Are you looking for a quick and easy side dish that's both healthy and incredibly flavorful? Look no further! This seafood stuffing recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a special holiday gathering. Packed with succulent seafood, aromatic herbs, and fluffy bread, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly simple to make. Forget dry, boring stuffing; this recipe elevates the classic side to a whole new level of deliciousness! This recipe is a great example of homemade cooking at its finest – fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly quick to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound crusty bread, cubed (day-old bread works best)
- 1/2 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 pound cooked lobster meat, chopped (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 pound cooked scallops, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, bread cubes, shrimp, lobster (if using), scallops (if using), parsley, and thyme.
Step 3: Add Liquid and Season
Pour the chicken broth and white wine (if using) over the bread mixture. Season generously with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the bread is evenly moistened.
Step 4: Bake
Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through. For extra crispy topping, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Cooking Tips for the Best Seafood Stuffing:
- Don't over-mix: Gently toss the ingredients to avoid breaking up the bread cubes too much.
- Use day-old bread: Day-old bread absorbs the liquid better, resulting in a more flavorful and moist stuffing.
- Adjust the liquid: If the stuffing seems too dry, add a little more broth. If it's too wet, let it sit for a few minutes to absorb some of the liquid.
- Add some spice: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Variations:
- Vegetarian option: Omit the seafood and add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Cranberry seafood stuffing: Stir in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Cheese lovers delight: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on specific ingredients and portion size. Use a nutrition calculator for a precise calculation based on your ingredient quantities. Expect a moderate calorie count, with a good source of protein from the seafood and fiber from the bread.
This easy seafood stuffing recipe is a fantastic addition to any meal. It's a delicious, healthy, and impressive side dish that's sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!