Description
Garlic Butter Crab Bread Boats are crispy hollowed bread loaves filled with a rich and creamy crab mixture, infused with garlic butter and topped with melted cheese. These indulgent seafood boats make a perfect appetizer, party dish, or satisfying lunch.
Ingredients
- 2 small French bread loaves
- 1 lb lump crab meat, drained and picked over
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 green onion, finely sliced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the French bread loaves lengthwise and hollow out some of the center to create bread boats.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter and garlic.
- Brush the inside of each bread boat with the garlic butter mixture.
- In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Fold in crab meat, green onion, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Fill the bread boats evenly with the crab mixture.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Broil for 1-2 minutes if desired for a golden cheesy top.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Lump crab meat provides the best texture and flavor.
- Do not overbake to prevent the crab filling from drying out.
- Sourdough bread can be substituted for French bread.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Serve immediately for the crispiest bread texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American