⭐ Introduction
If you’re craving a seafood dish that feels comforting, colorful, and luxurious without being complicated, these Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers are the perfect choice. Bright, tender bell peppers are filled with a delicious mixture of crab, shrimp, aromatics, and spices — then baked until perfectly soft and savory.
This recipe brings together:
- Sweetness of bell peppers
- Juicy, tender shrimp
- Rich flavor of crab meat
- Aromatic onion and herbs
- Creamy, satisfying filling
It’s a show-stopping dish that looks fancy but is actually simple enough for everyday cooking. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this stuffed pepper recipe is sure to impress.
🧂 Ingredients
Below is a complete ingredient list including the ones you provided:
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Bell peppers (red, yellow, orange, or green) | 4 large | Main shell |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Sautéing |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium | Flavor base |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves | Aroma |
| Cooked shrimp, chopped | 1 cup | Seafood filling |
| Crab meat | 1 cup | Rich flavor |
| Cooked rice or breadcrumbs | 1 cup | Structure |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz | Creamy texture |
| Shredded mozzarella or cheddar | 1 cup | Topping |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Seasoning |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | Flavor |
| Paprika | ½ tsp | Color & mild heat |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Brightness |
| Parsley, chopped | 2 tbsp | Freshness |
(Ingredient variations included later.)
🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Bell Peppers
- Wash the peppers thoroughly.
- Slice off the tops and remove seeds and membranes.
- Brush lightly with olive oil.
- Place in a baking dish, open side up.
- Pre-bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to soften slightly.
This helps the peppers cook evenly later.
2️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics
In a skillet:
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until soft.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
The aroma starts building immediately.
3️⃣ Add Shrimp and Crab
Add the chopped shrimp and crab meat.
Stir gently so the seafood doesn’t break too much.
Cook for 2–3 minutes to heat everything through.
4️⃣ Add the Binder
Add:
- Cooked rice (or breadcrumbs)
- Cream cheese
- Salt, black pepper, paprika
- Lemon juice
Mix until everything becomes creamy and well combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
5️⃣ Stuff the Peppers
Remove pre-baked peppers from the oven.
Fill each pepper generously with the seafood mixture.
6️⃣ Add Cheese and Bake
Top each pepper with shredded cheese.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes or until:
- Cheese melts and bubbles
- Peppers become tender
- Filling is hot throughout
Finish with fresh parsley.
🤤 Why This Recipe Works So Well
- Bell peppers stay juicy and tender.
- Cream cheese adds irresistible creaminess.
- Shrimp + crab = luxury flavor.
- Simple ingredients build deep flavor.
- Works for dinner, parties, or weekly meal prep.
It’s comforting, colorful, and satisfying — all in one dish.
💡 Helpful Cooking Tips
- Use fresh seafood for best flavor, but canned crab also works.
- Pre-bake bell peppers to prevent them from being too firm.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp (becomes rubbery).
- For extra creaminess, add more cream cheese.
- For spicy flavor, add jalapeños or chili flakes.
- For low-carb, skip rice and add extra seafood.
🔄 Creative Variations
⭐ 1. Cajun-Style Stuffed Peppers
Add Cajun seasoning, paprika, and Andouille sausage.
⭐ 2. Low-Carb Keto Version
Replace rice with cauliflower rice.
⭐ 3. Italian Seafood Peppers
Add basil, tomato sauce, and parmesan.
⭐ 4. Spicy Shrimp-Only Version
Double the shrimp and skip crab.
⭐ 5. Creamy Alfredo Peppers
Add 2 tablespoons Alfredo sauce to the filling.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
Serve seafood stuffed bell peppers with:
- Garlic bread
- Green salad
- Steamed vegetables
- Mashed potatoes
- Lemon wedges
This makes an elegant and complete dinner.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container:
| Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3 days |
| Freezer | 1 month |
| Reheat | 15 minutes at 350°F |
Avoid microwaving too long — seafood dries out quickly.
📌 Nutrition (Approx. per stuffed pepper)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 270–330 |
| Protein | 20–24 g |
| Carbs | 8–12 g |
| Fat | 14–18 g |
Values vary based on cheese and rice amounts.
❓ FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes — just thaw and drain well.
Q: Do all bell pepper colors work?
Absolutely! Red and yellow are sweeter; green is more earthy.
Q: Can I make these ahead?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking.
Q: Can I skip cream cheese?
Yes, replace with sour cream or a bit of mayo.
🌟 Conclusion
Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers are the ultimate combination of seafood richness, vibrant vegetables, and creamy comfort. They’re colorful, filling, healthy, and incredibly satisfying — perfect for weeknight dinners or festive meals.
If you want a dish that tastes like it came from a seafood restaurant but is easy enough to make at home, this recipe is a must-try.
Simple ingredients → Amazing flavor!