Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells: A Delicious Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are a delightful dish that brings the taste of the ocean right to your dinner table. As someone who has always been captivated by the rich flavors of seafood, I find that these stuffed shells offer a perfect blend of creamy goodness and savory seafood. Originating from Italian cuisine, stuffed pasta shells have become a beloved comfort food across various cultures, often filled with a variety of ingredients. However, the combination of seafood and a luscious cream sauce elevates this dish to a whole new level.

People adore creamy seafood stuffed shells not just for their exquisite taste but also for their delightful texture. The tender pasta shells cradle a rich filling of shrimp, crab, and creamy cheese, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to prepare, making them a convenient option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a comforting meal, these stuffed shells are sure to impress and satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients:

• 20 large pasta shells
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
• 1 cup cooked crab meat, shredded
• 1/2 cup cooked scallops, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Preparing the Pasta Shells

1. **Boil the Pasta**: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the large pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 2. **Drain and Cool**: Once cooked, drain the pasta shells in a colander and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside to cool completely.

Preparing the Filling

3. **Mix the Cheeses**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix them until well combined. 4. **Add the Seafood**: To the cheese mixture, add the chopped shrimp, crab meat, and scallops. Make sure the seafood is cooked and chopped into small pieces for easy stuffing. 5. **Season the Mixture**: Add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the bowl. Mix everything together until the seafood and seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.

Preparing the Creamy Sauce

6. **Make the Marinara Base**: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, pour in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will enhance the flavors of the sauce. 7. **Add the Cream**: After the marinara has simmered, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until it’s well combined and creamy. Remove from heat and set aside.

Assembling the Stuffed Shells

8. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your stuffed shells cook evenly and get that lovely golden top. 9. **Stuff the Shells**: Take a cooled pasta shell and carefully spoon the seafood and cheese mixture into each shell. Be generous, but don’t overfill them to avoid spillage during baking. Place the stuffed shells seam-side up in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. 10. **Add the Sauce**: Once all the shells are stuffed and arranged in the baking dish, pour the creamy marinara sauce evenly over the top of the shells. Make sure to cover them well, as this will keep them moist while baking. 11. **Top with Cheese**: For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle some additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the sauce. This will create a deliciously gooey and golden crust as it bakes.

Baking the Stuffed Shells

12. **Cover and Bake**: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. 13. **Uncover and Brown**: After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook. 14. **Let it Rest**: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time allows the filling to set a bit, making it easier to serve.

Serving the Dish

15. **Garnish**: Before serving, sprinkle some extra chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. This not only adds color but also enhances the flavor. 16

Conclusion:

In summary, these Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to impress their family or guests with a delicious and elegant dish. The combination of tender pasta shells filled with a rich, creamy seafood mixture creates a delightful experience that is both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these stuffed shells with a fresh garden salad and a glass of crisp white wine to elevate your dining experience. You can also experiment with variations by adding different seafood, such as crab or lobster, or even incorporating some spinach or artichokes into the filling for an extra burst of flavor. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how your Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells turn out and any unique twists you might add. Cooking is all about creativity and sharing, so don’t hesitate to post your photos and thoughts on social media. Happy cooking! Print