Stuffed Seafood Soup Bread Bowl

For those who love indulgent comfort food with a coastal twist, the Stuffed Seafood Soup Bread Bowl is a showstopper. Picture this: creamy seafood chowder brimming with shrimp, crab, and scallops, nestled inside a warm, crusty bread bowl. This dish combines rich flavors and a hearty presentation, making it perfect for special occasions, family dinners, or simply when you crave a touch of seaside luxury.

Ingredients

• For the Soup:
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups seafood or chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup diced potatoes
  • 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 pound crab meat (lump or claw)
  • 1/2 pound scallops
  • 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• For the Bread Bowls:
  • 4 large round sourdough bread loaves
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the tops off the sourdough bread loaves and hollow out the centers, leaving enough bread to create sturdy bowls. Brush the insides lightly with olive oil and bake for 10 minutes to crisp up. Set aside.

Step 2: In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the seafood broth, ensuring no lumps remain. Add the milk and cream, stirring until the mixture is smooth.

Step 4: Add the diced potatoes, Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Stir in the shrimp, crab, and scallops. Cook for an additional 5–7 minutes until the seafood is cooked through and tender.

Step 6: Finish the soup with a squeeze of lemon juice and chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7: Ladle the seafood soup into the prepared bread bowls. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations

• Non-Dairy Version: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and milk for a dairy-free option.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
• Vegetable Boost: Include diced carrots, celery, or corn for added texture and flavor.
• Different Seafood: Swap in mussels, clams, or white fish to suit your taste preferences.

Cooking Note

For the freshest flavor, use high-quality seafood. If fresh isn’t available, frozen seafood works well but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the stuffed bread bowl with a simple green salad or roasted asparagus for a complete meal. For an extra indulgent touch, serve with a side of garlic butter dipping sauce for the bread bowl pieces.

Tips

• Crisping the bread bowls in the oven helps prevent them from becoming soggy when filled with soup.
• For a thicker chowder, mash a few potato pieces into the soup before adding the seafood.
• Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan for added flavor.

Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Including Bread Bowl)

Calories: 550
Protein: 32g
Sodium: 980mg

FAQs

Q: Can I make the soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare the soup a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving in bread bowls.

Q: Can I freeze the soup?
A: The seafood soup can be frozen, but avoid freezing the bread bowls as they may lose their texture.

Q: What’s the best type of bread for this recipe?
A: Sourdough bread is ideal due to its sturdy crust and ability to hold the soup without becoming soggy.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked seafood?
A: Yes, but add pre-cooked seafood in the last 2–3 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.

Conclusion

Stuffed Seafood Soup Bread Bowl is the ultimate comfort dish, combining the flavors of the ocean with the cozy warmth of bread. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself, this dish is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Once you try this creamy, savory delight, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Dive in and savor every spoonful!