Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics. In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, diced red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp. Add the chopped shrimp to the skillet with the aromatics. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Do not overcook.
Step 3: Combine with Crab and Seasoning. Stir in the lump crab meat (or imitation crab) and Old Bay seasoning to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sauté for another minute, gently folding to combine. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Base. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, shredded mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and smooth.
Step 5: Fold in the Seafood. Once the seafood mixture has cooled slightly, gently fold it into the creamy cheese base until everything is evenly combined.
Step 6: Hollow Out the Bread. Using a bread knife, carefully slice off the top (about 1 inch thick) of your round bread loaf. Gently scoop out the soft interior of the bread, leaving a sturdy ¾-inch wall around the edges and bottom. Reserve the removed bread chunks for dipping.
Step 7: Fill the Bread Bowl. Place the hollowed bread bowl on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the creamy seafood mixture generously into the bread bowl, pressing it gently to fill all the space. You can sprinkle a little extra mozzarella or Parmesan on top if desired, and place the reserved bread top loosely over the filling, or toast it separately.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the filled bread bowl for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling, the top is golden brown, and the bread edges are lightly crisped. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil.
Step 9: Rest and Serve. Let the Stuffed Seafood Bread Bowl rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This allows the filling to set and makes for easier serving. Serve immediately with the reserved bread chunks or your favorite crackers.