Crabmeat And Shrimp Pistolettes
Crabmeat and shrimp filled pistolettes topped with melted cheese make a rich, flavorful appetizer perfect for seafood lovers and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a skillet and sauté chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery until tender.
- Add flour to the skillet and cook for a minute, then gradually stir in evaporated milk until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Add grated Swiss cheese and stir until melted, then incorporate cooked shrimp and crabmeat, seasoning to taste.
- Scoop out the insides of pistolettes and fill them with the seafood mixture, shaping like a boat.
- Place filled pistolettes on a baking sheet, sprinkle grated Mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until hot and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. You can substitute the Swiss cheese with Gouda or Gruyère for a different taste. If you want to add some heat, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. For a quicker version, pre-made seafood mixtures are available that can save time in preparation. This dish is a great way to utilize leftovers from a Crab Meat And Shrimp Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these pistolettes as a delightful appetizer or as a main dish alongside a crisp green salad or a bowl of Tomato-Shrimp Salad for a refreshing contrast. A light white wine or sparkling water pairs beautifully with the seafood flavors. For a heartier meal, consider serving with a side of Simple Tuna Casserole, as it complements the richness of the pistolettes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the pistolettes on a baking sheet and cover them with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly. Avoid microwaving to retain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crabmeat And Shrimp Pistolettes contains roughly 609 calories, with 17g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (297% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value), and protein (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 689mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh shrimp instead of pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, you can use fresh shrimp! Just make sure to cook them until they are pink and opaque before adding them to the mixture. Adjust the cooking time after sautéing the vegetables to ensure the shrimp are cooked through.
What can I use instead of pistolettes?
If you can't find pistolettes, you can use small French bread rolls or even hollowed-out baguette pieces. The key is to have enough structure to hold the seafood filling. Just make sure to adjust the baking time based on the size of the bread you use.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients, like the cheese and seafood, are certified gluten-free. This will allow you to enjoy the same creamy texture without the gluten.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).