Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a delightful seafood treat with these Shrimp & Crab Croissant Bomb Cups! Perfect for brunch, an appetizer, or a cozy night in, these delightful cups are bursting with rich flavors and creamy textures. Imagine biting into a warm, flaky croissant shell filled with tender shrimp and succulent crab meat, all brought together with a velvety cheese mixture. Everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 can (8-count) refrigerated croissant dough or puff pastry sheets
- 1/2 cup lump crab meat (drained)
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled & chopped (reserve a few whole shrimp for topping)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes
Yield: 6–8 cups
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or a touch of melted butter, ensuring each cup is ready for the delicious filling.
- Roll out the croissant dough and press each square into the muffin cups, forming a deep well that will hold your scrumptious filling.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, lump crab meat, chopped shrimp, shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, minced garlic, chopped parsley, Old Bay seasoning, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir until everything is nicely blended.
- Spoon the creamy seafood mixture generously into each dough cup. For a touch of elegance, place a whole shrimp on top of each one.
- Brush the exposed dough with an egg wash to give it that golden sheen in the oven. This step adds a gorgeous coloring and a rich flavor.
- Pop the muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the croissant cups are beautifully puffed and a deep golden brown.
- Once baked, sprinkle the cups with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve warm to your eager guests!
Notes or Tips
For an even more decadent filling, consider adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness or some diced jalapeños for a kick. You can also experiment with different cheeses or seafood according to your preferences. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a day, but they are best enjoyed fresh!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes the classic technique of baking pastry dough to achieve that perfect flakiness. By pressing the dough into a muffin tin, you create little cups that hold the luscious filling perfectly. Be sure not to overmix the filling, as you want to maintain some texture from the crab and shrimp for a delightful bite!
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before chopping and using them in this recipe.
How can I make these cups ahead of time?
You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble the cups just before baking for the best texture.
What should I serve with these cups?
These delightful bomb cups pair wonderfully with a light salad or some tangy dipping sauces, like a lemon aioli or spicy remoulade.
Conclusion
These Shrimp & Crab Croissant Bomb Cups are not just a dish; they are a celebration of flavor and texture! With their irresistible filling and flaky crust, they are sure to impress at any gathering. Serve them warm, enjoy the compliments, and relish the joyous moments shared over this gorgeous seafood delicacy. Happy cooking!