What makes a perfect weeknight dinner? For me, it’s a quick and easy homemade recipe like this crab and shrimp stuffed bell peppers dish, loaded with succulent seafood and roasted to perfection. Save this idea for a family favorite meal that’s sure to impress, try it soon and enjoy the flavors of a delicious homemade weeknight dinner, Pin for later

crab and shrimp stuffed bell peppers recipe on a white platter with text overlay

Introduction

This crab and shrimp stuffed bell peppers recipe is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor, perfect for those looking to elevate their meal prep game or impress at a dinner party. By combining everyday ingredients like bell peppers, crab, shrimp, and a blend of cheeses, you can create a dish that’s not only visually stunning but also packed with a depth of flavors. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for a dish that looks and tastes like it was made by a professional chef. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a fan of spicy foods, or just someone who appreciates a good, hearty meal, this recipe has something for everyone.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of crab, shrimp, and cheese provides a rich, savory flavor that’s balanced by the sweetness of the bell peppers. Plus, all the ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive appearance, this dish is surprisingly straightforward to prepare. The steps are simple, and the ingredients require minimal processing before being assembled and baked.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The presentation of this dish, with its vibrant bell peppers and golden, melted cheese, is sure to impress. Yet, it requires less than an hour to prepare and cook, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this recipe include bell peppers (any color), jumbo lump crab meat, shrimp (fresh or frozen, thawed), onion, garlic, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, and a variety of spices including paprika, salt, and pepper. For practical substitutions, you can use different types of cheese or add other seafood like scallops for added variety. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you could substitute the crab and shrimp with roasted and chopped mushrooms or eggplant.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare your bell peppers by cutting off the tops, removing the seeds, and placing them in a baking dish. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they’re softened. Add the shrimp and cook until they’re pink and fully cooked. Set aside to cool.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the crab meat, cooked shrimp, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated. Stir in the breadcrumbs.
4. Step 4: Stuff each bell pepper with the crab and Monitor the peppers for tenderness and the filling for heated through. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.

Handy Tips

• When choosing bell peppers, any color will work, but red or yellow peppers will add a pop of color to your dish. Make sure to select peppers that are firm and have no signs of wrinkling.
• For added crunch, you can top the stuffed peppers with extra breadcrumbs or grated cheese before baking.
• To avoid overcooking, check the peppers regularly during the baking time. They should be tender but still crisp.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking the stuffed bell peppers is 375°F (190°C). The baking time will depend on the size of your peppers and your personal preference for tenderness, but as a general guideline, bake for 25-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into one of the peppers; it should slide in easily.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right texture is key to this dish. The bell peppers should be tender but still retain some crunch, while the filling should be heated through and the top layer of cheese or breadcrumbs should be golden and crispy. To enhance the crunch, ensure that your breadcrumbs are toasted before adding them to the filling, and don’t overbake the peppers.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle the peppers with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle with salt before baking.
• Consider using different seasonings in your filling, such as dried thyme or oregano, to give the dish a unique twist.
• To make cleanup easier, line your baking dish with parchment paper before adding the peppers.

Storage Tips

• Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the peppers before baking. Simply prepare the peppers up to the point of baking, then freeze. Bake frozen peppers at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until tender and heated through.
• When reheating, make sure the peppers are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re looking to give this dish as a gift, consider packaging the stuffed peppers in a decorative baking dish or individual ramekins. Wrap the dish in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and tie with a ribbon. You could also include a side of garlic bread or a salad for a complete meal. For a more personal touch, add a handwritten recipe card or a small bouquet of fresh herbs.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or some dried basil for an Italian twist.
• Creative toppings: In addition to breadcrumbs or cheese, consider topping your peppers with chopped nuts, seeds, or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute the crab and shrimp with other proteins like chicken or tofu for a non-seafood version. You could also use different types of cheese or add some chopped bell pepper to the filling for extra flavor.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your peppers are too soft, they may have been overbaked. Try reducing the baking time for your next batch. If the filling is too dry, add a bit more mayonnaise or cheese.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find jumbo lump crab meat, regular crab meat will work. For shrimp, you can use frozen and thawed shrimp as a substitute.
• Over/undercooking signs: Check your peppers regularly while they’re baking. If they’re starting to wrinkle, they’re likely overcooked. Undercooked peppers will be firm and may not have heated the filling through sufficiently.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking. Simply prepare them up to the point of baking, then freeze. Bake frozen peppers at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until tender and heated through.
• Is it gluten-free? This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance. However, always check the ingredients of your mayonnaise and any store-bought cheese or breadcrumbs to ensure they are gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe for a larger crowd. Just ensure you have enough baking dishes and adjust the baking time slightly if necessary, as more peppers may take a bit longer to cook through.

Conclusion

This crab and shrimp stuffed bell peppers recipe is a versatile and delicious dish that’s sure to impress. With its balance of flavors, ease of preparation, and stunning presentation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the process of creating something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is sure to become a favorite. So go ahead, get creative, and bon appétit!