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| Seafood Stuffed Shells |
Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe
If you’re craving the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and seafood-packed comfort food — you’re in the right place! These Seafood Stuffed Shells bring together tender pasta, rich and savory seafood, and a smooth, velvety cream sauce that’s guaranteed to impress.
Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner, a special date night at home, or just looking for a new way to treat the seafood lovers at your table, this recipe checks all the boxes: easy to prepare, full of flavor, and downright irresistible.
In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need — from simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, to helpful tips, tasty variations, and the best ways to serve and store your creamy seafood stuffed shells. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe
1. Perfect Comfort Food for Seafood Lovers
There’s something extra satisfying about the mix of tender pasta, creamy cheese, and juicy, savory seafood. This recipe creates that perfect comfort food vibe — rich, filling, and full of flavor — ideal for anyone who loves shrimp, crab, or scallops.
2. Easy Yet Impressive Dinner Idea
Don’t let the elegant look fool you! These seafood stuffed shells are surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or hosting a dinner party, this dish brings restaurant-quality results without complicated steps.
3. Versatile and Customizable
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. You can load the shells with shrimp, crab, scallops — or mix them all together for a seafood medley. You can even adjust the sauce and cheese blend to match your personal taste.
4. Make-Ahead and Freezer Friendly
Busy schedule? No problem! These stuffed shells can be prepped ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready, and you’ve got a comforting seafood feast with almost zero stress.
Ingredients for Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells
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| Seafood Stuffed Shells |
1. The Seafood Filling
The star of this recipe is the rich and savory seafood filling. You can choose:
- Shrimp — chopped and lightly cooked.
- Crab Meat — fresh, canned, or imitation.
- Scallops — diced for perfect bites.
Whether you mix them all or stick to one, the seafood adds a delicious, ocean-fresh flavor.
2. The Cheesy Blend
Creamy, gooey cheese is what ties the whole dish together! You’ll need:
- Ricotta cheese — for smooth texture and mild taste.
- Mozzarella cheese — for that melty, stretchy goodness.
- Parmesan cheese — for a sharp, salty finish.
This combo creates a rich and comforting filling that pairs beautifully with the seafood.
3. The Creamy Sauce
A luscious cream sauce elevates these stuffed shells to next-level deliciousness. You’ll whisk together:
- Heavy cream — for richness.
- Garlic and butter — for deep, savory flavor.
- Italian seasoning — to balance the herbs and spice.
This sauce coats the pasta and seafood, creating a restaurant-style finish right at home.
4. Pasta and Seasoning Essentials
The foundation of the recipe is simple but important:
- Jumbo pasta shells — perfect for stuffing.
- Salt and pepper — for seasoning the layers.
- Fresh parsley — for garnish and a fresh burst of flavor.
With these ingredients in hand, you're all set to create a seafood dish that’s as comforting as it is impressive!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Seafood Stuffed Shells
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| Seafood Stuffed Shells |
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Seafood
Start by lightly sautéing your shrimp, crab, and scallops in a skillet over medium heat. Cook just until the seafood is firm and opaque — be careful not to overcook, as it will bake further in the oven. Let the seafood cool slightly before moving to the next step.
Step 2: Mix the Cheesy Seafood Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked seafood with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended, creating the perfect stuffing for your pasta shells.
Step 3: Stuff and Arrange the Pasta Shells
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Once drained and slightly cooled, carefully spoon the cheesy seafood mixture into each shell. Arrange the stuffed shells snugly in a lightly greased baking dish.
Step 4: Make and Pour the Creamy Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Whisk in heavy cream and Italian herbs, letting the sauce simmer until smooth and slightly thickened. Pour the sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, covering them generously for maximum flavor.
Pro Tips, Variations, and Serving Ideas
1. Expert Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells
- Cook the seafood just until tender — overcooking can make it rubbery, especially after baking.
- Don’t overfill the shells, leave room for the flavors to meld without spilling over.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste and smooth melting.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.
2. Tasty Variations to Try
- Lobster-Stuffed Shells: Swap shrimp and crab for chopped lobster meat for an upscale twist.
- Spicy Cajun Version: Add Cajun seasoning to the filling and sauce for a bold, spicy kick.
- Tomato-Cream Hybrid: Replace half the cream sauce with marinara for a tangy, creamy fusion.
3. Best Side Dishes for Seafood Stuffed Shells
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of that creamy sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad to balance the richness of the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Simple, lightly seasoned vegetables like asparagus or zucchini pair beautifully.
4. How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Assemble the shells and sauce in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Bake refrigerated or thawed shells at 350°F until heated through, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Conclusion
Creamy seafood stuffed shells are the perfect mix of simple preparation and impressive flavor — combining tender pasta, a rich cheese blend, and savory seafood, all wrapped in a smooth, comforting sauce. Whether you’re new to seafood recipes or a seasoned home chef, this dish is guaranteed to win hearts around the table.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seafood combinations, adjust the sauce to your liking, or even try a new twist each time you make it. Cooking is all about creativity and fun!
If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Drop a comment below and leave a rating — your feedback always makes my day. Happy cooking!