If you’re craving something indulgent yet easy to prepare, these Seafood Stuffed Shells are a must-try! Tender pasta shells filled with a rich, creamy seafood mixture and topped with a delicious sauce—this dish is perfect for a special dinner or a weeknight treat. It’s sure to impress with its elegant flavors while being surprisingly simple to make.
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Why You’ll Love These Seafood Stuffed Shells
- Rich and Flavorful: A creamy filling with a mix of seafood, cheese, and herbs.
- Restaurant-Worthy: Perfect for date night or dinner parties.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Warm, cheesy, and so satisfying.
Ingredients for Seafood Stuffed Shells
To make this dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1/2 pound crabmeat (or imitation crab)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups marinara or Alfredo sauce (depending on your preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Extra parsley for garnish
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta shells.
- Mixing bowl: To prepare the seafood filling.
- Baking dish: To bake the shells.
- Spoon or piping bag: To fill the shells with the seafood mixture.
How to Make Seafood Stuffed Shells
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Seafood Filling
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and cooked through.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, cooked shrimp, crabmeat, lemon zest, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Step 3: Fill the Shells
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spoon or pipe the seafood mixture into each cooled pasta shell.
- Spread 1 cup of your chosen sauce (marinara or Alfredo) across the bottom of a baking dish.
Step 4: Bake the Shells
- Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish on top of the sauce.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the top of the shells, and sprinkle with a little extra mozzarella or Parmesan if desired.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the shells are heated through and the cheese is melted.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven, garnish with extra parsley, and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these seafood stuffed shells with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
- For a light and refreshing side, consider serving with a citrusy arugula salad.
Tips for the Best Seafood Stuffed Shells
- Use Fresh or Frozen Seafood: Fresh shrimp and crabmeat are ideal, but frozen will also work well—just be sure to thaw it before using.
- Alfredo or Marinara?: Both sauces work beautifully with this dish. Alfredo adds creaminess, while marinara gives it a tangy, tomato-based flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercook the shells to ensure they hold up during baking.
Storage Instructions
- To Store: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
- To Freeze: You can freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Place the filled shells on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. To bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and proceed with baking instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use other types of seafood?
A: Yes! You can swap out shrimp and crab for scallops, lobster, or even a mix of your favorite seafood.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare and stuff the shells a day in advance, refrigerate them, and bake them just before serving.
Q3: What sauce should I use?
A: Both marinara and Alfredo work well for this recipe. Marinara adds a tangy tomato flavor, while Alfredo creates a creamy, rich dish. You can even use half of each for a mixed sauce!
Conclusion: A Seafood Lover’s Dream!
These Seafood Stuffed Shells are the perfect combination of comfort and elegance. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a special occasion, the creamy, cheesy filling and tender seafood will wow everyone at the table. Give them a try, and they’ll surely become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
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Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
Enjoy every bite of these rich, flavorful seafood stuffed shells and share the love with family and friends!
