Easy to prepare, visually appealing, and utterly delicious, Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers offer a refined yet comforting meal experience. Each vibrant bell pepper half is generously filled with a light, flavorful seafood stuffing, creating a unique and delightful way to savor your favorite oceanic tastes. This dish effortlessly combines elegance with an irresistible homemade touch.
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I adore seafood, but sometimes I crave something beyond the usual shrimp scampi or baked salmon. That’s where these incredible Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers come in! They offer all the rich, savory flavors of fresh seafood, even when I’m using ingredients I typically have on hand, like imitation crab and pre-cooked shrimp. Beyond their fantastic taste, these stuffed peppers present beautifully, making them perfect for impressing guests without the need for extensive culinary effort. You can keep just how easy they are to make our little secret!
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Easy Seafood Stuffed Peppers Recipe
- Visually Stunning & Delectably Flavorful: These bell peppers are not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes, making any dinner table more inviting.
- Effortless Entertaining: Prepare the savory seafood stuffing ahead of time, and dinner becomes a simple bake-and-serve affair, freeing you up to enjoy your evening.
- Economical & Superior Taste: Far more delicious and budget-friendly than pre-made options or restaurant versions, you control the quality and freshness.
- Customizable Comfort Food: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, these stuffed peppers offer a balanced and wholesome meal.
Understanding Stuffed Bell Peppers: A Culinary Classic
Stuffed bell peppers are a beloved dish in many cultures, celebrated for their versatility and hearty appeal. The concept of filling hollowed-out vegetables with a savory mixture dates back centuries, providing an ingenious way to combine grains, meats, and vegetables into a single, satisfying meal. Bell peppers, with their sturdy structure and naturally sweet flavor that mellows beautifully when baked, are an ideal choice for stuffing. They act as perfect edible bowls, holding a variety of fillings while infusing the dish with their unique peppery notes.
This particular recipe elevates the classic by incorporating a delightful seafood stuffing, moving beyond traditional meat or rice-based fillings. The combination of tender bell peppers with a rich, oceanic interior creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that is both comforting and sophisticated.
Ingredients for the Perfect Seafood Stuffed Peppers
Crafting these delicious seafood stuffed bell peppers begins with selecting quality ingredients. While bell peppers are the star, the rich, flavorful stuffing truly brings this dish to life. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why each component is essential:
- Bell Peppers: You’ll need 2 large bell peppers, ideally red, which offer a sweeter flavor that beautifully complements the seafood. However, any color—yellow, orange, or even green—will work wonderfully, each contributing its own subtle taste profile. We’ll cut them in half lengthwise and remove the seeds to create perfect boats for the stuffing.
- Cooked Rice: About ½ cup of cooked rice (white or brown) provides a satisfying base and helps bind the stuffing together. It adds a lovely texture and makes the dish more filling.
- Stuffing Mix: ½ cup of your favorite stuffing mix (such as chicken-flavored Stove Top) adds a comforting, herbaceous depth and additional texture to the seafood mixture. For a gluten-free version, simply opt for a gluten-free stuffing mix.
- Butter: ¼ cup of butter, divided, is used for sautéing the aromatics and then dotted on top of the stuffed peppers for richness and to encourage beautiful browning. Salted or unsalted butter works fine; adjust salt accordingly.
- Diced Celery: ½ cup, diced small. Celery provides a refreshing crunch and aromatic flavor that is foundational to many classic stuffing recipes.
- Diced Onion: ½ cup, diced small. Onion adds a sweet and savory base to the stuffing, enhancing its overall flavor profile once softened.
- Diced Red Bell Pepper: ¼ cup, diced small. While your main peppers are the vessel, a bit of diced red bell pepper in the stuffing adds an extra layer of sweetness and color, complementing the seafood.
- Minced Garlic: 1 clove, minced. Fresh garlic is crucial for a pungent, aromatic kick that elevates all the other flavors in the stuffing.
- Cream Cheese: 1 tablespoon. A touch of cream cheese adds a creamy texture and a subtle tang, helping to bind the stuffing and make it incredibly moist and luxurious.
- Baby Shrimp: 4 ounces of pre-cooked baby shrimp (also known as salad shrimp). These are perfect because they are small, already cooked, shelled, and deveined, saving you prep time. See notes below on selecting shrimp.
- Imitation Crab Meat: 2 ounces, flaked. Imitation crab offers a sweet, delicate flavor and flaky texture that mimics real crab at a more accessible price point. You can, of course, splurge on real lump crab meat for an even richer taste.
- Chopped Fresh Dill: 1 tablespoon. Dill is a quintessential herb for seafood, lending a bright, slightly anise-like freshness that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the crab and shrimp.
- Old Bay Seasoning: 1 teaspoon. This classic seafood seasoning is a must-have, providing a unique blend of spices that adds a signature savory, zesty kick.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley: 1 teaspoon. Parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a vibrant green color, brightening the entire dish.
- Chicken Broth (or Seafood Broth/Stock): 2 tablespoons. Broth helps moisten the stuffing mix and allows all the flavors to meld beautifully during cooking. Seafood broth will intensify the oceanic flavor, but chicken broth is a great pantry staple alternative.
Choosing the Right Bell Peppers
While any color bell pepper can be used, red, yellow, and orange bell peppers are generally sweeter and tend to soften nicely, developing a deeper flavor during baking. Green bell peppers, being less ripe, have a more robust, slightly bitter taste that some prefer. Opt for firm, blemish-free peppers of a similar size to ensure even cooking.
Selecting Your Seafood: Shrimp and Crab
For this recipe, we specifically use pre-cooked baby shrimp or salad shrimp. This is crucial because raw seafood would be difficult to cook thoroughly within the bell pepper without overcooking the pepper itself. Baby shrimp are already shelled, deveined, and ready to use, minimizing your prep time. If baby shrimp aren’t available, purchase small, pre-cooked, shelled, and deveined shrimp, then chop them into small pieces to ensure they blend well with the other stuffing ingredients.
Regarding crab, imitation crab meat is a convenient and cost-effective choice that still delivers a pleasant seafood flavor and texture. It’s important to flake it well to distribute it evenly throughout the stuffing. If you prefer to use real crab meat, fresh lump crab meat will provide a more intense, authentic flavor and a luxurious texture. Ensure it is picked clean of any shell fragments before adding it to the mixture.
Essential Stuffing Binders & Flavor Enhancers
The combination of cooked rice and a savory stuffing mix forms the backbone of our seafood filling. The rice provides substance and a pleasant chewiness, while the stuffing mix adds a complex blend of herbs and spices, mimicking a traditional dressing. Cream cheese serves as a wonderful emulsifier, creating a rich, creamy consistency that keeps the stuffing moist and flavorful. Finally, fresh herbs like dill and parsley, along with the iconic Old Bay seasoning, infuse the entire dish with bright, aromatic notes that scream “seafood delight.”
How To Make Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these elegant and flavorful Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers is simpler than you might think. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a perfectly cooked, delicious meal that’s sure to impress.
Preparing the Savory Seafood Stuffing:
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced celery, onion, diced red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté these vegetables for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and fragrant. The key is to soften them without browning too much, allowing their natural sweetness to develop.
- Melt in the Cream Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the tablespoon of cream cheese until it has completely melted and is smoothly incorporated with the sautéed vegetables, creating a creamy base.
- Combine Stuffing Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed vegetable mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the cooked rice, stuffing mix, imitation crab (or real crab), baby shrimp, Old Bay seasoning, fresh dill, and fresh parsley. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined and the seafood is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Moisten with Broth: Gradually add the chicken broth (or seafood stock) to the stuffing mixture, starting with 2 tablespoons. Mix well, ensuring the stuffing cubes from the mix begin to soften. If the mixture still feels too dry and crumbly, add an additional tablespoon of broth at a time until it reaches a moist, pliable consistency. Avoid over-saturating; the vegetables and seafood will release more moisture during baking.
Assembling and Baking the Stuffed Peppers:
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Prep the Bell Peppers: Carefully cut the bell peppers in half lengthwise, from the stem to the tip. Use a spoon or your hands to scoop out and remove all the seeds and membranes. This creates clean, even cavities for the stuffing.
- Stuff the Peppers: Arrange the halved bell peppers on the prepared baking sheet. Using a spoon, generously fill each bell pepper half with about ¾ cup of the seafood stuffing. Do not pack the stuffing too tightly, as this can make it dense. Instead, gently press it in and allow it to mound attractively over the top of each pepper.
- Add Final Touches & Bake: Dot the top of each stuffed bell pepper with ½ tablespoon of the remaining butter. This will add extra richness and help the topping turn golden brown. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are fork-tender and the stuffing is heated through and slightly golden on top. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of your bell peppers.
- Serve and Enjoy!: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Allow the stuffed peppers to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
Chef Jenn’s Expert Tips for Stuffed Pepper Perfection
- Strategize Your Prep Time: To simplify dinner on a busy night, prepare the seafood stuffing mix a day in advance. You can even stuff the peppers and store them in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. This significantly reduces active cooking time when you’re ready to serve.
- Avoid Over-Packing: When filling your bell peppers, resist the urge to compress the stuffing tightly. A loosely packed stuffing allows for better air circulation during baking, resulting in a lighter, more tender texture. If the stuffing mounds over the top, that’s perfectly fine—it creates a lovely rustic presentation and ensures every bite is flavorful.
- Monitor Pepper Tenderness: Since the seafood and most of the stuffing ingredients are already cooked, the primary goal during baking is to heat the stuffing through and tenderize the bell peppers. Keep an eye on the peppers; you want them to be fork-tender but still hold their shape. Overcooking can make the peppers mushy.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before stuffing, always taste a small amount of your seafood mixture. This is your chance to adjust the salt, pepper, or Old Bay seasoning to your preference.
- Use a Roasting Pan if Needed: If your peppers tend to roll or don’t sit flat on the baking sheet, consider using a roasting pan or a baking dish with slightly higher sides. You can even place a small amount of water at the bottom of the pan to help steam the peppers and keep them moist.
Make It A Meal: Complementary Side Dishes
Elevate your Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers into a complete and unforgettable meal with these delightful side dish suggestions:
- Smoked Asparagus or Steamed Asparagus: The crisp texture and earthy flavor of asparagus perfectly complement the rich seafood. Smoking adds a lovely depth, while simple steaming keeps it light and fresh.
- Au Gratin Potato Stacks: For a truly decadent pairing, these creamy, cheesy potato stacks offer a luxurious counterpoint to the stuffed peppers. Their rich flavor and tender texture are a match made in heaven.
- Spinach, Asparagus & Fennel Salad: If you prefer to keep things lighter, a fresh and vibrant salad with a tangy vinaigrette is an excellent choice. The crispness of spinach and fennel provides a wonderful contrast.
- Grilled Vegetables: A medley of seasonal grilled vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onion adds a smoky char and natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with seafood.
- Garlic Bread or Crusty Ciabatta: A warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any delicious juices from the peppers and stuffing.
- Lemon Risotto: A creamy lemon risotto can add an elegant and bright side that harmonizes beautifully with the seafood flavors.
Variations and Customizations for Your Stuffed Peppers
One of the best things about stuffed bell peppers is their adaptability. Feel free to get creative with these delicious variations:
- Cheese Please: Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Parmesan, mozzarella, or a sharp cheddar cheese over the top of the stuffing before baking for an extra layer of flavor and a golden, bubbly crust.
- Spice It Up: For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sautéed vegetables or mix in some finely diced jalapeño with the stuffing. A dash of hot sauce in the stuffing can also provide a pleasant kick.
- Alternative Seafood: While shrimp and crab are fantastic, consider other pre-cooked seafood options like flaked white fish (cod, haddock), or even small scallops chopped into pieces. A combination of different seafoods can add complexity.
- Grain Alternatives: Instead of white rice, use brown rice for more fiber, or try quinoa for a protein boost and different texture. For a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice can also be used.
- Vegetable Boost: Enhance the nutritional value and texture by adding other finely diced vegetables to the stuffing, such as mushrooms, corn, or peas. Sauté them with the celery and onion.
- Herb Garden Freshness: Experiment with different fresh herbs. Thyme, tarragon, or chives can offer interesting flavor profiles that pair well with seafood.
Make Ahead & Storage Tips
These Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers are excellent for meal prepping and can be easily stored for future enjoyment:
- Prepare Ahead: The stuffing can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply stuff the peppers and proceed with the recipe. You can also stuff the peppers a day ahead and keep them covered in the fridge, ready to pop into the oven.
- Refrigeration: Leftover stuffed bell peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Stuffed bell peppers freeze beautifully. Once baked and cooled, wrap individual peppers tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen peppers in the refrigerator overnight. Then, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions About Seafood Stuffed Peppers
Yes, absolutely! The seafood stuffing can be prepared in advance (and even frozen), simplifying your dinner routine. Then, all you need to do is stuff the bell peppers and bake them until tender and heated through.
Yes, the entire bell pepper is meant to be eaten! The baking process tenderizes the pepper, making it soft and delicious. The only part you typically don’t eat is the very tip of the stem, if left attached.
As written, this recipe is not gluten-free because it uses a standard bread-based stuffing mix. However, it can easily be made gluten-free by swapping out the regular stuffing mix for a certified gluten-free brand.
It is strongly recommended to use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe. If you use raw shrimp, it might not cook thoroughly within the stuffing before the bell peppers become too soft, or it could lead to uneven cooking. If you must use fresh shrimp, sauté it briefly before adding it to the stuffing mixture to ensure it is partially cooked.
Red bell peppers are often preferred for their sweetness, which pairs wonderfully with seafood. However, yellow and orange peppers are also great choices. Green bell peppers have a slightly more bitter, earthy flavor that some people enjoy.
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Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers
Filled with a savory, seafood stuffing, these Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers are easy and impressive – not to mention delicious!
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: bell peppers, crab, easy seafood recipe, seafood dressing, seafood stuffed bell peppers, shrimp
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 319 kcal
Author: Chef Jenn
Ingredients
- 2 bell peppers (sliced and seeds removed)
- 1/2 cup cooked white rice
- 1/2 cup stuffing mix (e.g., Stove Top)
- 1/4 cup butter (divided)
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese
- 4 ounces baby shrimp (pre-cooked)
- 2 ounces imitation crab meat (flaked)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chicken broth (or seafood broth/stock)
Instructions
- Saute the diced celery, onion, red bell pepper, and garlic in 2 tablespoons of butter until the veggies are tender, about 6 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the cream cheese until it has melted and is smoothly incorporated.
- Add the sautéed vegetable mixture to a medium-sized bowl. Add the cooked rice, stuffing mix, imitation crab, shrimp, Old Bay, dill, and parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Add the chicken broth and mix until the stuffing cubes have just started to soften. Mix well. If your mixture still seems hard and dry, add 1 tablespoon of broth at a time until the mixture begins to soften to a moist consistency.
- Stuff each bell pepper half with about 3/4 cup of the seafood stuffing, pressing it in lightly and allowing it to mound over the top.
- Add 1/2 tablespoon of the remaining butter to the top of each stuffed bell pepper. Bake them in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the stuffing is heated through and the peppers are fork-tender.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious meal!
Nutrition
Serving: 1 half pepper | Calories: 319kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 72mg | Sodium: 800mg | Potassium: 332mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 2433IU | Vitamin C: 86mg | Calcium: 75mg | Iron: 2mg
A Note on Nutritional Information
Nutritional information for this recipe is provided as a courtesy and is calculated based on available online ingredient information. It is only an approximate value. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site cannot be guaranteed, as actual values may vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.
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