Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers 

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bell Peppers:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Wash the bell peppers, then slice off the tops and remove the seeds and membranes inside. If the peppers are too tall to stand on their own, trim the bottoms slightly (just enough to create a stable base, but not so much that the filling can fall through).
• Place the peppers in a baking dish, standing up, and drizzle them lightly with olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then set aside.

2. Make the Seafood Stuffing:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked crab meat, chopped shrimp, cooked rice, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, and lemon juice (if using). Stir everything together until well combined. The cream cheese should help bind everything together, making a creamy, flavorful stuffing.
• Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a stronger flavor, feel free to add extra Old Bay seasoning or garlic powder.

3. Stuff the Peppers:

• Spoon the seafood mixture into each of the bell peppers, pressing down slightly to pack the stuffing in. Be sure to fill them generously but not overstuff, so the filling can cook evenly.
• If you have any extra cheese, sprinkle it on top of each stuffed pepper for a melty, golden finish.

4. Bake the Peppers:

• Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil to help the peppers cook evenly without drying out. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the stuffing is heated through.
• In the last 5 minutes of cooking, remove the foil and let the peppers continue to bake until the cheese on top is bubbly and slightly browned.

5. Serve and Garnish:

• Once the peppers are cooked and golden, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute before serving.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of additional lemon juice for brightness. Serve the peppers as a main dish, or pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers:

1. Use Fresh Seafood: While canned crab meat is a convenient option, using fresh crab meat will elevate the flavor of the dish. If possible, get your crab meat from a reputable source for the best taste. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before chopping to avoid excess moisture in the stuffing.
2. Customize the Filling: While crab and shrimp are the stars of this dish, you can easily customize the filling to your liking. Try adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor and texture. You could even mix in a bit of diced tomato or a handful of fresh herbs for added brightness.
3. Use Low-Carb Rice Substitutes: If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, consider swapping the rice for cauliflower rice or even a mixture of chopped zucchini or mushrooms. These alternatives will provide the same bulk without the carbs.
4. Make it Ahead: This dish can easily be prepared in advance. Stuff the peppers and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, simply bake as directed. You can also freeze the stuffed peppers before baking and cook them directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
5. Serve with a Side: While these stuffed peppers are filling on their own, they pair wonderfully with a light side salad, roasted vegetables, or even a creamy soup to round out the meal.

Why Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers Are a Winner:

1. Deliciously Indulgent: The combination of tender shrimp, sweet crab, and creamy cheese creates a rich, indulgent flavor that feels like a special treat. The stuffed peppers are full of seafood goodness, making each bite feel luxurious.
2. Visually Stunning: These stuffed peppers are not only delicious but also visually striking. The colorful bell peppers, filled with a perfectly seasoned seafood stuffing, make for an elegant presentation—ideal for dinner parties, family gatherings, or even a special weeknight meal.
3. Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish is not only quick to prepare, but it’s also great for meal prepping. The stuffed peppers hold up well in the fridge and can be reheated in the microwave or oven. They’re perfect for taking to work for lunch or making ahead for a busy weeknight.
4. Packed with Protein: With both shrimp and crab, these stuffed peppers are a great source of lean protein. They’re satisfying without being overly heavy, making them a great choice for a balanced, nutritious meal.

Conclusion:

Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers are the ultimate comfort food with a seafood twist. The tender, flavorful crab and shrimp filling is perfectly complemented by the sweetness of the bell peppers, while the creamy cheese adds richness and depth. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner for guests or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these stuffed peppers offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will make every bite a treat.

With their impressive presentation, ease of preparation, and versatility, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Try them today, and you’ll quickly see why this dish is a seafood lover’s dream come true!