Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers with Seafood

Craving a dish that perfectly blends the flavors of the sea with the sweetness of bell peppers? Look no further than these Tasty Seafood Filled Peppers! Elevate your dining experience with this delightful recipe that combines the richness of crab and shrimp with gooey cheese and aromatic herbs.

When preparing these Tasty Seafood Filled Peppers, remember that achieving the perfect balance between the slightly underdone peppers and juicy filling is key. As my grandma used to say, timing is everything when it comes to creating stuffed peppers that are a hit every time.

Whether you’re planning a special dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, these seafood-filled peppers are a versatile option that never fails to impress. Feel free to get creative with your additions, from Mediterranean-inspired ingredients like capers and olives to crunchy elements like water chestnuts. With a few tweaks and twists, you can customize this dish to suit any occasion and palate. So, get ready to delight your taste buds and wow your guests with these delectable Tasty Seafood Filled Peppers!

Quick Benefits

• Rich in seafood goodness with a mix of crab and shrimp
• Versatile dish suitable for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to fancy events
• Offers flexibility to customize with different ingredients like olives, capers, cheeses, and additional veggies
• Smart cooking tips ensure optimal results, from temperature control to creative serving suggestions

Why You’ll Love This Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers with Seafood Recipe

• The combination of crab meat and shrimp creates a luxurious and flavorful filling that seafood lovers will adore.
• The gooey blend of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan adds a rich and decadent element to the dish.
• The hint of Old Bay spice mix and sweet paprika, along with the fragrant herbs and garlic, infuse the peppers with a depth of flavor that is irresistible.
• The versatility of this dish makes it perfect for any occasion – from a special dinner party to a weeknight meal.
• The option to customize the recipe by adding ingredients like capers, olives, or roasted red peppers allows for endless variations to suit individual preferences.
• The presentation of the stuffed peppers is stunning, making them a visually appealing addition to any dinner table or party spread.
• The cooking tips provided ensure that the peppers are perfectly cooked, with the filling set just right for a delicious dining experience.
• The recipe offers suggestions for healthier alternatives, such as adding quinoa or veggies, making it a nutritious choice for those looking to eat well.
• The various cooking methods suggested, from grilling to air frying, provide flexibility for different preferences and time constraints, making it a convenient option for busy cooks.
• Overall, these seafood-filled peppers offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to impress both guests and family members, making them a must-try recipe for anyone who enjoys seafood and delicious meals.

Ingredients for Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers with Seafood

Base

• 4 big bell peppers (pick any color)
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil

Seafood & Cheese

• ½ cup cream cheese at room temperature
• 1 cup diced cooked shrimp
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan
• ½ cup grated mozzarella
• 1 cup shredded ready-to-eat crab meat

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon Old Bay spice mix
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped up
• season with salt and pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne for heat (skip if you want)
• ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
• 2 green onions thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves finely chopped

Pro Tips for Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers with Seafood

For the best results, aim to cook the bell peppers until just under done. This will prevent them from turning mushy and help maintain the juiciness of the filling. Timing is key – ensuring both the peppers and the filling finish cooking simultaneously is the secret to perfect stuffed peppers.

To elevate the dish further, consider experimenting with additional ingredients. Try incorporating capers, olives, or roasted red peppers for a Mediterranean touch. Enhance the texture by adding diced celery or water chestnuts. Explore different cheese options like fontina or gruyere for a unique flavor profile. For a luxurious touch, top each pepper with butter-cooked lobster bits before serving at special events.

How to Make Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers with Seafood

Step 1: Get peppers ready

Preheat oven to 375°F. Remove tops of peppers, scoop out insides, coat with oil, and place in baking dish.

Step 2: Whip up stuffing

Mix the three cheeses together until well combined. Stir in the seafood, garlic, sliced onions, and spices.

Step 3: Load and cook

Fill the pepper shells with the seafood mixture. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the oven for 25 minutes.

Step 4: Final touch

Remove foil and broil for 3-5 minutes until the top is golden. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the tasty seafood-filled peppers, storing them properly is essential to maintain their freshness and flavor. If you have leftovers, allow the peppers to cool completely at room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate the stuffed peppers within 2 hours of cooking to prevent any potential foodborne illnesses. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat the seafood-filled peppers, place them in a baking dish and cover them loosely with foil. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, but be sure to check and stir them periodically for even heating. Properly stored and reheated, these delicious stuffed peppers will still taste amazing, allowing you to enjoy them for another meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

For potential ingredient substitutions in this seafood filled peppers recipe, you can easily switch out the crab meat for cooked lobster meat for a more luxurious touch. If you prefer a different seafood flavor, consider using cooked flaked salmon or even a mix of different seafood like scallops or mussels to create a diverse filling.

In terms of cheese options, feel free to experiment with alternatives like fontina or gruyere instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile. If you’re looking to lighten up the dish, opt for reduced-fat cream cheese or even Greek yogurt as a healthier substitute. Additionally, for a tangy twist, swap the Parmesan for pecorino or asiago cheese.

To cater to different dietary preferences or add more nutritional value, incorporate riced cauliflower or quinoa into the filling instead of some of the seafood. You can also boost the veggie content by adding diced mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the mix. For a spicy kick without cayenne, try using smoked paprika or a dash of chili powder for flavor variation.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate the presentation of these Tasty Seafood Filled Peppers by arranging them on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs, lemon slices, and edible flowers. Create a stunning seafood theme by serving them alongside crab cakes and shrimp cocktail, providing a luxurious dining experience for your guests. For a colorful display, mix and match red, yellow, and orange bell peppers to add a vibrant pop to your table.

For a unique twist, try grilling the stuffed peppers for a smoky flavor profile. You can also experiment with different grains like quinoa or farro, or add in extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini to bulk up the filling. To cater to dietary preferences, consider using light cream cheese and reducing the total cheese content or incorporating alternative cheeses like fontina or gruyere for a sophisticated touch.

FAQs for Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers with Seafood

Can I use a different type of seafood in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of seafood like lobster, scallops, or even a mix of different fish. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these stuffed peppers ahead of time. Simply assemble them, cover tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Let them come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can create a vegetarian version of this dish by skipping the seafood and increasing the amount of vegetables in the filling. Consider adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, corn, black beans, or tofu for a flavorful vegetarian option.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you want to add more heat to the dish, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the filling or incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and sharing these Tasty Seafood Filled Peppers with your loved ones. Don’t forget to experiment with different ingredients and cooking methods to tailor this dish to your preferences. Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or simply craving a delicious weeknight meal, these seafood stuffed peppers are sure to delight your taste buds.

Remember, cooking is all about creativity and making dishes your own. So have fun in the kitchen, and let the flavors of the sea and garden come alive in these delightful Tasty Seafood Filled Peppers. Bon appétit!