First Step: PREPARE THE BELL PEPPERS

1. Prepare the Peppers: Start by washing and cutting the bell peppers in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and membranes to create hollowed-out boats for the filling.
2. Blanch the Peppers: To soften the peppers slightly and help them cook evenly, place them in a pot of boiling water for about 3-4 minutes. This step is optional but can help reduce baking time. Once blanched, drain the peppers and set them aside to cool slightly.

Second Step: MAKE THE SEAFOOD FILLING

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, and celery. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the Seafood: Stir in the crab meat and chopped shrimp. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, just until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Stir occasionally to make sure the seafood cooks evenly.
3. Mix the Creamy Base: Add the softened cream cheese and sour cream to the seafood mixture. Stir until everything is combined, and the cheese melts into the mixture, creating a smooth, creamy filling.
4. Add Seasonings: Stir in the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you’re using dill, add it now, along with the fresh parsley.
5. Incorporate the Cheeses and Breadcrumbs: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and breadcrumbs. The mixture should be thick and creamy, with a good balance of cheese and texture. If the filling feels too thick, you can add a little more sour cream or a splash of milk to loosen it up.

Third Step: STUFF THE PEPPERS

1. Stuff the Peppers: Take the hollowed-out bell peppers and carefully spoon the seafood filling into each one, packing it in tightly. Be sure to distribute the filling evenly among the peppers.
2. Top with Extra Breadcrumbs: If desired, sprinkle additional breadcrumbs over the top of the stuffed peppers for a crispy topping. This adds a nice texture contrast to the creamy seafood filling.

Fourth Step: BAKE THE STUFFED PEPPERS

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Place the stuffed peppers upright in the dish, ensuring they don’t tip over.
2. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
3. Crisp the Top: After the initial bake time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs on top are golden brown and crispy.
4. Let Cool Slightly: Once baked, remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes them easier to handle.

Final Step: GARNISH AND SERVE

1. Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle the stuffed peppers with fresh parsley or dill for a burst of color and freshness. You can also drizzle a little extra lemon juice over the top for added brightness.
2. Serve: Serve the stuffed bell peppers hot, with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty touch. Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.