Crabby Shrimp Garlic Bread Bombs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of garlic bread and seafood, then these Crabby Shrimp Garlic Bread Bombs are the ultimate treat! The crispy exterior of the crusty Italian bread pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy shrimp and cheese filling. The garlic adds a delicious aroma, and the red pepper flakes give a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the shrimp. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to elegant parties.

Ingredients

For the bread base:

• 1 loaf crusty Italian bread
• 60 ml unsalted butter, melted

For the seafood filling:

• 450 g fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 225 g cream cheese, softened
• 60 g mozzarella cheese, shredded

For flavor boosters:

• 15 g fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes, as desired

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the loaf of Italian bread into 1 to 1.5-inch thick slices. Using a spoon or your fingers, hollow out each slice of bread to create a well for the filling. Place the bread slices on a baking sheet.
2. Make the seafood filling: In a medium skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly. Once cooled, chop the shrimp into small pieces.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, garlic, fresh parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Assemble the bombs: Spoon the seafood mixture into each hollowed-out slice of bread, filling each well generously with the shrimp and cheese mixture.
5. Brush with butter: Brush the edges of the bread with the melted unsalted butter to enhance the golden, crispy crust.
6. Bake: Place the filled bread slices in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bread is crispy on the outside and the filling is warm and bubbly.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven, allow to cool for a minute, then serve immediately as an appetizer or snack. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add crab meat: For a true “crabby” twist, you can mix in some lump crab meat along with the shrimp for an even richer flavor.
• Spicy Version: If you like it spicy, you can add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the seafood mixture.
• Herb Variation: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, basil, or oregano for a unique flavor profile.
• Cheese Swap: Try swapping the mozzarella cheese for parmesan or cheddar cheese for a different cheesy taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Crabby Shrimp Garlic Bread Bombs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. You can also microwave them, though the crust will lose some of its crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

Can I use a different type of bread?

While crusty Italian bread works best, you can substitute it with other types of bread, such as French baguette, ciabatta, or even dinner rolls for smaller portions.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the shrimp and cheese filling up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply store it in the fridge, and assemble the garlic bread bombs when you’re ready to bake.

How do I know when the bread bombs are done?

The bread bombs are done when the edges of the bread are golden brown and crispy, and the filling is warm and bubbly.

Can I freeze the Crabby Shrimp Garlic Bread Bombs?

You can freeze the assembled but unbaked garlic bread bombs. To freeze, place them on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1 hour. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When ready to bake, cook them directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-7 minutes to the baking time.

Can I use light cream cheese?

Yes, you can use light cream cheese in this recipe, though it may result in a slightly less rich and creamy filling.

Can I make these garlic bread bombs vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the shrimp with mushrooms or a vegetable mixture of your choice. This will give you a savory, satisfying filling while keeping the flavor profile delicious.

What can I serve these garlic bread bombs with?

Crabby Shrimp Garlic Bread Bombs are perfect as an appetizer or snack. They can also be served alongside a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a dipping sauce like marinara or aioli.

How do I prevent the bread from becoming soggy?

Be sure to hollow out the bread thoroughly to allow the filling to sit on top, and make sure the shrimp are fully cooked and not too wet. You can also lightly toast the bread before adding the filling for added crispness.

Can I add other cheeses to the filling?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda, cream cheese, or cheddar for a different flavor. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well.

Conclusion

Crabby Shrimp Garlic Bread Bombs are a perfect combination of savory shrimp, creamy cheese, and crispy garlic bread. With a delightful mix of flavors and textures, they’re sure to become a favorite appetizer or snack for seafood lovers. Whether served at a gathering or as a weeknight treat, these flavorful bombs are always a hit!

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