Seafood Stuffed Shells

Oh, my friend, you’re in for a treat! If you love rich, comforting pasta dishes, Seafood Stuffed Shells is a total game-changer. The moment you sink your fork into one of these shell-shaped delights, you’ll feel like you’re diving into a cozy seafood haven. Picture this: tender pasta shells stuffed with a luscious mixture of shrimp, crab, and creamy cheese, all baked to golden perfection. The best part? It’s super easy to make but looks like you spent hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love Seafood Stuffed Shells

This recipe isn’t just about throwing some ingredients together—it’s about creating an experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night at home, this dish fits every occasion. Let’s break it down, shall we?

Versatile

From casual weeknight dinners to fancy dinner parties, these stuffed shells can handle it all. You can even prep them ahead of time for stress-free entertaining. Picture this: everyone gathers around, and as you serve up these beautiful stuffed shells, you hear a chorus of “What’s in these?!” Yeah, you’re going to get the praise you deserve.

Budget-Friendly

Who says great food has to be expensive? This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients, but the seafood filling makes it feel so special. Whether you’re on a budget or just looking for a satisfying dish without the splurge, this one checks all the boxes.

Quick and Easy

I know life can get busy, but this recipe takes the stress out of cooking. With just a handful of ingredients and a couple of easy steps, you’ll have a comforting, flavorful meal that feels like it came from a high-end restaurant. You’ve got this!

Customizable

Love extra garlic? Add it in! Want a bit of a kick? A pinch of red pepper flakes will do the trick. This dish is all about making it yours. You can even switch up the seafood mix if you prefer a different combo, like scallops or lobster. Get creative!

Crowd-Pleasing

This is one of those dishes that everyone will love. Kids, adults, seafood lovers, picky eaters—you name it, they’ll be asking for more. Plus, the creamy filling and savory baked flavor make it universally adored.

Ingredients in Seafood Stuffed Shells

Okay, let’s talk ingredients! This dish might sound fancy, but it’s made with just a few simple, easy-to-find staples. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Jumbo Pasta Shells: The vessel for all that creamy seafood goodness. You’ll want those big, beautiful shells to scoop up all the filling.
• Seafood: Think shrimp and crab meat—tender, juicy, and full of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, mix it up with other seafood options!
• Cream Cheese & Ricotta: These two create the creamy base that makes the filling rich and decadent.
• Mozzarella: Melted on top for that gorgeous, gooey texture.
• Garlic & Herbs: Oh, the flavors these add! A little garlic, parsley, and some Italian seasoning make the stuffing pop.
• Tomato Sauce: To add a little tang and balance out all the creamy goodness.

(Note: The full list of ingredients with measurements can be found in the recipe card below!)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to make this dreamy dish happen:

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). You want it nice and hot to bake those stuffed shells to perfection.

Cook the Shells

Boil the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. You want them al dente, so they hold their shape when stuffed. Once they’re done, drain and set them aside to cool slightly.

Make the Seafood Filling

In a bowl, combine cooked shrimp (chopped) and crab meat with ricotta cheese, cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Mix until everything is well blended. This is where the magic happens—your seafood filling should be creamy and packed with flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Stuff the Shells

Now, grab those cooled pasta shells and stuff them generously with the seafood mixture. Don’t be shy with the filling—it’s the best part!

Prepare the Baking Dish

Spread a layer of tomato sauce at the bottom of your baking dish, just enough to cover the surface. Arrange the stuffed shells on top, then pour the remaining sauce over them. Sprinkle a bit of mozzarella cheese on top of each shell for that melty, golden finish.

Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 10 minutes to let the cheese get golden and bubbly.

Finishing Touches

Take your stuffed shells out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Trust me, this brief resting period makes them even more delicious!

Serve and Enjoy

Serve these beautiful stuffed shells warm with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top. Pair them with a green salad and garlic bread, and you’re all set for a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

How to Serve Seafood Stuffed Shells

These stuffed shells are perfect as a main dish, but there are so many ways you can make the meal extra special!

Fresh Salads

A bright, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would pair perfectly with the rich and creamy stuffed shells. The crunch and freshness contrast beautifully with the dish.

Crusty Bread

Garlic bread or a nice, warm baguette would be perfect to help scoop up any leftover sauce on your plate. Trust me, you won’t want to waste a drop!

Creamy Accompaniments

A dollop of sour cream or a creamy dipping sauce can add another layer of richness if you’re craving that extra creamy goodness.

Roasted Vegetables

Think roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or a medley of colorful roasted veggies. It’s an easy way to add some extra nutrition and flavor.

Additional Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can make the filling a day in advance, then stuff and bake the shells when you’re ready. It’s perfect for busy nights or if you’re hosting.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the seafood filling if you like a little heat.
• Dietary Adjustments: For a dairy-free version, you can swap out the cream cheese and ricotta for dairy-free alternatives. You can also use gluten-free pasta shells if needed.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute crab with another type of seafood?

A1: Absolutely! You can use lobster, scallops, or even a mix of other shellfish. It’ll change the flavor a bit, but it’ll still be delicious.

Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?

A2: Yes! You can assemble the stuffed shells the day before, cover, and refrigerate them. When you’re ready, just pop them in the oven to bake.

Q3: Can I freeze this dish?

A3: Definitely! After baking, let the shells cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, just bake from frozen!

Q4: How do I store leftovers?

A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to get that melty, cheesy top again!

Q5: Can I double the recipe?

A5: Of course! Just use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time slightly. Your guests will be thrilled!

Q6: Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

A6: Yes! Just swap out the pasta shells for gluten-free options, and you’re good to go.

Conclusion

Seafood Stuffed Shells are the kind of dish that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to make. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will have everyone coming back for more. I hope you give it a try—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Print