Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers: A Coastal Twist on a Comfort Food Classic
Few dishes strike the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication quite like Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers. This irresistible recipe combines the sweet, briny flavors of the sea with the earthy freshness of roasted bell peppers, creating a meal that’s both indulgent and wholesome. Each pepper overflows with a luscious seafood filling—creamy crab, tender shrimp, savory herbs, and a hint of spice—baked to golden perfection.
Whether served as a luxurious main course for a special dinner or a show-stopping dish for a weekend feast, these stuffed peppers are guaranteed to impress. The juicy, oven-roasted peppers serve as edible vessels for a rich seafood mixture that melts in your mouth. Every bite delivers a delightful combination of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors that celebrate the very best of coastal cuisine.
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Ingredients and Their Roles
• 4 large bell peppers (any color) – The base of the dish. Bell peppers add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color while providing a sturdy shell for the filling.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Used to coat the peppers and sauté ingredients, adding richness and depth of flavor.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped – Adds aromatic sweetness and enhances the savory base.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the filling with irresistible fragrance and warmth.
• ½ pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped – Provides juicy, tender bites of seafood flavor. Shrimp adds natural sweetness and texture contrast.
• ½ pound crab meat (lump or claw) – Brings luxurious, buttery richness and a delicate ocean flavor.
• 1 cup cooked rice – Helps bind the filling together and adds heartiness without overpowering the seafood.
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened – Creates a creamy, luscious texture that holds the filling perfectly.
• ¼ cup mayonnaise – Adds moisture, tang, and a silky finish to the mixture.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Enhances the depth of flavor with a subtle tangy kick.
• ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning – A must-have spice blend that complements seafood with notes of paprika and celery salt.
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) – Adds gentle heat for those who like a little spice.
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully into the filling for creamy richness.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Provides sharp, nutty flavor and golden-brown topping.
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley – Adds freshness and brightens the dish.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
• Lemon wedges, for serving – A final squeeze of lemon juice elevates the dish with bright, citrusy freshness.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the bell peppers:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Drizzle the insides lightly with olive oil, season with a pinch of salt, and place them cut-side up in a baking dish. Roast for 10–12 minutes to soften slightly, then set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent—about 3–4 minutes.
3. Cook the seafood:
Add the chopped shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and just opaque, about 3 minutes. Stir in the crab meat and cook another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Mix the filling:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, cayenne pepper, mozzarella, Parmesan, and parsley. Add the seafood mixture and stir until well combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Stuff the peppers:
Spoon the seafood filling generously into each roasted pepper, pressing lightly to pack it in. Sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for a crispy golden crust.
6. Bake to perfection:
Return the stuffed peppers to the oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and bubbling.
7. Finish and serve:
Let the peppers cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a bright, zesty finish.
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Why This Recipe Is Loved
Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers are adored for their rich yet balanced flavors. The creamy, cheesy seafood filling contrasts beautifully with the light sweetness of roasted peppers, offering a perfect harmony of taste and texture. This dish feels decadent yet comforting—an elegant seafood dinner that’s surprisingly simple to make.
Seafood lovers cherish this recipe because it’s versatile, customizable, and deeply satisfying. It captures the coastal essence without requiring complex techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
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Pro Tips for Perfecting the Dish
• Use fresh seafood for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp or crab, thaw and drain well.
• Pre-roast the peppers before stuffing to ensure they’re tender but still hold their shape.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp—they’ll finish cooking in the oven.
• Balance the creaminess with acidity: a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens every bite.
• For extra indulgence, top with breadcrumbs mixed with butter and Parmesan before baking for a crispy crust.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve these Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers as the star of your table with:
• Garlic butter rice or herbed couscous for a hearty base.
• A fresh garden salad with citrus vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
• Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans for a light, elegant side.
• A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the seafood’s delicate flavors.
For a more casual presentation, slice the peppers in half and serve as stuffed pepper boats for brunch or lunch.
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Conclusion
These Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers are a celebration of everything that makes coastal cooking unforgettable—fresh seafood, creamy textures, and vibrant flavors that sing with every bite. They’re elegant enough for a dinner party yet easy enough for a weeknight meal, making them a true kitchen favorite.
With their irresistible aroma, golden tops, and savory-sweet filling, these stuffed peppers prove that seafood doesn’t need to be complicated to be extraordinary.
Simple to make, visually stunning, and absolutely delicious—Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers are a gourmet experience you can create at home.