Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

If you’re looking for a seafood-inspired meal that’s both delicious and satisfying, Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers is the perfect dish for you. This recipe takes the sweet, tender flavors of crab and shrimp and combines them with seasoned rice and melted cheese, all stuffed into vibrant, bell pepper shells. The result is a healthy, flavorful dish that offers the best of both seafood and vegetables in every bite.

Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, these stuffed bell peppers are sure to impress your guests or family members. In this article, we will guide you step-by-step through the entire process of making this dish, providing you with all the necessary information, tips, and benefits for a successful meal.

Ingredients for Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers

To make the Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined, chopped
• 1/2 lb crab meat
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients combine to create a savory seafood stuffing that complements the sweet bell peppers, resulting in a mouthwatering dish.

Directions for Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers

Follow these detailed directions to create your Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with non-stick spray or a bit of olive oil.
2. Prepare the bell peppers by cutting off the tops and removing the seeds. Set them aside.
3. Prepare the seafood filling: In a large bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, crab meat, cooked rice, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix all the ingredients until they are evenly distributed.
4. Stuff the peppers: Carefully spoon the seafood mixture into the bell peppers. Press gently to pack the filling in, ensuring that each pepper is stuffed to the brim.
5. Arrange in the baking dish: Place the stuffed peppers upright in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with a little olive oil on top of each pepper to help them cook evenly.
6. Bake the stuffed peppers: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bell peppers are tender. The seafood mixture should also be heated through.
7. Add the cheese: After 25-30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each stuffed pepper. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and serve: Once the cheese has melted, remove the peppers from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
9. Serve and enjoy: These stuffed bell peppers pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or your favorite side dish. Enjoy!

Prep Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time

• Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Total Time

• Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Servings

• Servings: 4 (One stuffed pepper per serving)

Kcal Per Serving

• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 kcal

Tips for the Perfect Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers

• Customize your filling: Feel free to swap out the crab or shrimp for other seafood or protein options such as scallops or chicken, if desired. However, the combination of crab and shrimp is highly recommended for its perfect balance of flavors.
• Use fresh ingredients: The fresher your seafood, the better your stuffed peppers will taste. If possible, opt for fresh crab meat and shrimp, but frozen options will work just as well if that’s all you can find.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy spicier dishes, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the seafood mixture to give the peppers a bit of heat.
• Cheese variation: Experiment with different types of cheese for topping the peppers. A blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese can add an extra layer of flavor and richness.
• Try different vegetables: While bell peppers are the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or squash, as an alternative stuffing base.

Benefits of Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers

This dish offers a range of health benefits, making it not only a tasty meal but also a nutritious one. Here are some of the key benefits:

• High in protein: Crab and shrimp are excellent sources of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Protein also helps keep you full for longer, making this dish a satisfying meal.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals: Bell peppers are packed with vitamins A and C, which support immune function, skin health, and overall well-being. They also contain antioxidants that help fight inflammation.
• Low in carbohydrates: The combination of seafood and rice in the stuffing makes this dish relatively low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those on a low-carb or keto diet. You can further reduce the carb content by using cauliflower rice.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Both shrimp and crab are sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function.

Conclusion

Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers is a delightful dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a casual meal, this Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe will surely satisfy your seafood cravings. With fresh seafood, healthy bell peppers, and a creamy cheese topping, it’s a balanced dish that offers both taste and nutrition. Follow the step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have a meal that your guests or family will rave about.

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