Who doesn’t love a creamy, flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare? Seafood Stuffed Shells are just that! Bursting with succulent crab and shrimp, these shells are nestled in a rich ricotta and mozzarella filling, making them a family favorite week after week. Did you know? The origins of stuffed pasta date back centuries, and these shells bring a delightful seafood twist to the table. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, this dish will become your new go-to. Compared to other pasta dishes we’ve shared, like the Classic Alfredo, these stuffed shells offer a unique blend of flavors that you can’t resist. Let’s dive in and make your mouth water!
What is Seafood Stuffed Shells?
What’s in a name? Seafood Stuffed Shells are exactly as they sound—delicious pasta shells loaded with the treasures of the sea! Who could resist such a delightful combination? The saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and these shells may be just the way to win over yours, too. So, why not go on a little culinary adventure and discover why these shells are so beloved?
Why You’ll Love This
These Seafood Stuffed Shells are bound to make a splash on your dinner table! With the main highlight being the luscious seafood filling, you’ll save money by skipping restaurants and savoring this gourmet delight at home. The rich combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese gives it a delightful richness. Compared to our Zesty Shrimp Scampi, these shells offer a heartier bite, perfect for seafood lovers. Ready to dive in?
How to Make
Quick Overview
This dish, involving succulent crab and shrimp with a creamy cheese filling, is surprisingly quick and deliciously satisfying. Its easy preparation ensures you’ll have an exquisite meal on your table in no time. The whole process takes about 45 minutes, making it ideal for any busy day.
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup lump crab meat, drained
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine crab meat, chopped shrimp, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, and parsley. Mix well.
- Fill each pasta shell with the seafood mixture, placing them in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour heavy cream over the shells and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with extra parsley and serve warm.
What to Serve Seafood Stuffed Shells With
Pair these delightful stuffed shells with a crisp Caesar salad or steamed asparagus for a pleasant crunch. A chilled glass of white wine complements the dish beautifully, enhancing its flavors wonderfully.
Top Tips for Perfecting
- For a delectable twist, add some chopped fresh spinach to the filling.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mix.
- Make sure to not overcook the pasta shells in the boiling process, as they will finish cooking in the oven.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to store them longer, place them in the freezer for up to a month. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through. For best results, cover with foil to prevent drying out during reheating.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of seafood? Absolutely! Try scallops or lobster for a unique twist.
- Can I make this dish in advance? Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
- What if I can’t find jumbo pasta shells? Try using manicotti or cannelloni as a substitute; they work well, too!
Conclusion
Ready to indulge in these luscious Seafood Stuffed Shells? This dish is sure to impress and satisfy seafood enthusiasts everywhere. So why wait? Let’s get cooking and enjoy every delicious bite!
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup lump crab meat, drained
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine crab meat, shrimp, ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, Old Bay, lemon juice, and parsley.
- Stuff each shell with the seafood mixture and arrange in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour heavy cream over the shells and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with extra parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Add chopped spinach or red pepper flakes for a twist. Don't overboil pasta shells—they will finish baking in the oven. You can prepare the dish ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
