Description

Warm, rich, and packed with flavor, this Cheesy Seafood Soup Bread Bowl is the ultimate comfort food! Creamy, cheesy broth filled with tender shrimp, flaky fish, and sweet crab meat, all served inside a toasty bread bowl. It’s a hearty, cozy dish that’s perfect for chilly nights or whenever you’re craving a luxurious homemade seafood treat.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Soup:

2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups seafood or chicken broth (low sodium)
1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
½ lb white fish (like cod or haddock), cut into bite-sized pieces
½ cup lump crab meat (cooked)

For the Bread Bowls:

4 small round bread loaves (sourdough or similar)
2 tbsp butter, melted (for brushing)

Optional Garnishes:

Chopped fresh parsley
Extra shredded cheese
Cracked black pepper

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Bowls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cut a circle in the top of each bread loaf and hollow out the inside, leaving a sturdy shell.
Brush the insides with melted butter.
Bake the bread bowls for 10 minutes to crisp them slightly.
Set aside.

Step 2: Start the Soup Base
In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux.
Cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 4: Add Liquids
Slowly whisk in the broth, milk, and heavy cream.
Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Reduce heat to low.
Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
Add paprika, Old Bay seasoning (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Add the Seafood
Gently stir in the shrimp, fish, and crab meat.
Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and tender.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 7: Assemble and Serve
Ladle the hot cheesy seafood soup into the prepared bread bowls.
Garnish with chopped parsley, extra cheese, and cracked black pepper if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Use Fresh Seafood – Fresh shrimp, fish, and crab make the soup extra flavorful.
Don’t Overcook the Seafood – Simmer gently to keep it tender and juicy.
Whisk Slowly – To ensure a smooth, creamy base without lumps.
Crisp the Bread Bowls – Keeps them sturdy so they don’t get soggy too quickly.
Customize the Cheese – Try adding Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a little Parmesan for extra richness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American