Growing up in Chicago, my kitchen was always the heart of our home. I remember the aroma of garlic and onions sizzling in the pan as my babcia stirred her famous pierogi filling. Those moments were magical, filled with laughter and the clinking of pots and pans. Fast forward to today, and I’m in my own cozy kitchen, creating a dish that combines my love for seafood with the comforting embrace of pasta: creamy seafood stuffed shells. This recipe is a family favorite, and every time I make it, I’m reminded of those joyful days with my babcia.
These creamy seafood stuffed shells are a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. They bring together the rich flavors of seafood with the creamy goodness of cheese, all nestled in tender pasta shells. It’s a dish that feels both luxurious and homey, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of seafood and pasta, this recipe is a match made in culinary heaven. The creamy seafood stuffed shells are:
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a dish that even beginners can master.
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan creates a luscious filling that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile: You can customize the seafood mix to your liking, whether it’s shrimp, crab, or a mix of both.
- Comforting: Perfect for a cozy family dinner, it’s a dish that warms both the heart and soul.
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 pound crab meat
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Optional Substitutions: You can use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a lighter option. Swap shrimp and crab for your favorite seafood mix.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Seafood: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add shrimp and cook until pink. Stir in crab meat and cook for another 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, and the cooked seafood mixture. Mix well.
- Fill the Shells: Stuff each pasta shell with the seafood and cheese mixture. Place them in a baking dish.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream over low heat. Pour over the stuffed shells.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy!
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with flavor and nutrition
- Perfect for any occasion
- Customizable to your taste preferences
- Budget-friendly ingredients
Expert Tips for Success
To achieve the perfect creamy seafood stuffed shells, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercook the shells as they will continue cooking in the oven.
- Use Fresh Seafood: Fresh shrimp and crab will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the filling before stuffing the shells to ensure it’s seasoned to your liking.
COOKING TOOLS
When I make this recipe, a few simple tools always make prep faster and cleaner. My go-to tool is the MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Chef’s Knife for chopping garlic and seafood with precision. For mixing the creamy filling, I love using the Silicone Utensils Set – 12 pcs, which keeps my non-stick pans scratch-free. These tools make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable!
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your creamy seafood stuffed shells:
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace seafood with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a veggie version.
- Cheese Swap: Try adding gouda or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These creamy seafood stuffed shells are a meal on their own, but here’s how you can elevate your dining experience:
- Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Chardonnay complements the seafood beautifully.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
What if I don’t have jumbo shells?
If you can’t find jumbo shells, use manicotti pasta as an alternative. The filling process is similar, and they taste just as delicious.
Final Thoughts
Crafting these creamy seafood stuffed shells is like weaving a tapestry of flavors that tell a story of comfort and joy. I hope this recipe brings as much warmth to your home as it does to mine. Gather your loved ones, share a meal, and create beautiful memories around the table.
👉 I hope you loved making these creamy seafood stuffed shells—they’re like a warm hug in a dish! If you’re in the mood for more comforting meals, check out my Chicken Alfredo Bake, Shrimp Scampi Linguine, and Lobster Mac and Cheese. Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group — and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!
Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells: 5 Delicious Recipes
Indulge in these creamy seafood stuffed shells, a delightful blend of shrimp, crab, and cheese nestled in tender pasta shells.