If you’re a fan of seafood and pasta, Seafood Stuffed Shells is a recipe you absolutely need to try. These jumbo pasta shells are stuffed with a creamy, flavorful seafood filling, then baked to perfection in a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you simply want to indulge in a seafood delight, this dish brings together shrimp, crab, and a blend of cheeses for an unforgettable meal.
For another seafood pasta delight, check out this Shrimp Linguine, a quick and flavorful option for busy nights!
Ingredients for Seafood Stuffed Shells
Here’s everything you need to make delicious and creamy seafood stuffed shells at home:
For the Pasta Shells:
- 12-15 jumbo pasta shells (conchiglie)
For the Seafood Filling:
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup lump crab meat (or imitation crab)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (for freshness)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp Old Bay seasoning (for extra seafood flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken or seafood broth
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp Old Bay seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
For Topping:
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta Shells
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them al dente according to the package instructions (usually around 9-10 minutes).
- Drain and rinse them with cool water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Seafood Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, crab meat, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, and cream cheese.
- Add parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix everything together until fully incorporated.
- Set the filling aside while you prepare the sauce.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and broth, stirring continuously.
- Add parmesan cheese, Old Bay seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Stir and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Assemble the Seafood Stuffed Shells
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of the prepared sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the seafood filling and arrange them in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the stuffed shells.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!
Tips for Making the Best Seafood Stuffed Shells
1. Can You Use Different Types of Seafood?
Absolutely! While shrimp and crab are classic choices, you can also use:
- Lobster meat for a more luxurious dish
- Scallops (finely chopped) for extra texture
- White fish (like cod or tilapia) for a mild, flaky option
For the best flavor, always choose fresh seafood. If you’re unsure how to select the freshest shrimp or crab, check out this Seafood Buying Guide by the FDA for expert tips on buying and storing seafood safely.
2. Can You Put Cream Cheese in Stuffed Shells?
Yes! Cream cheese makes the filling extra creamy and rich. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese.
3. How to Cook Large Shell Pasta Properly
- Use a large pot with plenty of water so the shells don’t stick together.
- Add salt to the water for better flavor.
- Stir occasionally to prevent the shells from clumping.
- Don’t overcook—they should be slightly firm (al dente) so they hold their shape when baked.
4. How to Make It Ahead of Time
- You can prepare the stuffed shells and sauce a day in advance and store them in the fridge.
- When ready to bake, add 5 extra minutes to the cooking time.
- You can also freeze stuffed shells before baking. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
What to Serve with Seafood Stuffed Shells?
Seafood stuffed shells are rich and creamy, so pairing them with the right sides can help balance the flavors and create a complete meal. Here are some of the best side dishes to serve with this delicious seafood pasta:
1. Fresh Salads
A light and refreshing salad helps cut through the richness of the dish. Try:
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and creamy Caesar dressing.
- Arugula Salad – Peppery arugula with a lemon vinaigrette and shaved parmesan.
- Tomato and Cucumber Salad – Fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and balsamic dressing.
2. Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls
A warm, crispy garlic bread or soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce from the stuffed shells.
3. Roasted or Steamed Vegetables
Adding vegetables as a side dish brings color, nutrients, and extra flavor. Some great options include:
- Roasted asparagus with olive oil and garlic.
- Steamed broccoli with a squeeze of lemon.
- Sautéed spinach with garlic and butter.
4. Light Soups
A bowl of light soup can be a great starter to your meal. Consider:
- Minestrone Soup – A vegetable-packed broth-based soup.
- Tomato Basil Soup – A smooth, tangy tomato soup with fresh basil.
- Clam Chowder – If you love seafood, this creamy soup complements the dish well.
5. Wine Pairing
Seafood stuffed shells go best with white wines that have a crisp, refreshing taste. Try:
- Chardonnay – A rich and creamy white wine that pairs well with the cheesy sauce.
- Sauvignon Blanc – A citrusy, acidic wine that balances the richness of the dish.
- Pinot Grigio – A light and refreshing option that complements seafood.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What Are Seafood Shells Made Of?
Seafood shells are large pasta shells (conchiglie) that are typically made from semolina flour and water. They are designed to hold fillings like cheese, meat, or seafood.
2. What Can You Eat with Stuffed Shells?
Stuffed shells pair well with:
- Salads (Caesar, garden, or Greek salad)
- Garlic bread or focaccia
- Roasted or steamed vegetables
- Light soups like minestrone or tomato basil soup
3. Can You Put Cream Cheese in Stuffed Shells?
Yes! Cream cheese makes the filling extra creamy and flavorful. If you want a lighter option, you can substitute it with ricotta or cottage cheese.
4. How to Cook Large Shell Pasta?
- Boil in a large pot of salted water.
- Cook al dente (9-10 minutes) so they hold their shape.
- Rinse with cool water after draining to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
In conclusion Seafood stuffed shells are the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and seafood-rich flavors, making them a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a comforting meal for your family, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality experience at home. The blend of shrimp, crab, and ricotta cheese creates a luscious filling, while the homemade creamy sauce enhances every bite. Plus, this dish pairs beautifully with salads, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. With easy preparation steps and the option to make it ahead of time, it’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing favorite. Try this recipe today and enjoy a truly indulgent seafood pasta dish!
If you love creamy pasta dishes, you might also enjoy this White Chicken Lasagna for another indulgent option.