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Delicious Hot Seafood Dip Bread

Category: Quick and Easy Appetizers

Combine shrimp, crab, shredded cheese, and seasonings, stuff into a hollowed-out bread bowl, bake until golden, and serve warm with bread pieces for dipping.
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Emily Watson
By Emily Watson Emily Watson
Last updated on Mon, 10 Mar 2025 03:26:14 GMT
Seafood Dip in Bread Bowl Pin
Seafood Dip in Bread Bowl | thefamilycooks.com

A decadent seafood dip featuring succulent shrimp and premium crab meat in a rich, cheesy base, all served in a fresh sourdough bread bowl. This impressive yet easy appetizer elevates any gathering from casual to elegant while remaining surprisingly simple to prepare.

This recipe emerged from a memorable holiday party where it vanished within minutes. Since then, it's become my most requested appetizer, earning a permanent spot in my entertaining menu.

Key Components

  • Sourdough Bread: Select a firm, fresh loaf
  • Crab Meat: Premium lump crab is worth the splurge
  • Shrimp: Either fresh or thawed work perfectly
  • Cream Cheese: Room temperature for smooth blending
  • Old Bay Seasoning: The classic seafood enhancer
  • Scallions: For bright flavor and garnish

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1:
Choose sturdy bread that will hold shape.
Step 2:
Make precise top cut for serving.
Step 3:
Hollow carefully to maintain structure.
Step 4:
Ensure seafood is thoroughly dried.
Step 5:
Use properly softened cream cheese.
Step 6:
Mix base until perfectly blended.
Step 7:
Incorporate seafood without breaking pieces.
Step 8:
Fill bowl completely but gently.
Step 9:
Monitor browning carefully.
Step 10:
Cool slightly before serving.
Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl Pin
Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl | thefamilycooks.com

A lifetime of coastal cooking taught me that quality seafood shines with minimal interference. This recipe showcases that philosophy perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

  • Use warming stand with candles
  • Create circular bread display
  • Offer multiple dipping options
  • Supply individual serving pieces
  • Prepare extra filling

Years of family gatherings reinforced that presentation elevates any dish. This elegant serving style transforms a simple dip into a memorable centerpiece.

Baking Guidelines

  • Look for golden surface
  • Check edges for bubbling
  • Serve at optimal temperature
  • Avoid overheating
  • Plan for refills

Advance Preparation

  • Mix dip one day ahead
  • Prepare bread early
  • Keep ingredients separate
  • Combine before baking
  • Stock extra bread
Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl Pin
Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl | thefamilycooks.com

Accompaniments

  • Fresh vegetable crudités
  • Crusty bread rounds
  • Artisanal crackers
  • Fresh herb garnish
  • Citrus wedges

From casual gatherings to elegant affairs, this seafood bread bowl consistently delivers satisfaction. It embodies the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication, bringing warmth to any occasion.

Seafood Cheese Dip Bowl

A creamy mix of crab and shrimp baked until bubbly in a bread bowl. A guaranteed hit for your next party.

Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
25 mins
Total Time
40 mins
By Emily Watson: Emily Watson

Recipe Category: Appetizers

Skill Level: Intermediate

Cuisine Type: American

Makes: 6 Serves

Dietary Preferences: ~

What You’ll Need

→ Base

01 1 big, crispy sourdough bread bowl

→ Seafood Mix

02 ½ pound of tender shrimp, cooked and chopped into chunks
03 ½ pound of fresh, premium crab meat

→ Creamy Base

04 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, shredded freshly
05 ½ cup of soft, creamy cream cheese
06 ⅓ cup of mayonnaise made with real ingredients

→ Seasonings & Aromatics

07 ¼ cup of finely diced fresh green onions
08 2 large garlic cloves, minced up
09 1 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning for a signature taste
10 ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika to add depth
11 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

Switch your oven on and heat it to 375°F (190°C).

Step 02

Cut out the middle of your sourdough loaf carefully. Leave enough edge to hold the stuffing. Don’t toss those bread chunks you removed – we’ll use them as snacks to dip!

Step 03

Grab a mixing bowl and combine cream cheese, mayo, shredded mozzarella, green onions, garlic, Old Bay, smoked paprika, and lemon juice. Stir it all until smooth.

Step 04

Fold in your shrimp pieces and crab meat into the creamy mix. Do it lightly so your seafood stays chunky and doesn’t fall apart.

Step 05

Spoon the seafood mixture into the sourdough bowl, spreading it evenly. Put the bowl onto a baking tray and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s hot and golden.

Step 06

Take it out of the oven, sprinkle a little more green onion on top, and serve while hot. Use those leftover bread pieces as dipping bites.

Additional Notes

  1. You can prepare the filling ahead of time – up to a day early. Just keep it separate from the bread until baking.
  2. Smaller bread bowls make perfect single servings for parties or gatherings.
  3. Prefer a casserole? You can bake the filling in a dish instead of a bread bowl.

Essential Tools

  • A sharp knife for cutting the bread
  • One large bowl for mixing everything together
  • A baking tray
  • Measuring tools for cups and teaspoons

Allergen Information

Check each ingredient for potential allergens and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
  • Has wheat (the sourdough bread)
  • Includes dairy (cheese and cream cheese)
  • Contains shellfish (crab and shrimp)
  • Includes eggs (in the mayonnaise)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

These details are for guidance only and don't replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 350
  • Fats: 24 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Proteins: 22 g