The Fondant Seafood Stuffed Bread Bowl is an indulgent and visually impressive dish perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or a special weekend treat. Combining creamy cheeses, succulent shrimp, tender crabmeat, and a perfectly baked bread shell, it offers a rich, comforting seafood experience that’s as fun to serve as it is to eat.
Ingredients
For the Bread Bowl and Filling:
- 1 large round sourdough bread loaf (top cut off and hollowed)
- 1/2 lb (225g) cooked shrimp, chopped (reserve a few whole for garnish)
- 1/2 lb (225g) crabmeat chunks (real or imitation)
- 1 cup (120g) grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or your preferred seafood seasoning)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley or chives (for garnish)
- Extra mozzarella for topping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet to hold the bread bowl. - Prepare the Creamy Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, minced garlic, and Old Bay seasoning. Stir until smooth and creamy. - Fold in Seafood and Cheese:
Gently fold in the chopped shrimp, crabmeat, mozzarella, salt, and pepper, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed. - Stuff the Bread Bowl:
Hollow out the sourdough loaf carefully, keeping the walls thick enough to hold the filling. Spoon the seafood mixture into the hollowed bread. - Top with Extra Cheese:
Sprinkle additional mozzarella on top for a golden, bubbly finish. - Bake:
Place the filled bread bowl on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. - Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives and a few whole shrimp for an elegant presentation. Slice and serve directly from the bread bowl.
Tips and Variations
- Bread Choice: Sourdough is ideal for structure and flavor, but a round country loaf or even a large brioche works well.
- Seafood Options: Swap crabmeat with lobster, scallops, or a mix of seafood according to preference and availability.
- Cheese Variations: For extra creaminess, add a handful of grated Gruyère or Parmesan alongside the mozzarella.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the filling a few hours in advance and refrigerate. Assemble the bread bowl just before baking for convenience.
- Spice Level: Adjust Old Bay seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick.
- Serving Ideas: Pair with a light green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic butter for dipping. The hollowed bread walls are perfect for scooping up extra filling.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the cheesy texture without making the bread too soggy.