flavorful and nutritious main course that’s perfect for a delightful seafood dinner.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Seafood
- 1/2 pound lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
- 1/2 pound cooked shrimp (chopped)
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup cooked white rice
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, carefully removing seeds and membranes, then brush the outsides lightly with olive oil. Stand them upright in a baking dish, ready for stuffing.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with lump crab meat, chopped cooked shrimp, cooked white rice, mayonnaise, softened cream cheese, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, optional cayenne pepper, and chopped parsley. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to your preference, and mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Stuff the peppers: Fill each prepared bell pepper cavity gently but firmly with the seafood mixture. Sprinkle the tops evenly with shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese for a melty, golden finish.
- Bake: Place the stuffed peppers uncovered in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is bubbling with a golden cheese crust.
- Serve: Let the stuffed peppers cool slightly before serving warm, paired with a fresh side salad or garlic bread as desired.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, roast the peppers for 10 minutes prior to stuffing to deepen their sweetness and soften them slightly.
- Substitute Old Bay seasoning with Cajun seasoning if you prefer a spicier kick in your filling.
- Serve stuffed peppers with a crisp green salad or crusty garlic bread to complete the meal.
