Seafood Stuffed Shells – creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor!

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If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that’s both luxurious and comforting, these Seafood Stuffed Shells are the answer! Imagine tender jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a creamy, cheesy seafood filling, baked to perfection, and topped with a rich, velvety sauce. This dish is perfect for special occasions, dinner parties, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something truly indulgent. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love Seafood Stuffed Shells

This dish is a seafood lover’s dream come true. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

  • Creamy and Cheesy: A luscious blend of cheeses and seafood creates an irresistible filling.
  • Packed with Flavor: The combination of shrimp, crab, and seasonings delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
  • Impressive Yet Easy: While it looks fancy, it’s surprisingly simple to make.
  • Versatile: Customize the seafood mix or sauce to suit your preferences.

How to Make Seafood Stuffed Shells

Follow this step-by-step guide to create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Stuffed Shells:

  • 20 jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
  • 1 cup cooked crab meat (or imitation crab)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For Topping:

  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta Shells:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Seafood Filling:

  • In a large bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, crab meat, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

3. Stuff the Shells:

  • Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the seafood mixture and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

4. Make the Sauce:

  • In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
  • Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
  • Stir in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.

5. Assemble and Bake:

  • Pour the sauce evenly over the stuffed shells in the baking dish.
  • Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Garnish and Serve:

  • Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Tips for the Best Seafood Stuffed Shells

  • Use Fresh Seafood: For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp and crab. However, frozen or imitation crab works well too.
  • Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the shells just until al dente, as they will continue to soften in the oven.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
  • Customize the Sauce: Add a splash of white wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

  • With Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
  • Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
  • Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the seafood flavors.
  • .

Conclusion

Seafood Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food for seafood lovers. With their creamy, cheesy filling and rich, velvety sauce, they’re a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving something indulgent, this recipe is easy to make and absolutely delicious. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of the ocean in every bite!

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