Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of seafood with the vibrant crunch of bell peppers. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is not only easy to make but also visually impressive. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to try something new and exciting, these stuffed peppers are sure to please any palate.
Why Make This Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers
This dish offers a fantastic balance of flavors and textures. The sweet and tender bells peppers serve as the perfect vessel for the creamy, savory filling made with shrimp and crab. It’s not only delicious but also makes for a colorful presentation on your dinner table. Plus, it’s versatile! You can serve it as a main course, an appetizer, or even a side dish during special occasions. Each bite bursts with the freshness of seafood and bright flavors from lemon and herbs, making it a dish that’s hard to resist.
How to Make Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers
Creating Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers is a straightforward process that results in an impressive meal. You’ll start by preheating your oven, and while that’s heating up, prepare the bell peppers and the delectable seafood filling. With just a bit of chopping and mixing, you’ll have everything ready to go in the oven in no time!
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup crab meat
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.
- In a bowl, combine shrimp, crab meat, cream cheese, mozzarella, breadcrumbs, parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the seafood mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until heated through.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to brown the tops.
- Serve warm.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (1 stuffed bell pepper) contains approximately:
- Calories: 300
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 20g
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
How to Serve Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers
These stuffed peppers are best served warm and fresh from the oven. They pair wonderfully with a light salad or some crusty bread on the side for a complete meal. For a more festive touch, consider drizzling a little tangy seafood sauce over them or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. They also make great appetizers; just cut larger peppers into smaller sections for easy bites.
How to Store Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will last for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For longer storage, consider freezing them before baking. Wrap each stuffed pepper tightly and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as instructed.
Expert Tips for Perfect Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Choose firm bell peppers without blemishes for the best results.
- Mix and match the seafood! You can substitute scallops or even add some cooked lobster for a luxurious twist.
- For a lighter option, try using low-fat cream cheese or skipping the breadcrumbs.
- Ensure that the filling is well-seasoned to balance the sweetness of the peppers.
Delicious Variations
Consider adding some sautéed onions or bell pepper pieces into the filling for an extra layer of flavor. You can also spice things up by incorporating chopped jalapeños for heat or some Italian seasoning for an herby kick. For a cheesy touch, mix in additional cheeses like cheddar or Parmesan to the filling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp or crab meat?
Yes, frozen seafood can be used. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before mixing into the stuffing to avoid excess moisture.What type of bell peppers work best?
While any color of bell pepper will work, red, yellow, or orange peppers bring a sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the filling. Green peppers have a more bitter flavor.Can I prepare the peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Conclusion
Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delicious, convenient dish that offers an impressive combination of flavors and textures. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try making it for your next gathering or meal, and don’t hesitate to share your cooking experience and insights with others. Happy cooking!
Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a bowl, combine shrimp, crab meat, cream cheese, mozzarella, breadcrumbs, parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the seafood mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until heated through.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to brown the tops.
- Serve warm.