Seafood Stuffed Garlic Bread

This irresistible seafood-stuffed bread combines succulent shrimp, creamy cheese, and aromatic garlic all tucked inside a crusty Italian loaf. The result is a show-stopping appetizer that disappears within minutes at any gathering.

I first created these bread bombs when unexpected guests announced they were stopping by. With just a loaf of day-old bread and some frozen shrimp, this recipe saved the evening and has since become my go-to appetizer for impromptu gatherings.

Ingredients

• Crusty Italian bread provides the perfect vessel with a sturdy exterior that crisps beautifully while maintaining a soft interior
• Fresh shrimp delivers sweet seafood flavor and substantial texture look for medium sized shrimp for best results
• Cream cheese creates a luscious binding agent that keeps everything moist choose full-fat for richest results
• Mozzarella cheese adds that satisfying stretch factor when pulled apart use freshly shredded for best melting
• Fresh parsley brightens the rich filling with color and herbaceous notes
• Minced garlic infuses the entire dish with aromatic flavor use fresh for most potent results
• Red pepper flakes provide customizable heat level adjust according to your preference

How To Make Crabby Shrimp Garlic Bread Bombs

Prepare the filling

Start by chopping the shrimp into bite-sized pieces approximately 1/4 inch in size. This ensures even cooking and allows the seafood flavor to distribute throughout every bite. Combine with softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and all seasonings until thoroughly incorporated. The mixture should be thick but spreadable.

Hollow the bread

Slice your Italian loaf horizontally, then carefully remove the soft interior, leaving about a 1/2-inch shell all around. Press gently to create a boat-like cavity. Save the removed bread for making breadcrumbs or croutons later.

Fill the bread

Spoon the seafood mixture evenly between both hollowed bread halves. Use the back of a spoon to press the filling into all crevices and create an even surface. This ensures consistent flavor in every bite.

Initial bake

Brush the exterior of both bread halves generously with melted butter, focusing on edges and crust. Wrap completely in foil, which traps steam to cook the filling while protecting the bread from burning. Bake at 190°C for exactly 15 minutes.

Final crisping

Unwrap the bread completely and return to the oven uncovered. This crucial 5-minute final bake develops a golden, crispy exterior while ensuring the filling is piping hot throughout.

Slice and serve

Allow to rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing into 2-inch portions using a sharp serrated knife. This brief rest period allows the filling to set slightly for cleaner slices.

My personal secret for these bread bombs is using wild-caught Gulf shrimp when available. The sweet, briny flavor makes an enormous difference in the final taste. My husband originally doubted the combination of seafood and bread, but now specifically requests these for game days and dinner parties.

Make-Ahead Magic

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility for preparation. You can completely assemble the bread bombs up to 24 hours in advance, wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. When ready to bake, simply unwrap, brush with butter, and proceed with the baking instructions. The flavors actually develop more complexity with time, making this an ideal prepare-ahead option for entertaining.

Serving Suggestions

These shrimp bread bombs pair wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside a light tomato soup. The bread bombs are at their absolute best when served warm, about 5 minutes after removing from the oven. If entertaining, consider cutting into smaller, two-bite pieces and serving with small cocktail forks for an elegant presentation.

Ingredient Variations

The versatility of this recipe allows for endless customization. Try substituting crabmeat for half the shrimp for a true seafood medley. Not a seafood fan? Replace shrimp with cooked Italian sausage and sun-dried tomatoes for a completely different flavor profile. The cheese component can be customized as well—sharp cheddar adds a tangy note, while pepper jack brings additional heat. For herbs, basil or dill can replace or complement the parsley depending on your preference.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make these bread bombs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the seafood filling and hollow out the bread up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

→ What can I substitute for shrimp?

Crabmeat works wonderfully as a substitute for shrimp, or you can use a combination of both for a seafood medley. For non-seafood options, consider using chopped chicken, mushrooms, or artichokes.

→ How do I know when the shrimp is fully cooked?

The shrimp will be fully cooked when they turn pink and opaque throughout. Since they're chopped small and baked inside the bread, they'll cook quickly during the baking process.

→ What sides pair well with these bread bombs?

These bread bombs pair beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light soup. For a complete meal, serve with a seafood bisque or light tomato soup.

→ Can I freeze these bread bombs?

Yes, you can freeze them either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. If freezing after baking, allow to cool completely, wrap individual portions, and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, add diced jalapeños to the filling, or incorporate a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to elevate the heat level to your preference.