Let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish: crab and shrimp stuffed bell peppers! These vibrant, colorful peppers are like little treasure chests filled with a delicious mixture of fresh seafood, creamy goodness, and a hint of zest from lemon juice. The first time I made these, I was blown away by how easy they were and how quickly they disappeared at the dinner table! Trust me, the combination of sweet crab meat, tender shrimp, and rich cream cheese all nestled inside a tender bell pepper is simply heavenly. Every bite is a burst of flavor that will have you coming back for seconds! If you’re looking to impress your family or guests, this dish is a surefire hit.
Ingredients for Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these crab and shrimp stuffed bell peppers absolutely scrumptious! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 large bell peppers: Choose your favorite colors—red, green, yellow, or orange! Cut the tops off and remove the seeds to create your perfect stuffed vessels.
- 1 cup cooked crab meat: Fresh or canned, just make sure it’s tasty! This is the star of the dish.
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped: Use shrimp that’s been peeled and deveined; they add a lovely texture.
- 1 cup cooked rice: Any variety works! This helps bind everything together.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: This adds a creamy richness that makes every bite melt in your mouth.
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped: For a fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens the filling.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese: I love using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy topping.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: A splash of acidity to elevate the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Because garlic makes everything better!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out all the flavors in this delightful dish.
How to Prepare Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers
Preparing these crab and shrimp stuffed bell peppers is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time.
Prepping the Bell Peppers
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, grab those beautiful bell peppers and cut the tops off them, making sure to remove all the seeds inside. This creates the perfect little cups for your filling!
Mixing the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked crab meat, chopped shrimp, cooked rice, softened cream cheese, and chopped green onions. Add in your shredded cheese, lemon juice, garlic powder, and a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy—trust me, it smells amazing!
Stuffing the Peppers
Now for the fun part! Take each bell pepper and carefully stuff it with your delicious seafood filling, packing it in gently. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish, so they stay cozy while baking.
Baking Instructions
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and let those peppers bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the peppers are tender and the filling is bubbly and golden. Enjoy the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen!
Tips for Success
To make sure your crab and shrimp stuffed bell peppers turn out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t overstuff the peppers—leave a little room at the top to avoid spillage while baking. Also, remember to taste your filling before stuffing; adjust the seasoning as needed for that perfect flavor. If you want a little extra kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. Finally, let the peppers cool briefly before serving; this helps the filling set a bit and makes them easier to handle. You’ve got this!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to the nutritional value of these crab and shrimp stuffed bell peppers, keep in mind that it can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Generally, each stuffed pepper contains about 320 calories, 20g of protein, and 15g of fat. You’ll also get a good balance of carbs, with around 30g per serving. This information is a guideline and might change, so feel free to adjust according to your ingredients!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the crab and shrimp completely before mixing them into the filling. It’ll taste just as delicious!
What can I substitute for cream cheese? If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. They’ll still keep your filling creamy and tasty!
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the stuffed peppers and refrigerate them before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!
What else can I add to the filling? Feel free to get creative! Chopped spinach, diced tomatoes, or even some spices like paprika can enhance the flavor and texture of your filling.
Why You’ll Love Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of sweet crab, succulent shrimp, and creamy filling creates a taste explosion in every bite!
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and veggies, these stuffed peppers are a nutritious choice that won’t weigh you down.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the filling to suit your taste, whether you want to add more veggies or switch up the seafood.
- Visually Stunning: The vibrant colors of the peppers make for a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress your guests!
Variations on Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up these crab and shrimp stuffed bell peppers! For a spicy twist, try adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the filling. If you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors, toss in some chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a delicious twist. Want to go vegetarian? Substitute the seafood with black beans and corn, and add some diced bell peppers to the mix for extra crunch. You can even switch up the cheese—think pepper jack for a little heat or goat cheese for a tangy kick. The possibilities are endless, so let your imagination run wild!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your crab and shrimp stuffed bell peppers experience, consider pairing them with a light, refreshing salad. A simple mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors perfectly. For a heartier side, serve with garlic bread or crusty baguette slices to soak up any delicious juices. I also love adding a side of roasted vegetables; the caramelized sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory filling. And don’t forget a nice glass of white wine or a zesty sparkling water with lemon—it ties everything together beautifully! Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures!
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Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers: A Simple Joy!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Crab and shrimp stuffed bell peppers are a flavorful and satisfying dish. They combine fresh seafood with vibrant vegetables for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers
- 1 cup cooked crab meat
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a bowl, mix crab meat, shrimp, rice, cream cheese, green onions, cheese, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the seafood mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Use any color bell peppers.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- For extra flavor, add herbs like parsley or dill.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: crab and shrimp stuffed bell peppers
