Description
For the Seafood Bread:
1 large French baguette or Italian bread, halved lengthwise
1/2 lb lump crab meat
1/2 cup shrimp, cooked and chopped
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp butter, melted
1/2 tsp paprika (for garnish)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix together crab meat, shrimp, mayonnaise, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic, Old Bay seasoning, parsley, and lemon
juice. Stir until well combined.
Place the halved baguette on the baking sheet and brush with melted butter. Spread the seafood mixture evenly over the bread.
Sprinkle paprika on top and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes Kcal: 420 per serving Servings: 6 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Seafood Bread every time.
- Prep Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature. Chop the cooked shrimp into small, bite-sized pieces. Pick through the crab meat to check for any shell fragments.
- Mix the Filling: In your large bowl, combine the mayonnaise and softened cream cheese first, stirring until smooth. This creates the perfect creamy base. Then, add all remaining filling ingredients (crab, shrimp, cheeses, garlic, Old Bay, parsley, lemon juice) and fold together gently but thoroughly.
- Prepare the Bread: Slice your baguette evenly lengthwise. Place it cut-side-up on your parchment-lined sheet. Brush the melted butter generously over the entire exposed surface. This creates a barrier against sogginess and adds flavor.
- Assemble & Bake: Divide the seafood mixture evenly between the two bread halves, spreading it to the edges. A light sprinkle of paprika adds color. Bake on the middle rack for 15-18 minutes. Watch for the cheese to be fully melted and the edges of the bread to turn golden and crisp.
- Final Touch: Let the baked bread rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing. This allows the cheesy mixture to set slightly, making for cleaner slices.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish can be served in multiple ways. For a casual appetizer, slice it into 2-inch pieces. As a main course, pair it with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a cup of tomato bisque. For a brunch twist, add a poached egg on top. Garnish with extra fresh parsley, a squeeze of lemon, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.
How-to Summary
In short: Mix crab, shrimp, cheeses, and seasonings into a creamy filling. Spread it on buttered, halved baguette. Bake at 375°F until golden and bubbly. Slice and serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the bread completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 6 hours before baking. Add 2-3 extra minutes to the bake time if cooking from cold.
What are good crab substitutes? Imitation crab (surimi) works in a pinch. For a different flavor, well-drained canned tuna or flaked cooked white fish are also suitable.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat slices in a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid the microwave, as it will make the bread soggy.
Can I use a different type of bread? Absolutely. A ciabatta loaf or individual submarine rolls are excellent alternatives. Adjust baking time slightly based on size and thickness.
Is there a way to make this lighter? You can use light mayonnaise and cream cheese, and reduce the cheese amounts slightly. Adding finely diced celery or bell pepper can also increase volume without many calories.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold cream cheese: It won’t blend smoothly and will create lumps in your filling.
- Over-mixing the crab: Gently fold to maintain some texture and avoid a pasty consistency.
- Skipping the butter brush: This crucial step prevents a soggy bottom and adds flavor.
- Overloading the bread: Spread the mixture evenly but not too thickly, or the top may burn before the bread crisps.
- Not letting it rest: Slicing immediately will cause the cheesy topping to slide off.
Conclusion
This Seafood Bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that masterfully combines luxurious flavor with incredible ease. With its creamy, cheesy filling and crisp, buttery base, it’s perfect for everything from game day snacks to elegant party appetizers. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in under 30 minutes. Experiment with the serving suggestions and make it your own.
