These crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs turn a simple loaf of crusty bread into an irresistible party appetizer filled with creamy cheese, tender shrimp, and aromatic garlic. Each slice delivers a crisp, buttery exterior and a warm, rich seafood center that feels indulgent yet comforting, making it perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe brings together familiar comfort foods in an exciting new way that feels special without being complicated. It uses accessible ingredients, yet the final result looks and tastes like something you would order at a restaurant. The bread can be assembled ahead of time, making it ideal for entertaining, and the filling is easy to customize based on what you enjoy. Best of all, every bite offers a satisfying contrast of crunchy bread and creamy seafood filling.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 loaf crusty Italian bread (about 16 ounces)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup cream cheese, softened
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Chop the shrimp into small, bite-size pieces and pat them dry with paper towels.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, softened cream cheese, mozzarella, parsley, garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix until smooth and evenly combined.
Slice the Italian bread in half lengthwise. Carefully hollow out the center of each half, leaving about a half-inch thick shell on all sides.
Evenly spoon the shrimp filling into each bread half, pressing gently to remove air pockets and ensure even distribution.
Brush the outside of the bread generously with melted butter.
Wrap each filled bread half in aluminum foil and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes.
Unwrap the foil and return the bread to the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 6 servings.
Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes.
Cooking time is about 20 minutes.
Total time needed is around 40 minutes.
Variations
You can add cooked crab meat to the filling for an even richer seafood flavor. A sprinkle of lemon zest brightens the filling nicely, while a pinch of smoked paprika adds depth. For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes or add finely chopped mild chili peppers. Individual portions can be made by using small rolls instead of a full loaf.
Storage/Reheating
Leftovers can be wrapped tightly in foil and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the bread in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the bread and affects the texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well as long as they are fully thawed and thoroughly dried before chopping.
What type of bread works best?
A crusty Italian loaf is ideal, but French bread or any firm artisan loaf will also work.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can assemble the stuffed bread up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to bake.
How do I keep the bread from becoming soggy?
Make sure the bread shell is thick enough and the shrimp is well dried before mixing into the filling.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe is mild, but you can adjust the heat by adding or omitting red pepper flakes.
Can I substitute another cheese?
Mozzarella melts best, but mild cheddar or a blend of cheeses can also be used.
Do I need to cook the shrimp first?
No, the shrimp cooks fully while baking inside the bread.
Can I make smaller portions?
Yes, use smaller loaves or rolls and adjust the baking time slightly.
What should I serve with this appetizer?
A light salad or fresh vegetables pair well and balance the richness.
Can this be served cold?
It is best enjoyed warm, as the filling is creamy and the bread stays crisp.
Conclusion
Crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs are the kind of appetizer that disappears quickly and leaves everyone asking for the recipe. With their golden crust, creamy seafood filling, and bold garlic flavor, they strike the perfect balance between comfort food and party-worthy presentation. Whether you are hosting guests or treating yourself, this recipe delivers big flavor with approachable preparation.
Crabby shrimp-stuffed garlic bread bombs are a savory, crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring crusty Italian bread filled with creamy cheese, tender shrimp, garlic, and herbs. Crispy on the outside and rich inside, they’re perfect for parties or special gatherings.
Ingredients
1 loaf crusty Italian bread (about 16 ounces)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup cream cheese, softened
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Chop the shrimp into small, bite-size pieces and pat them dry with paper towels.
In a large bowl, combine chopped shrimp, cream cheese, mozzarella, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until evenly blended.
Slice the Italian bread in half lengthwise and hollow out the center of each half, leaving about ½-inch shell.
Spoon the shrimp mixture into each hollowed bread half, pressing gently to fill evenly.
Brush the outer crust of the bread with melted butter.
Wrap each filled bread half in aluminum foil and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes.
Unwrap the foil and bake uncovered for another 5 minutes, until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm.
Notes
Add cooked crab meat for a more luxurious filling.
Lemon zest or smoked paprika adds extra flavor depth.
Use small rolls for individual portions and adjust baking time accordingly.
Assemble ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Avoid microwaving leftovers to maintain crispness.
