Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers are loaded with flavor, combining the sweetness of seafood with savory, cheesy goodness. They’re easy to make, visually stunning, and ideal for a seafood lover’s dinner. The bell peppers act as a natural vessel, adding a pop of color and a slight crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, tender filling. Plus, you can make them ahead of time and bake just before serving!

Ingredients

For the Peppers:

4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Seafood Filling:

½ lb lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
½ lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
2 tablespoons butter
½ cup onion, finely chopped
½ cup celery, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
1 egg, beaten
½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

For Topping (optional):

Extra shredded cheese
Fresh parsley or chives

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Peppers:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to fit the peppers snugly.
Prep the Peppers: Rub the bell peppers with olive oil and season the insides lightly with salt and pepper. Place them in the baking dish, cut-side up. Bake for 10-12 minutes to soften slightly while you prepare the filling.

Make the Seafood Filling:

Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute. Remove from heat.
Combine the Filling: In a large bowl, mix together the crab meat, chopped shrimp, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, sour cream, beaten egg, shredded cheese, parsley, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, and salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Stuff and Bake:

Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the seafood mixture into the partially baked bell peppers, filling each one generously.
Top and Bake: Sprinkle the tops with a bit of extra cheese if desired. Return the stuffed peppers to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is hot and the tops are golden and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the peppers from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives before serving.

Enjoy!

These Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers are now ready to enjoy—rich, creamy, and packed with seafood flavor in every bite!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling for a spicy kick.
Low-Carb: almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a keto-friendly version.

Add Rice: Mix in ½ cup cooked rice for a heartier, more traditional stuffed pepper style.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Stuffed peppers can be frozen after baking. Let them cool completely, then wrap individually in foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use canned crab meat?

Yes, canned crab meat is a great substitute if fresh isn’t available. Just make sure to drain it well and check for shells.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Absolutely. The filling can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Stuff the peppers just before baking.

Do I need to pre-cook the shrimp?

No, the shrimp will cook in the oven while baking inside the peppers. Just make sure they’re chopped into small pieces.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or Parmesan for different flavor profiles.

Conclusion

Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers are a flavorful and elegant way to enjoy seafood in a classic dish. With their creamy filling, savory seasoning, and colorful presentation, they’re perfect for everything from weeknight meals to special occasions. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe is sure to be a seafood lover’s favorite!