Why Make This Recipe
Crab and shrimp stuffed bell peppers are a fantastic way to enjoy seafood in a comforting, colorful dish. They are great for special occasions or just a cozy family dinner. The combination of flavorful crab and shrimp, mixed with fresh vegetables and herbs, creates a hearty meal. Plus, they are visually appealing and easy to prepare, making them a hit for guests and family alike.
How to Make Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers
- 1/2 lb lump crab meat
- 1/2 lb small shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup cooked rice
- 1/4 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Prepare Bell Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set them aside.
Cook Filling: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions, celery, green bell pepper, and garlic until they soften. Add the shrimp and cook until pink. Stir in the crab meat, cooked rice, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well.
Stuff Peppers: Fill each bell pepper with the crab and shrimp mixture. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
Serve: Serve warm and enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers!
How to Serve Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers
Crab and shrimp stuffed bell peppers are best served warm right out of the oven. You can pair them with a light salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. A squeeze of lemon on top can enhance the flavors even more. They make a lovely dish for entertaining guests or as a fun weeknight dinner.
How to Store Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers
If you have leftovers, you can store the stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze them before baking. Just wrap them well and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Tips to Make Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Choose Fresh Seafood: Using fresh crab and shrimp will enhance the flavors.
- Customize the Fillings: Feel free to add other vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
- Use Colorful Peppers: Mix and match bell pepper colors for a beautiful presentation.
Variation
You can make a vegetarian version by replacing the crab and shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or other mixed vegetables. Adding some black beans can also give it a nice protein boost.
FAQs
Can I make the filling in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Just stuff the peppers and bake them when you’re ready.
Can I use different types of seafood?
Absolutely! You can use other types of shellfish like lobster or even fish. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
Are stuffed peppers healthy?
Yes, stuffed peppers are generally healthy! They are low in calories and packed with nutrients from the vegetables and seafood, making them a nutritious choice.
