Have you ever had one of those days where you just crave something comforting, cheesy, and utterly delicious? That’s exactly how these crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs were born. Picture this: warm, golden garlic bread, bursting with a creamy, savory filling of sweet crab and juicy shrimp. The first time I made these, my family went absolutely wild! My youngest declared them “the best thing you’ve ever made, Mom!” and promptly devoured three. Even my picky teenager, who usually turns up his nose at anything seafood-related, was sneaking bites straight from the baking sheet.
This recipe came about because I was trying to recreate a restaurant appetizer we all loved, but make it easier and more budget-friendly. Let’s face it, going out to eat can be expensive, especially with a growing family. These crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs are the perfect solution: they’re simple to make, use ingredients you can easily find at the grocery store, and are way cheaper than ordering a plate of appetizers.
I know what you might be thinking: “Sounds delicious, but complicated!” Trust me, it’s not. I’m all about simple recipes that deliver big flavor, and this one definitely fits the bill. We’ve all been there, scrolling through Pinterest, finding a recipe that looks amazing, only to realize it requires a million ingredients and techniques that would take all day. I get it! That’s why this recipe is designed for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. It’s designed for real life. The goal is to get dinner on the table without sacrificing taste. Plus, the crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs are always a hit.
One of the things I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is. Don’t have crab on hand? No problem, you can add more shrimp, use imitation crab meat, or even swap in some cooked chicken. Want to spice things up? A pinch of red pepper flakes will do the trick. These crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs are so versatile that you can easily adapt them to your family’s preferences.
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a fun twist on garlic bread, you absolutely have to try these. The combination of creamy, savory, and garlicky flavors is simply irresistible. Get ready to wow your family and friends with these crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs! Grab your apron, and let’s get started – I promise you won’t regret it!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delectable little bombs. I’ve included some notes and substitutions based on what works best for my family.
- 1 loaf (16 ounces) of Italian bread, cut into 1-inch cubes: I usually go for a bakery loaf if I have time, but a good quality store-bought loaf works just as well. The key is to make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart. For a gluten-free option, feel free to use your favorite gluten-free bread, though it might change the texture slightly.
- 8 ounces cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined, chopped: I prefer to use medium-sized shrimp because they’re easier to chop, but any size will work. You can even use frozen shrimp – just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before chopping.
- 4 ounces imitation crab meat, flaked: This is a budget-friendly option that adds a nice seafood flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute with real crab meat, but it will definitely increase the cost.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: Make sure the cream cheese is really soft, otherwise it will be hard to mix. I usually leave it out on the counter for about an hour before I start cooking. Light cream cheese also works if you’re looking to cut back on fat.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Use your favorite brand of mayonnaise. I prefer a full-fat mayonnaise for the best flavor and texture, but light mayonnaise will also work.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the seafood perfectly. You can also use Romano cheese if you prefer.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds a pop of freshness and color. If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can use dried parsley, but use only about 1 tablespoon since the flavor is more concentrated.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must for that authentic garlic bread flavor. I like to use a garlic press for easy mincing.
- 1/4 cup melted butter: Use unsalted butter so you can control the amount of salt in the recipe. You can also use olive oil if you prefer a healthier option, although it will alter the flavor slightly.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For an extra boost of garlic flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adjust to taste.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that gooey, cheesy topping that everyone loves. Provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses would also be delicious. The crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs simply aren’t the same without a generous layer of cheese!
Remember to adjust the seasonings to your liking. And if you have picky eaters, feel free to leave out the crab or add extra shrimp. Cooking should be fun and adaptable! These crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs are so delicious, they’re a family favorite that I hope will become one for you, too.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get down to the fun part: making these incredible crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs! I’m going to walk you through each step like I’m right there in the kitchen with you.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is important! You want the bread to get nice and golden without burning the filling.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, flaked imitation crab meat, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. Don’t overmix, though, or the filling will become too runny. Taste the filling and adjust the seasonings as needed. I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick, but that’s totally optional.
- In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. This is your garlic butter mixture that will make the bread so irresistible.
- Now, for the assembly. Dip each bread cube into the garlic butter mixture, making sure to coat all sides. This is where the magic happens! The garlic butter soaks into the bread and creates that amazing flavor.
- Place the garlic butter-coated bread cubes onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze!
- Using a small spoon or your fingers, create a small well in the center of each bread cube. This is where you’ll stuff the filling. Be careful not to poke all the way through the bread.
- Spoon the shrimp and crab mixture into the wells of each bread cube. Don’t be shy! You want each bite to be packed with flavor.
- Top each bread cube with shredded mozzarella cheese. The cheese will melt and create a gooey, delicious topping.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them, as oven times can vary. You want the crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs to be perfectly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but trust me, they’re even better when they’ve cooled down a bit.
Tip: If you want to make these ahead of time, you can assemble them up to the point of baking and then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time. I often do this when I’m having guests over because it’s one less thing to worry about on the day of the party. These crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs are perfect for entertaining!
My family’s reaction: When I first made these, my kids were hovering around the oven, eager to try them. As soon as they came out, they grabbed a few and devoured them in seconds. My husband declared them “restaurant-worthy” and asked me to make them again the following week.
What not to do: One time, I tried to use stale bread, thinking it would hold the filling better. Big mistake! The bread was too dry and didn’t absorb the garlic butter properly. Use fresh bread for the best results.
And there you have it! Delicious, easy-to-make crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs that are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!
Serving Ideas
So, you’ve got these amazing crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs fresh out of the oven. Now what? Here are some ideas on how to serve them and make the most of this delicious appetizer (or even a light meal!).
- As an appetizer: These are perfect for parties, game nights, or any casual get-together. Arrange them on a platter and watch them disappear! I often serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or a creamy garlic aioli. The crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- As a side dish: Serve them alongside a simple salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal. They pair well with tomato soup, clam chowder, or a light vinaigrette salad.
- For a fun family dinner: Make a big batch and serve them with a side of steamed vegetables or a fruit salad. It’s a great way to get your kids to eat their veggies! My kids love dipping them in ranch dressing.
- Leftover transformation: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), you can chop them up and add them to an omelet or frittata for a delicious breakfast. You can also toss them into a salad for an extra boost of flavor. The flavor of these crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs will transform a regular omelet into something special!
- Presentation matters: A simple garnish of fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can make these look even more appealing. I also like to serve them on a wooden board for a rustic touch.
- Occasions: I usually make these for special occasions like birthdays, holidays, or when we have friends over. They’re also a great option for potlucks because they’re easy to transport and everyone loves them. These crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs are a festive and delicious treat.
- Portion sizes: Depending on how hungry everyone is, I usually estimate about 3-4 bread bombs per person. But let’s be honest, most people end up eating more!
- Family feedback: My family raves about these every time I make them. They love the combination of the garlicky bread, the creamy filling, and the gooey cheese. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite!
No matter how you choose to serve them, these crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs are sure to be a hit. They’re easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. So go ahead, give them a try and let me know what you think!
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about making these crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs. I’ve gathered these from my own experience and from questions friends and family have asked me over time.
Q: Can I use real crab meat instead of imitation crab meat?
A: Absolutely! Real crab meat will definitely add a richer flavor. Just be aware that it will also increase the cost of the recipe. If you do use real crab meat, make sure to pick through it carefully to remove any shells.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the bread bombs up to the point of baking and then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I freeze these?
A: I wouldn’t recommend freezing them after they’ve been baked, as the texture of the bread and filling might change. However, you can freeze the unbaked bread bombs. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, you can bake the frozen crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs directly from frozen, but you’ll need to add extra baking time.
Q: What if I don’t have Italian bread? Can I use something else?
A: Yes, you can use other types of bread, such as French bread, sourdough, or even dinner rolls. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the filling.
Q: Can I make these vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can easily make these vegetarian by leaving out the shrimp and crab and adding more vegetables. Some good options would be sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or artichoke hearts. You could also add some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor. The crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs can easily be adapted to suit any dietary need!
Q: What if I don’t have cream cheese? Can I substitute something else?
A: You can substitute the cream cheese with ricotta cheese or mascarpone cheese. These will give a similar creamy texture.
Q: Can I add other seasonings or spices?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. Some good options would be red pepper flakes, oregano, basil, or garlic salt.
Q: What if I don’t have a garlic press?
A: If you don’t have a garlic press, you can mince the garlic by hand using a sharp knife. Just make sure to mince it very finely so it distributes evenly throughout the filling.
Q: My filling is too runny. What did I do wrong?
A: The most common cause of a runny filling is overmixing. Be careful not to overmix the filling, as this can cause the cream cheese to break down.
I hope these FAQs have been helpful! Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun. Don’t be afraid to try new things and adjust the recipe to your liking. These crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs are a great base for creating your own unique variations.
Conclusion
This crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs recipe isn’t just about the ingredients and steps; it’s about the memories created while making and sharing it. Every time I bake these, I think of my grandmother, who taught me the importance of simple, heartfelt cooking. This recipe reminds me of her warm kitchen and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. It’s one of the many reasons I love to create recipes, and share them with you.
I really hope you give this recipe a try! They’re perfect for so many different occasions, and I’m confident that you and your family will love them. These crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs are sure to become a family favorite.
Here are a few final tips to ensure your crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs are a smashing success:
- Don’t overbake the bread: Keep a close eye on the bread as it bakes to prevent it from becoming too dry.
- Use good quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the flavor!
- Get creative with the filling: Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, such as chopped vegetables, different types of cheese, or your favorite herbs.
One variation my family enjoys is adding a little bit of Old Bay seasoning to the filling. It gives the crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs a delicious, zesty flavor. Another fun twist is to use mini croissants instead of bread cubes for an extra flaky and buttery treat.
I truly hope you enjoy making and eating these crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs as much as my family and I do. Don’t hesitate to leave a comment below and let me know how they turn out! And if you make any creative variations, I’d love to hear about them. Happy cooking!
Remember, the most important ingredient in any recipe is love, so pour your heart into it and enjoy the process. I know your family will love these crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs!
Easy Crabby Shrimp-Stuffed Garlic Bread Bombs
These irresistible garlic bread bombs are filled with a creamy, flavorful mixture of crab and shrimp. Perfect as an appetizer or a fun, easy dinner!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined, chopped
- 8 ounces imitation crab meat, shredded
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (16 ounce) package refrigerated biscuit dough
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, imitation crab meat, cream cheese, mayonnaise, parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
- Separate the biscuit dough into individual biscuits.
- Flatten each biscuit slightly. Place a spoonful of the crab and shrimp mixture in the center of each biscuit.
- Bring the edges of the biscuit dough up and over the filling, pinching them together to seal. Shape into a ball.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and garlic powder.
- Dip each bread bomb into the garlic butter mixture, coating all sides.
- Place the bread bombs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Sprinkle the tops of the bread bombs with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Serve warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.