If you love dishes that bring a burst of coastal flavors wrapped in vibrant, colorful vegetables, you are going to adore this Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe. It perfectly balances the sweet, tender bounty of the sea with melty cheeses and aromatic herbs, all nestled inside crisp, roasted bell peppers. Each bite offers a satisfying blend of creamy textures, savory seafood, and just the right amount of spice, making it a show-stopping meal for any occasion. Whether you’re serving a special family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s both elegant and comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an overhead view of various ingredients placed separately on a white marbled surface. There are eleven small white bowls arranged neatly, each containing different items: cooked white rice in two bowls, a small amount of butter, small cooked shrimp, olive oil, shredded cheese, finely chopped red onions, chopped garlic, and a mix of red and green spices. Beside the bowls, there is a lemon half and four bell peppers, two yellow and two red. The ingredients are bright in color and clearly visible, spread out evenly to show each item well. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe plays a crucial role, providing layers of flavor, texture, and color. The fresh bell peppers offer a sturdy yet tender vessel, while the combination of cheeses creates that irresistible creamy base binding the seafood. Aromatic seasonings like garlic and Old Bay elevate the dish to something truly memorable.

4 large bell peppers (any color): Choose peppers that are firm and vibrant to ensure they hold their shape during baking.
1 cup cooked crab meat, flaked: Fresh or well-drained canned crab provides sweet, delicate seafood flavor.
1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped: Adds texture and pairs beautifully with the crab for a harmonious seafood blend.
½ cup cream cheese, softened: Creates a luscious, creamy base that binds the stuffing together.
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly to add stretchy, gooey goodness in every bite.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Imparts a sharp, nutty undertone that deepens the flavor profile.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant pungency that wakes up the whole dish.
2 green onions, finely chopped: Adds a fresh, mild onion crunch that complements the seafood.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Offers a burst of herbaceous brightness and color as a finishing touch.
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: Essential spice mix for that classic seafood seasoning punch.
½ teaspoon paprika: Adds warmth and a touch of smoky flavor.
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who like a little heat and kick in their seafood stuffing.
Salt and pepper to taste: To enhance and balance all the flavors.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps roast the bell peppers to perfection and adds subtle richness.

How to Make Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), setting the stage for perfectly cooked peppers. Carefully cut off the tops of the bell peppers and scoop out all seeds and membranes to create a clean cavity for stuffing. Drizzle the outside of each pepper with olive oil to help them roast evenly and develop a slight caramelized edge, then nestle them upright in your baking dish, ready to be filled.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, blend the cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan until smooth and creamy, forming the indulgent base of your stuffing. Gently fold in the flaked crab meat and chopped shrimp, ensuring the seafood pieces stay delicate and distinct. Add in the minced garlic, green onions, chopped parsley, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper if using, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Combine everything with care, blending flavors without mashing the seafood.

Step 3: Stuff and Bake the Peppers

Generously spoon the seafood mixture into each bell pepper, packing them just enough to fill but not overflow too much during baking. Cover the entire baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 25 minutes to let the peppers soften and the filling meld together beautifully. Then, remove the foil and switch your oven to broil to crisp and brown the tops for an additional 3-5 minutes, adding that irresistible golden finish.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley atop your Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers, adding a lively green contrast and fresh herbal aroma. Let them cool just slightly before serving so every bite is warm and bursting with flavor, yet comfortable to enjoy. This final step elevates the dish to something truly inviting and festive.

How to Serve Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

The image shows a round white plate with eight stuffed pepper halves arranged in a circle on a white marbled surface. Each pepper half has a roasted red or yellow skin, filled with a brownish mixture topped with melted light beige cheese and small sprinkles of green herbs. Around the plate, there are three small white bowls with shredded cheese, chopped green herbs, and a reddish seasoning. A lemon cut in half and a pale blue cloth are also visible on the surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Beyond the fresh parsley, you can brighten the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a light drizzle of garlic butter for extra richness. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds just a pinch of heat to complement the creamy filling without overpowering it.

Side Dishes

Pair your stuffed peppers with a crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette or a side of garlic-roasted asparagus to add crunchy freshness and balance to the meal. Creamy mashed potatoes or a light pilaf also make excellent companions that soak up any delicious seafood juices.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning buffet or dinner party spread, arrange the stuffed peppers on a large platter garnished with lemon wedges and sprigs of fresh herbs. You can also serve the filling scooped beside roasted mini bell peppers for a bite-sized appetizer twist, perfect for guests to enjoy in casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, let the stuffed peppers cool completely before placing them into an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, preserving the freshness of the seafood and the texture of the peppers.

Freezing

These peppers freeze beautifully to enjoy later. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat your Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe, bake them covered at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. For that crispy top, uncover and broil for a couple of minutes at the end. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of seafood in this recipe?

Absolutely! While crab and shrimp are classic for this recipe, you can substitute or add lump lobster, scallops, or even crab sticks. Just make sure the seafood is cooked and drained before mixing.

Are there vegetarian alternatives for the stuffing?

Yes, you can replace the seafood with a combination of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, corn, and beans for a hearty, vegetarian version that still offers satisfying texture and flavor.

Can I prepare this dish without any cheese?

The cheeses are important for creaminess and binding, but if you need a dairy-free option, consider using vegan cream cheese and a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative, or add mashed avocado for richness.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level depends on whether you include the cayenne pepper. It’s optional and adjustable, so you can keep the dish mild or add a subtle kick to suit your taste.

What’s the best way to pick bell peppers for stuffing?

Choose firm, thick-walled bell peppers that can hold the filling without collapsing. Any color works, but red, yellow, or orange peppers tend to be sweeter and add gorgeous color to the plate.

Final Thoughts

Trying the Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is like inviting a burst of seaside sunshine to your dinner table. Easy enough for a weeknight treat yet impressive enough for company, this dish combines freshness, creaminess, and the perfect spice blend in every flavorful bite. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and share it with loved ones who will surely ask for seconds!