Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Delight your taste buds with these Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells! This dish features jumbo pasta shells filled with a luscious seafood mixture, making it perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. The rich flavors and creamy texture create a memorable meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of shrimp and crab offers a unique taste that elevates any dinner table.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or as part of a larger spread at parties.
• Cheesy Delight: The melted mozzarella and Parmesan on top provide an irresistible cheesy crust.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Enjoy the leftovers the next day – they taste just as good!

Tools and Preparation

To create your Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells, having the right tools on hand will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Large pot
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and helps achieve that golden, bubbly cheese topping.
• Large pot: Boiling the pasta requires ample space, so a large pot is essential for cooking the shells properly.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine all ingredients seamlessly without spills.

Ingredients

Delicious jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich and creamy seafood mixture, topped with a delightful cheese blend, and baked to perfection.

For the Pasta Shells

• 12 jumbo pasta shells

For the Filling

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
• 1 cup cooked crab meat
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Sauce

• 2 cups marinara sauce

How to Make Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
2. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the shells carefully and set them aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl:
– Combine ricotta cheese, chopped shrimp, crab meat, grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, heavy cream, parsley, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
– Mix well until everything is combined thoroughly.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

• Carefully stuff each cooked shell with the seafood mixture using a spoon.
• Arrange the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese

• Pour marinara sauce over all stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered.
• Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella on top for that cheesy goodness.

Step 6: Bake

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
2. Bake for 20 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
3. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

Let cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells!

How to Serve Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Serving Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with thoughtful accompaniments. These stuffed shells are rich and flavorful, making them perfect for various serving suggestions.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the stuffed shells.

Offer Garlic Bread

• Warm, buttery garlic bread complements the dish and provides a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy filling.

Serve with Steamed Vegetables

• Lightly steamed broccoli or asparagus adds color and nutrients, creating a well-rounded meal.

Include Lemon Wedges

• A squeeze of fresh lemon over the stuffed shells brightens the flavors and enhances the seafood taste.

Top with Extra Cheese

• Garnishing with additional grated Parmesan or mozzarella just before serving adds an extra layer of creaminess.

How to Perfect Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

To achieve the ultimate Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells, follow these helpful tips for a delicious outcome.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh seafood and herbs elevate the flavor profile significantly compared to frozen or dried options.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooking the pasta ensures that it maintains its structure during baking.
• Add More Herbs: Incorporating fresh herbs like basil or dill in the filling enhances freshness and complexity.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Mixing different cheeses, such as fontina or Gouda can create a richer flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your filling before stuffing; adjust salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.
• Let It Rest: Allowing your dish to rest after baking helps firm up the filling for easier serving.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Complementing your Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells with side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Butter Shrimp: Quick-cooked shrimp in garlic butter echoes the seafood theme while adding more flavor.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts in olive oil and roast until crispy for a savory side.
4. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This colorful salad, packed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta adds a healthy touch.
5. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini drizzled with olive oil makes for a flavorful vegetable option.
6. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs provides a light and fragrant side that pairs well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells, it’s easy to make some common missteps. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the al dente pasta: Overcooking the shells can lead to a mushy texture. Follow package instructions closely and aim for an al dente finish.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold ingredients can affect the baking process. Make sure all ingredients, especially dairy, are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season the seafood mixture can result in bland stuffed shells. Taste your filling and adjust salt and spices as needed before stuffing.
• Overstuffing the shells: While it’s tempting to fill each shell generously, overstuffing can lead to messy results and uneven cooking. Aim for a moderate amount of filling in each shell.
• Neglecting to cover while baking: Forgetting to cover the dish with foil initially can lead to burnt cheese on top. Cover it first, then uncover for browning towards the end.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Cooling Down: Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

• Duration: Freeze in a freezer-safe container or tightly wrapped for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shells in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place one or two shells in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth. Cover and steam the shells for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells:

Can I use different seafood in Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells?

Yes! Feel free to mix or substitute shrimp and crab with other seafood like scallops or lobster according to your preference.

What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

Jumbo pasta shells are ideal because they hold the filling well. However, you can use cannelloni or even manicotti as alternatives.

How do I make Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Prepare the stuffed shells and assemble them in your baking dish. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I add vegetables to my Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells?

Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or diced bell peppers can be great additions that enhance both flavor and nutrition.

What sides pair well with Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells?

A simple green salad or garlic bread complements this dish beautifully, adding freshness and texture.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are a delightful main course that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Their rich flavors are sure to impress anyone at your table. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the cheeses used—making this dish truly your own!