Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells
If you’re looking for a dish that screams comfort food while delivering a burst of flavors, then you’ve just hit the jackpot with these Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells! Imagine tender pasta shells cradling a delectable filling of succulent seafood, all smothered in a rich and creamy sauce. Delicious, right? With its blend of seafood and creamy goodness, this dish is perfect for special occasions or a simple family dinner.
Fun fact: stuffed shells originated in Italy, where they were known as “conchiglioni.” But in this version, we’ve made it a coastal adventure! The combination of flavors makes this dish irresistible, and it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, taking just under an hour from start to finish. So, if you’ve enjoyed other iconic dishes from our blog, like the hearty lasagna or cheesy baked ziti, you will definitely want to add this recipe to your rotation. Let’s dive into the delightful world of Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells!
What is Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells?
So, what exactly are Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells? Well, picture this: oversized pasta shells brimming with a creamy mixture of delectable seafood, working together like a culinary superhero team! From shrimp and crab to a hint of cheesy goodness, it’s a match made in heaven.
Why the fancy name? Because every bite brings a wave of ocean-inspired flavor and richness that you can’t help but adore. It’s often said that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and these stuffed shells are sure to win over anyone’s affection (or at least their taste buds!). So why not roll up your sleeves and discover the magic of crafting these beauties in your kitchen?
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells
You’re going to fall head over heels for these Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells for three fantastic reasons! First, the highlight of the dish is undeniably its creamy, decadent filling that gets better with each bite. Feeling fancy? Pair it with a glass of crisp white wine for an extra touch of elegance. Second, making this dish at home saves you money compared to dining out at restaurants that serve similar seafood delights. Why spend a fortune when you can recreate the experience in your cozy kitchen?
Lastly, the flavorful toppings—like fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese—add a delightful finish that complements the seafood perfectly. Think of these stuffed shells as a classy cousin to your classic stuffed peppers! After you try this recipe, don’t forget to check out our creamy chicken alfredo to keep the family dinner exciting!
How to Make Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells
Quick Overview
You’d be delighted to know that these Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells come together easily and quickly. The rich, creamy filling paired with the lovely pasta shells creates a satisfying dining experience. Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, followed by 25 minutes of baking until everything is bubbly and golden brown. Let’s get started!
Key Ingredients for Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells
Here’s what you’ll need to create these scrumptious shells:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup crab meat
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until just al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, chopped shrimp, crab meat, parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Fill the Shells: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spoon a generous amount of the seafood filling into each cooked pasta shell, placing them seam-side up in a greased baking dish.
- Add Sauce: Pour the Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for that added cheesy crust.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
What to Serve Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells With
To make this meal truly memorable, consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. Crusty garlic bread could also be an excellent choice to accompany these stuffed shells. If you’re aiming for a cozy evening, classic Coleslaw would provide a refreshing crunch. And don’t forget to pair it with a nice glass of white wine or sparkling water to bring it all together!
Top Tips for Perfecting Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells
To elevate your stuffed shells to the next level, here are some handy tips:
- Seafood Selection: Feel free to mix up your seafood choices! Scallops or even lobster can substitute for shrimp or crab.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses, like goat cheese or even a spicy pepper jack for an added kick.
- Make-ahead Option: These stuffed shells can be assembled a day ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate before baking—no need to thaw; they’ll cook perfectly!
- Avoiding Sogginess: To prevent the shells from becoming soggy while baking, ensure they are filled generously but not overly packed, and use a good quality sauce.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is unlikely because they’re that good!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Want to savor them longer? They can be frozen for about 1–2 months. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped and labeled.
To reheat, simply place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. For frozen shells, a longer baking time might be needed.
Now that you’ve got all the insider details, don’t wait another moment—give these Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells a whirl. Your taste buds will thank you, and your loved ones will sing your praises!
Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until just al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, chopped shrimp, crab meat, parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spoon a generous amount of the seafood filling into each cooked pasta shell, placing them seam-side up in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for that added cheesy crust.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
