Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp and Jumbo Lump Crab Garlic Bread is the ultimate seafood lover’s indulgence. This decadent dish combines the rich flavors of shrimp and crabmeat, with the comforting warmth of garlic butter bread, creating a truly irresistible appetizer or main dish. The shrimp and crab mixture is perfectly seasoned and topped with a melty layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, adding depth and flavor to every bite. It’s a fantastic choice for entertaining or a cozy night in, and the best part is, it’s incredibly easy to prepare!

Ingredients

• 1 loaf French bread, sliced lengthwise
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• 8 oz shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• 6 oz jumbo lump crabmeat
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

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

Directions

1. Prepare the garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the minced garlic and chopped parsley. Spread this garlic butter mixture evenly over the sliced French bread, making sure to cover the entire surface.
2. Cook the shrimp: In a medium skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the crab mixture: In a bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, jumbo lump crabmeat, mayonnaise, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is well incorporated.
4. Assemble the garlic bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spoon the shrimp and crab mixture evenly over the prepared garlic bread, making sure to spread it out to cover the entire loaf.
5. Bake the garlic bread: Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bread is toasted, the cheese is melted, and the seafood topping is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve: Remove from the oven, slice into pieces, and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of freshness.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 people
• Total Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp and crab mixture for a mild spicy kick.
• Herb Variation: If you’re not a fan of parsley, try swapping it for basil or thyme to add a unique flavor.
• Cheese Swap: Use Gruyère or cheddar cheese in place of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover garlic bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore the crispy texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works great! Just be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before cooking.

Can I make this garlic bread ahead of time?

While the garlic bread is best served fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and crab mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 1 day. Assemble and bake the garlic bread just before serving.

What type of bread should I use?

French bread works perfectly because it’s sturdy enough to hold the seafood topping. However, you can also use Italian bread or even baguette slices for a smaller, bite-sized version.

Can I make this dish without crabmeat?

Yes, you can skip the crabmeat and use extra shrimp or another type of seafood, such as scallops, for a different variation.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add some finely chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the shrimp and crab mixture for some heat.

Can I use store-bought garlic bread?

Yes, you can skip the garlic butter step by using store-bought garlic bread as the base. Simply top it with the shrimp and crab mixture and bake as directed.

How do I prevent the seafood from overcooking?

To avoid overcooking the shrimp, be sure to cook them for just 2-3 minutes until they’re pink and opaque. Since they will bake with the other ingredients, this will keep them tender and juicy.

Can I freeze this garlic bread?

You can freeze the assembled bread (before baking) for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or a combination of provolone and mozzarella for added flavor.

Can I make this vegetarian?

You could substitute the shrimp and crab with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a vegetarian version of this garlic bread.

Conclusion

Shrimp and Jumbo Lump Crab Garlic Bread is a delicious, indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this seafood-infused garlic bread will undoubtedly impress your guests. It’s rich, flavorful, and wonderfully cheesy, with the perfect balance of shrimp, crab, and garlic butter. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste, and it’s quick enough for a satisfying meal in just 20-25 minutes. Enjoy it with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a delightful burst of flavor!

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