Prepare to impress with a dish that looks effortlessly gourmet but is surprisingly simple to create: our exquisite Seafood Stuffed Shells. This recipe is designed to deliver maximum flavor without the fuss, featuring a rich, creamy seafood filling nestled inside perfectly cooked jumbo pasta shells, all baked to golden perfection under a blanket of melted cheese. Say goodbye to bland meals; these Seafood Stuffed Shells are seasoned to perfection, offering a delightful culinary experience that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Whether you’re planning a special dinner party or simply seeking to elevate your weeknight meal, these creamy seafood pasta shells offer an elegant solution. The combination of succulent seafood, a velvety sauce, and tender pasta creates a harmonious symphony of textures and flavors that’s both comforting and luxurious. It’s a true showstopper that proves fancy food can indeed be easy to make.
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If you’re a fan of comforting pasta dishes, you’ll also adore my One Pot Chicken Broccoli Alfredo and Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipes, which offer similar ease and deliciousness.
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love These Seafood Stuffed Shells
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“Ms. Brandi, you have done it again! Simply delicious. Give me ALL the ingredients. This pasta and sauce was so flavorful. I’m no chef, but your recipes make me feel like I am. Always super easy to follow and I love the tips you include in the blog as well. Can’t wait to see more of your restaurant quality recipes like this one. Thank you for sharing!”
~Malika
This testimonial perfectly encapsulates why our readers adore this recipe. It’s not just about the incredible taste; it’s about the confidence it instills in home cooks to create restaurant-quality meals. These Seafood Stuffed Shells are a testament to how simple ingredients, combined with thoughtful preparation, can yield truly extraordinary results. The rich flavors, creamy texture, and elegant presentation make this dish a favorite for both special occasions and comforting weeknight dinners.
Key Ingredients for Seafood Stuffed Shells
Crafting these delectable Seafood Stuffed Shells relies on a balance of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and achieving the perfect creamy texture that defines this dish. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Jumbo Pasta Shells: These large, concave pasta shells are essential for holding the generous seafood filling. Opt for your preferred variety, such as traditional semolina or whole wheat, and cook them according to package directions, ensuring they remain al dente to prevent them from becoming flimsy during stuffing and baking.
- Assorted Seafood: The undisputed star of the dish! For a truly luxurious experience, I recommend a blend of succulent shrimp, delicate jumbo lump crab meat, and tender lobster. However, this recipe is incredibly versatile; feel free to customize your seafood selection with scallops, mussels, or any other favorites.
- Cream Cheese: Forming the rich and tangy base of our filling, cream cheese provides an unparalleled creamy texture. It acts as a binder, ensuring all the delicious seafood and seasonings stay perfectly tucked within the pasta shells.
- Fresh Spinach: Not only does spinach add a wonderful earthy flavor, but it also introduces a vibrant pop of color and a boost of nutrients. If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it to remove any excess water that could thin out the filling.
- Mozzarella Cheese: This classic melting cheese is key for that irresistible gooey, cheesy pull. It forms a beautiful golden crust when baked, complementing the rich filling.
- Parmesan Reggiano Cheese: Aged Parmesan elevates the flavor profile with its distinct nutty, salty, and umami notes. It adds depth and sophistication to both the filling and the creamy sauce, creating a truly luxurious experience.
- Butter: The foundation of our luscious cream sauce, butter provides richness and helps create a smooth, velvety consistency.
- All-Purpose Flour: When combined with butter, flour forms a roux, the essential thickening agent for our sauce. This ensures a silky, luxurious texture that coats every shell beautifully.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: For an indulgent and incredibly creamy sauce, heavy whipping cream is a must. It contributes to a velvety smoothness that perfectly enrobes the seafood filling.
- Milk: A touch of milk helps to lighten the sauce slightly, ensuring it remains creamy and achieves the ideal pourable consistency without being too heavy.
- Dry White Wine or Broth: This ingredient is all about enhancing flavor. A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio adds a subtle acidity and complexity. If you prefer to omit alcohol, a good quality vegetable or chicken broth makes an excellent substitute, contributing savory depth.
- Garlic: A non-negotiable for any pasta dish, garlic is a foundational aromatic that infuses both the sauce and the filling with its irresistible savory notes.
- Italian Seasoning: A fragrant blend of dried herbs such as oregano, basil, and thyme, Italian seasoning is the perfect complement to creamy pasta sauces, adding classic Mediterranean warmth.
- Old Bay Seasoning: This iconic blend of spices is a seafood lover’s secret weapon, adding a distinctive savory and slightly spicy kick that perfectly enhances the flavors of shrimp, crab, and lobster.
- Salt & Pepper to Taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors into harmony. Always taste and adjust as you go!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Seafood Stuffed Shells
Creating these delightful Seafood Stuffed Shells is a straightforward process, broken down into a few manageable steps. Remember, detailed measurements and full instructions are always available in the recipe card towards the bottom of this post.
- Prepare the Pasta Shells: Begin by cooking your jumbo pasta shells until they are al dente. This Italian term, meaning “firm to the bite,” is crucial for perfectly structured pasta. Overcooked pasta can become sticky, flimsy, and challenging to stuff, so follow package instructions carefully and err on the side of slightly undercooked, as the shells will bake further in the oven.
- Start the Cream Sauce: In a skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux, stirring continuously until it thickens into a paste. This forms the base for your rich sauce.
- Build the Sauce Flavor: Gradually add the heavy cream, almond milk (or your preferred milk), and dry white wine (or broth) to the roux, stirring until smooth. Incorporate minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian Seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue stirring until the sauce is velvety and smooth, then set it aside.
- Cook the Seafood: Heat the same skillet over medium-high heat with the remaining butter. Add the chopped shrimp and lobster meat. Sauté for 3-4 minutes on each side until the seafood is fully cooked through and opaque.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, the cooked shrimp and lobster, lump crab meat, finely chopped fresh spinach, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, Parmesan Reggiano cheese, Old Bay Seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Assemble the Dish: Pour the prepared creamy pasta sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish, spreading it evenly. Carefully fill each cooked jumbo pasta shell with a generous amount of the seafood mixture (approximately 1 ½ to 2 tablespoons per shell). Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce in the baking dish.
- Add the Final Cheese Layer: Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the stuffed shells.
- Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven. The foil helps keep the shells moist and tender. After the initial baking time, remove the foil and continue baking for a few more minutes until the cheese is beautifully melted and lightly golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. This helps the sauce set and prevents the shells from falling apart.
Crafting the Perfect Cheese Sauce
The cheese sauce is truly one of the most vital elements of this Seafood Stuffed Shells recipe, providing the luscious, unifying backbone of the entire dish. A truly exceptional cheese sauce begins with a well-made roux. A roux, which is a simple yet effective combination of melted butter and flour, serves as the thickening agent, giving the sauce its desired body and helping to bind all the flavors together harmoniously.
Once your roux is established, you’ll gradually whisk in milk and heavy whipping cream, transforming it into a rich and creamy liquid. The addition of high-quality cheeses, particularly grated Parmesan Reggiano, will infuse the sauce with its signature savory, nutty depth. Finally, generous seasoning with Italian Seasoning, salt, and pepper is paramount. This careful seasoning ensures that the cheese sauce is not merely a texture provider but a significant source of the overall delicious flavor, elevating every bite of your Seafood Stuffed Shells to a gourmet experience.
Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe
Brandi Crawford
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Essential Equipment
- Ceramic Baking Dish
- 9×13 Baking Dish
Ingredients
Pasta Sauce (You can also use 1 cup of your favorite jarred sauce if you don’t want to make your own.)
- 1 ½ tablespoons butter Divided in 1 tablespoon and ½ tablespoon.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk Any milk will work.
- ¼ cup dry white wine I use Pinot Grigio. Wine will provide immense flavor. You can substitute with any broth.
- 3 garlic cloves Minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan Reggiano Cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian Seasoning You can start with ¼ teaspoon and taste repeatedly. Adjust to taste.
- salt and pepper to taste
Shells and Filling
- 20 jumbo pasta shells A 12oz package will have more than enough shells.
- 8 oz raw shrimp Peeled and deveined. Chopped into ½-1 inch chunks.
- 8 oz lobster meat
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 8 oz lump crab meat
- 2 cups finely chopped fresh spinach You can also use frozen. Be sure to thaw and drain it first.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Divided into ½ cup portions.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan Reggiano Cheese
- 1 ½ teaspoons Old Bay Seasoning Substitute your favorite seafood seasoning if preferred.
- salt and pepper to taste
- foil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
Pasta Shells
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions, but remove them from the heat approximately 2 minutes before the recommended cook time. This ensures they are al dente and prevents overcooking, which can lead to sticky, flimsy shells difficult to stuff and prone to breaking during baking. If the package offers a range, aim for 1 minute before the lower end of the suggested time. Once cooked, immediately cool the shells in cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together.
Cream Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the all-purpose flour and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth, thickened roux.
- Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, unsweetened almond milk (or your choice of milk), and dry white wine (or broth). Continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken slightly.
- Stir in the minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian Seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. It is important to taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed to ensure a flavorful base for the dish. Once smooth and perfectly seasoned, remove from heat and set aside.
Seafood and Filling
- Return the skillet to medium-high heat. Melt the remaining ½ tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the chopped raw shrimp and lobster meat to the skillet.
- Cook the shrimp and lobster for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are pink, opaque, and fully cooked through. Remove the cooked seafood from the skillet and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, the cooked shrimp and lobster, lump crab meat, finely chopped fresh spinach, ½ cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan Reggiano cheese, Old Bay Seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until they are well incorporated and form a cohesive filling.
Shell Assembly and Bake
- Pour the prepared cream sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a bed for the shells.
- Carefully load each cooked jumbo pasta shell with the rich seafood mixture. Aim for about 1 ½ to 2 tablespoons of filling per shell. Arrange the filled shells snugly in the baking dish over the pasta sauce. Keep a moist towel nearby to clean your hands as you stuff the shells, as it can get a bit messy.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the stuffed shells.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the shells to continue softening. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and a light golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. This brief cooling period helps the sauce and filling set, making it easier to serve.
Video Guide
While an embedded video is not available in this static HTML, imagine a helpful step-by-step video here demonstrating each stage of preparing these delicious Seafood Stuffed Shells, from cooking the pasta to assembling and baking the dish. Visual cues often make complex recipes much simpler to follow.
Chef Notes and Tips
- Seafood Flexibility: This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to substitute the recommended seafood (shrimp, crab, lobster) with any other seafood you prefer. For instance, you could use 1 ½ pounds of shrimp and omit the crab and lobster entirely for a Shrimp Stuffed Shells dish. Scallops or even a mix of white fish could also work well.
- Filling Yield: Using approximately 1 ½ tablespoons of seafood filling per shell typically results in about 18-20 beautifully stuffed shells, providing ample servings for your meal.
- Old Bay Seasoning Application: You have flexibility with when to add the Old Bay seasoning. It can be added directly to the shrimp and lobster while they are cooking to infuse flavor from the start, or it can be incorporated into the seafood filling mixture along with the cream cheese and other ingredients. Both methods yield delicious results.
- Achieving Al Dente Pasta: The term “al dente” means “to the tooth” and describes perfectly cooked pasta that is firm yet tender. Most pasta packages provide instructions for achieving this texture. It’s crucial not to overcook the pasta shells, especially since they will be baked again. Overcooked shells become sticky, flimsy, and incredibly difficult to stuff without tearing. If your shells are mushy, they were likely overcooked.
- Cooling the Shells: Immediately after cooking the pasta, cool the shells completely under cold running water. This crucial step halts the cooking process, prevents them from becoming mushy, and stops them from sticking together, making them much easier to handle and stuff.
- The Importance of Foil: Covering the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil during the initial baking period is key. The foil traps moisture and steam, preventing the pasta shells from drying out and ensuring they remain tender and soft. Without the foil, the top layer of cheese can brown too quickly, and the shells can become hard and crisp around the edges before the filling is thoroughly heated and melded. Remove the foil only for the last few minutes to get that perfect golden-brown cheese topping.
Nutrition
Serving: 3 stuffed shells
Calories: 538 kcal
Carbohydrates: 29 g
Protein: 39 g
Fat: 31 g
Nutrition Data
Macros and nutritional values are provided as a courtesy and are estimated. They should not be taken as a guarantee. This information is typically calculated using third-party nutrition calculators like MyFitnessPal.com. To ensure the most accurate nutritional information for your specific recipe, it is highly recommended that you calculate the values using the precise ingredients and brands you use, with your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for verifying the accuracy, completeness, and utility of any nutritional information provided.
Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe Variations and Optional Add-Ins
While our core recipe for Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells is a masterpiece on its own, it also serves as a fantastic canvas for culinary creativity. Don’t hesitate to experiment with these delightful variations and optional add-ins to tailor the dish to your taste preferences or to utilize ingredients you have on hand. Each addition can bring a unique twist to this already incredible meal:
- Bacon: Crispy crumbled bacon bits added to the filling or sprinkled on top before baking introduce a smoky, salty crunch that pairs wonderfully with seafood.
- Chicken: For those who prefer a surf-and-turf option or want to stretch the seafood, shredded cooked chicken can be added to the filling.
- Scallops: Pan-seared scallops can be a luxurious addition to the seafood mix, adding a sweet and tender bite.
- Caramelized Onions: Slowly cooked until golden and sweet, caramelized onions bring a profound depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness to the filling.
- Smoked Gouda Cheese: Swap out some of the mozzarella for smoked Gouda to add a rich, smoky flavor and incredible creaminess.
- Gruyère Cheese: This nutty, earthy Swiss cheese melts beautifully and adds a sophisticated depth to the cheese sauce or as a topping.
- Sundried Tomatoes: Finely chopped sundried tomatoes (oil-packed and drained) provide a concentrated burst of sweet and tangy flavor, along with a beautiful crimson hue.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice in the filling or sauce brightens all the flavors and adds a welcome zing, especially with seafood.
- Olives: Sliced Kalamata or green olives can introduce a briny, salty punch that complements the rich seafood and creamy sauce.
- Capers: These tiny, briny flower buds add a tangy, salty, and slightly pungent flavor that cuts through the richness of the dish beautifully.
- Artichokes: Chopped artichoke hearts (canned or jarred, drained well) add a tender texture and a subtle, earthy flavor.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms, like cremini or shiitake, contribute an umami-rich earthiness.
- Roasted Bell Peppers: Sweet and slightly smoky roasted red or yellow bell peppers, diced, add color and a tender texture.
- Fresh Basil: Stir in fresh chopped basil at the end for an aromatic, peppery sweetness.
- Fresh Parsley: A garnish of fresh chopped parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note and vibrant color.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce or filling adds a subtle warmth.
- Cajun Seasoning: For a bold, spicy, and aromatic kick, replace or supplement the Old Bay with Cajun seasoning, transforming the flavor profile.
Expert Tips for Perfect Shrimp and Crab Stuffed Shells
Tips for Cooking the Pasta
To ensure your jumbo pasta shells are perfectly cooked for stuffing and baking, remove them from the boiling water approximately 2 minutes prior to the recommended cooking time on the package. Since the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, this slight undercooking ensures an ideal al dente texture. Overcooking at this stage can lead to mushy, difficult-to-handle shells. Some pasta brands even provide specific instructions for pasta intended for baking; if available, follow those guidelines for the best results.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp? How to Thaw.
Yes, you absolutely can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. However, it’s crucial to thaw them properly before cooking. The best method is to place the frozen shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are completely defrosted. Avoid using hot water, as this can start to cook the shrimp prematurely and affect their texture.
Why Do You Cover it in Foil?
Covering the baking dish with aluminum foil is a vital step in this recipe. The foil acts as a lid, trapping moisture and steam within the dish. This prevents the pasta shells from drying out and becoming hard, while also ensuring the creamy filling stays rich and tender. Without the foil, the top layer of cheese could brown too quickly, and the shells and filling might not heat through evenly. The foil allows everything to cook properly, creating a tender and succulent dish before you remove it for that final golden, bubbly finish.
What type of lobster works best?
For convenience and quality, I often opt for pre-cracked, wild-caught lobster claw and knuckle meat. This saves time and effort while still providing excellent flavor and texture. Alternatively, you can certainly use fresh or frozen lobster tails, which you would need to cook and chop yourself. When purchasing lobster, always prioritize cold water varieties, typically sourced from the East Coast or Canada. Lobster from colder waters tends to have firmer meat, which becomes wonderfully tender when cooked correctly, offering a superior taste and texture compared to warm water lobster.
What type of crab works best?
I highly recommend using lump crab meat for its delicate flavor and substantial texture; you can usually find it in the refrigerated seafood section of your grocery store. However, imitation crab meat, sometimes labeled “krab meat,” is also a widely available option. While imitation crab is made from processed fish (surimi) that has been deboned and minced into a paste, it can be a convenient and more budget-friendly choice. It often has crab extract added for flavor, but it does not contain actual crab meat. The decision is yours, based on preference and availability. You can learn more about what imitation crab is if you’re curious.
How Long to Bake
The Seafood Stuffed Shells should be baked for an initial 20 minutes while covered with foil. After this, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes. This final uncovered period allows the cheese on top to melt beautifully, become bubbly, and achieve a light golden-brown color, adding a delicious crust to the dish.
Can You Make it Ahead
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can fully assemble the Seafood Stuffed Shells up to 8 hours before you plan to bake them. To do so, prepare the shells and filling, arrange them in the baking dish with the sauce, and cover tightly with foil. Store the assembled dish in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to hold off on adding the final layer of cheese until just before baking, as cheese can lose its optimal texture when chilled for extended periods. When you’re ready to bake, simply add the cheese and proceed with the baking instructions. Keep in mind that you may need to add an additional 10-15 minutes to the overall baking time since the dish will be chilled when it goes into the oven.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers of your delicious Seafood Stuffed Shells can be conveniently stored in the refrigerator. Ensure they are in an airtight container or tightly covered with plastic wrap or foil. When stored correctly, they will remain fresh and tasty for 3-4 days.
How to Reheat
When reheating, you’ll notice that the creamy sauce will naturally thicken considerably after refrigeration. To reheat, you can use either a microwave or an oven. For microwave reheating, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat until warm, stirring if necessary. For oven reheating, place the stuffed shells in an oven-safe dish, possibly with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce, cover with foil, and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until thoroughly warmed through.
Freezer Tips
Yes, you can freeze this dish! To freeze, ensure the assembled (but unbaked, or fully baked and cooled) dish is tightly covered and sealed, then store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, defrost the dish overnight in the refrigerator. Because this recipe contains dairy, you might observe some slight separation in the sauce upon reheating. A gentle stir and perhaps a touch of cream or broth can help restore its smooth consistency.
What to Serve With Your Seafood Stuffed Shells
These rich and creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are a satisfying meal on their own, but pairing them with a fresh side dish can elevate your dining experience even further. Here are some complementary options that balance the richness of the pasta with lightness and texture:
- Crispy Air Fryer Green Beans: A quick and healthy side that adds a fresh crunch.
- Golden Air Fryer Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce.
- Creamy Southern Coleslaw: Offers a refreshing, tangy contrast to the rich pasta.
- Flavorful Grilled Asparagus in Foil: A simple, elegant vegetable side that cooks with minimal fuss.
- Hearty Roasted Ranch Potatoes: For a more substantial meal, these flavorful potatoes are a perfect accompaniment.
More Irresistible Seafood Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with these Seafood Stuffed Shells and are eager to explore more delicious seafood dishes, you’re in luck! Here are some other tried-and-true recipes that celebrate the amazing flavors of the ocean, perfect for expanding your culinary repertoire:
- Perfectly Baked Crab Legs: A simple yet elegant way to enjoy tender crab.
- Decadent Seafood Lasagna: Layers of pasta, cheese, and a medley of seafood.
- Comforting Seafood Pot Pie: A creamy, savory classic with a flaky crust.
- Crispy Fried Shrimp Recipe: A classic appetizer or main dish everyone loves.
- Savory Seafood Cornbread Dressing Recipe: A unique and flavorful twist on traditional dressing.
These recipes offer a diverse range of seafood experiences, from quick weeknight meals to impressive dishes perfect for entertaining. Each one is designed with flavor and ease in mind, ensuring your kitchen adventures are always delicious.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this culinary journey through our Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells recipe. It’s truly a dish that combines the elegance of fine dining with the comfort of home cooking, proving that incredible flavor doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, these stuffed pasta shells are sure to become a beloved favorite. Happy cooking!