Lobster-Stuffed Garlic Bread Boats

• French bread or Italian bread: Choose a sturdy loaf with a crisp crust so it can hold the filling without getting soggy
• Cooked lobster meat: fresh or frozen Look for sweet firm meat Avoid overcooked lobster or it can become rubbery
• Unsalted butter: softened The key to a rich garlic base Use high-quality butter for best flavor
• Garlic: minced Go for fresh garlic not pre-chopped or jarred
• Fresh parsley: chopped Brightens flavors and gives a vivid finish Go for flat leaf if possible
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for a gooey topping Choose low-moisture mozzarella to avoid soggy bread
• Red pepper flakes: optional Adds just a hint of heat Use as much or as little as you like
• Salt and pepper: Balances and heightens the other flavors Freshly cracked black pepper always adds an aromatic punch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Bread:

Cut the loaf in half lengthwise and use clean hands or a spoon to gently scoop out some of the soft inside This makes room for the rich lobster filling and keeps the bread from turning mushy

Make the Garlic Butter:

In a small bowl blend the softened butter with minced garlic salt and pepper Mix until smooth and fragrant This step is where the deep garlic flavor starts

Mix the Filling:

In a large bowl combine chopped lobster meat with the prepared garlic butter Add fresh parsley and red pepper flakes Mix well so every bite gets coated with flavor

Stuff the Bread:

Fill the hollowed bread halves with the lobster mixture Spoon it evenly to the edges Top with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella pressing lightly to help it stick

Bake Until Golden:

Place the filled bread boats on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the bread is toasted

Cool and Serve:

Let the boats cool for several minutes Slice into thick pieces and sprinkle with a bit more fresh parsley before serving This ensures safe handling and preserves the gooey cheese texture

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My favorite part is the scent of garlic and butter when these hit the oven It reminds me of cozy weekends spent with my cousins when we argued over who got the cheesiest edge slice

Storage Tips

Leftover bread boats can be wrapped tightly in foil and kept in the refrigerator for up to two days Warm in the oven to regain the crispy texture Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread rubbery

Ingredient Substitutions

Crab or cooked shrimp make tasty alternatives to lobster For a different cheese try Gruyere for nutty depth If you only have salted butter skip adding extra salt

Serving Suggestions

These boats pair well with a crisp green salad or a bowl of chowder For a special brunch serve with sparkling wine or a citrusy spritz They are also great for a potluck as you can slice and arrange them on a platter

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Cultural and Historical Context

Lobster rolls are a classic New England staple and these garlic bread boats are my fun twist on that tradition The garlic butter base nods to Italian-American flavors while the gooey cheese makes this a favorite for any cheese lover

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use imitation lobster or another seafood?

Yes, imitation lobster or even shrimp can be substituted for lobster if preferred or for convenience.

→ What type of bread works best?

French or Italian bread is ideal for a sturdy base with fluffy interiors that hold the seafood filling well.

→ How do I make it less spicy?

Simply leave out the red pepper flakes, or replace with a milder spice to keep it gentle.

→ Can I prepare in advance?

You can assemble the bread boats ahead of time and bake just before serving for freshness.

→ What goes well on the side?

Crisp salads or roasted vegetables complement the rich cheesy bread nicely.