Stuffed Seafood Soup Bread Bowl

Few dishes feel as indulgent and comforting as a creamy seafood soup served inside a warm, crusty bread bowl. This recipe combines tender shrimp, sweet lump crab meat, and optional clams in a rich, seasoned broth — all nestled inside a hollowed-out loaf of bread. It’s the ultimate way to turn a simple soup into a show-stopping meal.

Perfect for cozy nights in, special occasions, or dinner parties, this stuffed seafood soup bread bowl is both hearty and elegant.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups seafood or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
½ lb lump crab meat
½ lb clams, cooked and shelled (optional)
½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 small round bread loaves (or 1 large loaf for sharing)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Bowls

If using small round loaves, slice off the top and hollow out the center, leaving about 1 inch of bread around the edges for structure.
Place the bread bowls on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to crisp the inside. This prevents the soup from soaking through too quickly.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
Add the onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 3: Make the Base

Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
Slowly pour in the broth, whisking to prevent lumps.
Add the Old Bay seasoning, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 4: Add the Seafood

Stir in the heavy cream and bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
Add the shrimp, crab meat, and clams (if using).
Cook for 4–6 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Ladle the seafood soup into the prepared bread bowls.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Enjoy with the hollowed-out bread pieces for dipping.

Recipe Recap

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Tips for Best Results

Use fresh seafood for the best flavor, but frozen can work if thawed and drained well.
If making ahead, prepare the soup separately and reheat just before serving — fill the bread bowls at the last minute to prevent sogginess.
Swap Old Bay seasoning with Cajun seasoning for a spicier twist.

Make It Your Own

Add diced potatoes or corn for extra texture.
Stir in a handful of spinach or kale just before serving for added color and nutrients.
For a richer soup, add ¼ cup of white wine when cooking the onions.