Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers

1. Prepare the Bell Peppers

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Rinse them under cold water and set aside.

2. Cook the Vegetables

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Prepare the Seafood Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, crab meat, cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.

4. Stuff the Peppers

1. Spoon the seafood mixture evenly into each of the bell peppers, packing it down gently.

5. Prepare the Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix together the shredded mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, and melted butter.

6. Top the Peppers

1. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the stuffed peppers.

7. Bake the Peppers

1. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.
2. Add about 1/4 inch of water to the bottom of the dish to help steam the peppers during baking.
3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
4. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the topping is golden brown.

8. Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the peppers cool slightly before serving.
2. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.

Tips for Success

• Fresh Seafood: Use the freshest seafood you can find for the best flavor.
• Even Cooking: Make sure to chop the shrimp into small pieces so they cook evenly with the other ingredients.
• Check for Doneness: The peppers should be tender but not mushy. Adjust the baking time if needed.

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some variations to try:

• Add Cheese: Mix in some shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese with the stuffing for an extra cheesy version.
• Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the stuffing for a spicy version.
• Different Grains: Substitute quinoa or couscous for the rice for a different texture.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve now mastered the art of making Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers. This detailed guide ensures that you have all the tips and tricks needed to create a delicious, gourmet, and impressive dish every time. Whether you’re serving these for a special dinner or enjoying them as a flavorful main course, these stuffed peppers are sure to be a hit.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy making these delightful stuffed peppers. Bon appétit!