Crabby Shrimp Garlic Bread Bombs

Crabby Shrimp-Stuffed Garlic Bread Bombs are my go-to party snack when I want something cheesy and decadent but with a seafood twist. Tender shrimp gets folded into creamy cheese and tucked into crusty bread for a finger food that disappears fast at any gathering. These are rich savory and impossible to eat just one.

The first time I shared these at a holiday potluck not a crumb was left. Now my friends ask for them every time shrimp is on sale.

Ingredients

• Crusty Italian bread: The outer shell holds all the filling and stays crisp Choose a bakery loaf with a good crust
• Fresh shrimp: The star of the show Use peeled and deveined shrimp for easy prep Choose ones that smell fresh and look translucent
• Cream cheese: Makes the filling creamy and rich Use full fat for best flavor and texture
• Mozzarella cheese: Brings the gooey cheesy pull A good block of mozzarella melts smoother than pre-shredded
• Fresh parsley: Brightens up all the flavors Look for crisp green leaves
• Garlic: Delivers powerful savory notes Choose fresh over pre-minced for bold flavor
• Butter: Brushed on the outside it ensures a golden crunchy crust Use unsalted for more control over seasoning
• Salt and pepper: Balances and lifts every ingredient Use flaky salt for best taste
• Red pepper flakes: Completely optional but gives a subtle heat Use sparingly for just a kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

Chop shrimp into small pieces to make sure every bite gets some seafood. In a large mixing bowl combine the shrimp with cream cheese mozzarella parsley garlic salt and pepper. Make sure the mixture is even and creamy so it spreads easily into the bread.

Prep the Bread:

Take your loaf of Italian bread and slice it in half lengthwise so you have two long pieces. Gently scoop out some of the soft center from both halves leaving enough bread to form a solid shell that will hold all the creamy filling.

Fill the Bread:

Pack the cheesy shrimp mixture firmly into both hollowed bread halves. Press it down so the filling is evenly distributed and holds its shape during baking.

Butter and Bake:

Heat oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit. Brush the outside of the bread with melted butter for a beautiful shiny crust. Wrap each half in aluminum foil to trap moisture then bake for fifteen minutes. Take the foil off and return to the oven for five more minutes to make the crust extra crispy.

Slice and Serve:

Let the bread cool just a few minutes to set the filling. Use a serrated knife to slice into generous portions and serve these warm so the cheese stays stretchy.

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My favorite part has always been the way the garlicky shrimp melts with the cream cheese. I remember making these for my mom’s birthday and laughing as everyone argued over the end pieces which get maximally crunchy and buttery.

Storage Tips

Wrap any leftovers tightly in foil and store in the fridge for up to two days. For best results reheat in a hot oven not the microwave so the bread stays crispy. You can also freeze the filled uncooked bread halves for up to one month. Thaw as needed and bake straight from the fridge.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find fresh shrimp you can use frozen just thaw and pat dry before mixing in. Crab meat is a welcome addition or swap entirely for a new flavor. For dairy free diets try a plant based cream cheese and mozzarella which will still deliver a creamy filling.

Serving Suggestions

These bombs are hefty enough to be dinner with a crisp green salad. For parties serve as hearty appetizers sliced into smaller pieces. I love offering a little dish of marinara or garlicky aioli for dipping.

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Cultural and Historical Context

Stuffed breads have been around for centuries in Italian-American kitchens. While most classic versions feature sausage or classic cheese this shrimp and cheese combo feels coastal and festive. It is a nostalgic upgrade if you grew up with cheesy garlic bread on family pizza night.

Common Queries

→ Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp. Just chop them and follow the same mixing steps, taking care not to overbake since the shrimp are already cooked.

→ What cheese alternatives work well?

For variation, try substituting mozzarella with Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.

→ Is it possible to prepare this ahead?

You can assemble the stuffed bread a few hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve for best texture.

→ How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

Hollowing out most of the soft crumb and packing the filling firmly helps keep the bread crisp while baking.

→ Can crab be omitted or replaced?

If you prefer, use all shrimp or mix in cooked crab meat for extra seafood flavor, or substitute with lobster for a luxurious twist.

→ Is this dish spicy?

It's only mildly spiced from optional red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference or omit entirely.