Creamy Seafood Stuffed Pasta Shells Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are a comforting and elegant dish perfect for seafood lovers. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a rich mixture of seafood and cheese, then baked in a luscious cream sauce. This recipe is simple yet impressive for any dinner occasion.

Ingredients

• 12 large pasta shells
• 2 cups mixed seafood (shrimp, crab, scallops), chopped
• 2 cups cream sauce
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (mozzarella or a blend)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let cool slightly.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, combine the chopped seafood with half of the cheese.
3. Step 3: Stuff each shell generously with the seafood mixture.
4. Step 4: Spread a thin layer of cream sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top.
5. Step 5: Pour the remaining cream sauce evenly over the shells and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
6. Step 6: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
7. Step 7: Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mixture of your favorite seafood for added texture and flavor.
• For extra richness, add a handful of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the filling.
• Substitute cream sauce with a homemade béchamel or Alfredo sauce for a unique twist.
• Gluten-free pasta shells work well for those with dietary restrictions.

Storage

Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through to maintain the creamy texture without drying out.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare seafood stuffed shells in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells a day ahead, cover them, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.

What can I use if I don’t have cream sauce?

You can substitute cream sauce with a white béchamel sauce or a mixture of cream cheese and milk to achieve a similar creamy texture.

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Pasta Shells Recipe

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4.4 from 141 reviews

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are a decadent Italian-inspired dish featuring large pasta shells filled with a rich and flavorful seafood mixture, baked in a luscious cream sauce and topped with melted cheese. Perfect for a comforting dinner that combines tender pasta, savory seafood, and creamy cheese, delivering a deliciously satisfying meal.

• Author: Stella
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

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Pasta

• 12 large pasta shells

Seafood Filling

• 1 cup cooked mixed seafood (such as shrimp, crab, and scallops), chopped
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Cream Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Topping

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta Shells: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta shells until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Seafood Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped cooked seafood, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
3. Stuff the Shells: Carefully fill each cooked shell with the seafood mixture, ensuring they are generously filled but not overflowing.
4. Make the Cream Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and add heavy cream, stirring constantly until it begins to simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Assemble the Dish: Spread a thin layer of cream sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish and pour the remaining cream sauce evenly over them. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled dish uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through.
7. Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

• You can substitute the seafood mix with just shrimp or crab if preferred.
• For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Make sure to not overfill the shells to avoid spilling during baking.
• Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven.

Keywords: seafood stuffed shells, creamy stuffed pasta, baked pasta shells, Italian seafood recipe, creamy seafood pasta bake