Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers

If you’re a seafood lover looking for an easy yet impressive dish, this Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe will be a hit. With succulent crab and shrimp packed into sweet bell peppers, the flavors blend beautifully in this hearty, protein-rich meal. It’s an elevated twist on classic stuffed peppers, ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Whether you’re preparing this for your family or a dinner party, the combination of seafood and vegetables creates a wholesome, delicious meal that’s easy to make but looks and tastes gourmet.

Why You’ll Love These Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers

• Perfect for Seafood Lovers: The combination of crab and shrimp creates a flavorful, protein-packed filling.
• Healthy and Flavorful: Bell peppers are a great source of vitamins, while crab and shrimp offer a light but satisfying option.
• Quick and Easy: Despite the gourmet appeal, this recipe comes together in less than 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

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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What to Serve with Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers

These Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Peppers pair beautifully with a variety of sides:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up any extra seafood juices from the stuffed peppers.
• Light Salad: A fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette balances out the richness of the seafood and cheese.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for a complete, nutritious meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Stuffed Bell Peppers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• To Reheat: Warm the stuffed bell peppers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave them in short bursts until heated through.

Make-Ahead Instructions for Crab and Shrimp Bell Peppers

You can prepare these Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers ahead of time. Follow the recipe up until the baking step, then cover and refrigerate the peppers for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, bake them as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time since the peppers will be cold.

Final Thoughts on Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers

This Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe is perfect for anyone who loves seafood and wants to try something a little different. The combination of tender shrimp, flavorful crab, and sweet bell peppers creates a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving this for a special dinner or just want to elevate your weeknight meals, it’s sure to impress.

Give this recipe a try the next time you’re in the mood for seafood, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family!