Seafood Stuffed Shells are like little pockets of joy, bursting with creamy, savory goodness that dances on your taste buds. Imagine a plate full of giant pasta shells, lovingly cradling a rich filling of seafood, cheesy delight, and a touch of herbs—it’s the kind of dish that elevates any meal into a celebration.
I still remember the first time I made these beauties for my family. The looks on their faces when they took that first bite were priceless—like I had just handed them the secret to happiness. Perfect for cozy dinners or fancy gatherings, Seafood Stuffed Shells promise an unforgettable experience that will have everyone asking for seconds (or thirds, if I’m being honest).
Why You'll Love This Seafood Stuffed Shells
- This incredible Seafood Stuffed Shells transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
Every time I serve these Seafood Stuffed Shells, my friends and family can’t help but rave about how delicious they are.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Large Pasta Shells: Choose sturdy shells that can hold the filling without breaking apart during cooking.
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Fresh Shrimp: Opt for raw shrimp; their sweetness enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Crab Meat: Use lump crab meat for its delicate texture and rich taste; it truly elevates the dish.
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Ricotta Cheese: Look for whole milk ricotta; it adds creaminess and a subtle richness to the stuffing.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan brings a nutty flavor; it’s worth skipping pre-grated versions here.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances the aroma and flavor; always go fresh instead of powdered.
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Fresh Herbs (Parsley & Basil): Fresh herbs bring brightness; don’t skip these as they add essential flavor nuances.
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Marinara Sauce: A smooth marinara complements the stuffed shells perfectly; homemade is great but store-bought works too!
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Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to sauté your garlic and enhance overall richness.
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Salt & Pepper: Always season well to balance flavors; taste as you go!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Seafood Stuffed Shells
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on your kitchen counter. Chop garlic finely and measure out shrimp and crab meat—this step makes assembly much smoother.
Cook the Pasta Shells: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain carefully so they don’t break apart; nobody wants sad shells in their lives.
Sauté Garlic and Seafood: In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute—then toss in shrimp and crab meat until just cooked through.
Create the Filling: In a large bowl, mix ricotta cheese with sautéed seafood, parmesan cheese, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper until well combined. The mixture should be creamy yet chunky enough to hold its shape.
Stuff Those Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you stuff each shell generously with the seafood filling using a spoon or piping bag. Place filled shells in a greased baking dish snugly together.
Add Marinara Sauce: Pour marinara sauce evenly over stuffed shells until fully covered. Top with additional parmesan if desired—it’s hard to go wrong with more cheese!
Bake and Serve: Cover with foil and bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Now you’re ready to impress everyone at your table! Just remember: patience is key when waiting for those scrumptious shells to cool slightly before serving.
With these delightful Seafood Stuffed Shells in hand, you’ll find yourself not only satisfied but also equipped with an impressive story to share at your next dinner party! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
You Must Know About Seafood Stuffed Shells
- This showstopping Seafood Stuffed Shells delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, start by boiling the pasta shells first while preparing your seafood filling. Sauté garlic and onion in olive oil, then add shrimp and crab meat until cooked. Mix everything with ricotta and seasonings, then stuff your shells with this delightful mixture before baking them in a creamy sauce.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the seafood for your favorites or use vegetables for a vegetarian twist! Add some fresh herbs like dill or parsley to enhance flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses—parmesan adds a nutty richness while mozzarella gives a gooey stretchiness that’s hard to resist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Seafood Stuffed Shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until heated through or pop them in the microwave if you’re feeling lazy—just don’t forget to cover them!
Chef's Helpful Tips for Seafood Stuffed Shells
- This professional-quality Seafood Stuffed Shells relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
Memories flood back when I think of my first attempt at making Seafood Stuffed Shells—it was chaos, but my friends devoured every bite! Their rave reviews made me realize how much love can be packed into comfort food.
FAQ
What seafood can I use in Seafood Stuffed Shells?
You can use shrimp, crab meat, scallops, or even lobster! Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences or what’s available at your local market. Just remember to chop them finely enough so they fit perfectly into those delightful shells.
Can I make Seafood Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare your shells and filling ahead of time and assemble them without baking. Cover tightly with foil and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before popping them into the oven when you’re ready for a delicious meal.
How do I prevent my stuffed shells from sticking together?
To keep your seafood stuffed shells from sticking together during cooking, ensure they are well-coated in sauce before baking. A light drizzle of olive oil on cooked shells helps too; just be careful not to overdo it!
Can I freeze Seafood Stuffed Shells?
Yes! Freeze uncooked stuffed shells by placing them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last up to three months—perfect for busy nights when you need a quick dinner solution!
Conclusion for Seafood Stuffed Shells
Seafood Stuffed Shells are not just a meal; they’re an experience filled with flavor and creativity. By mastering the cooking process and adding your personal touch, you’ll create a dish that shines at any gathering. With proper storage tips and reheating techniques, you’ll enjoy delicious leftovers too! So roll up your sleeves and get ready to wow your family or friends with this satisfying dish that’s sure to make waves at dinner time!
Seafood Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Seafood Stuffed Shells are a culinary delight that combines tender pasta with a creamy, savory filling of shrimp and crab, enhanced by aromatic herbs and rich cheeses. This dish transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal, perfect for cozy family dinners or elegant gatherings. Serve these beautiful shells smothered in marinara sauce for an impressive centerpiece that will leave your guests asking for more.
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 cup fresh shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup lump crab meat
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add shrimp and crab meat; cook until shrimp is pink.
- In a bowl, combine sautéed seafood with ricotta, Parmesan, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each shell generously with the seafood mixture and place them in a greased baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells; sprinkle with additional Parmesan if desired.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
