Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells is a delicious and decadent dish that combines the rich flavors of seafood with cheesy goodness in a pasta shell. Every bite is bursting with flavor, making it a meal that will leave everyone at the table satisfied. This recipe transforms the classic stuffed shells into a seafood delight, perfect for special occasions or family gatherings. The combination of creamy sauce and savory seafood creates a delightful experience for your taste buds.
If you’re a fan of seafood and pasta, this dish will undoubtedly become a favorite. The first time you serve Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells, you’ll receive rave reviews, and it won’t take long for your loved ones to request it again. With just the right amount of creaminess, savory flavors, and delightful textures, this recipe is perfect for any gathering. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive celebration, these stuffed shells promise to impress.
As you dive into this recipe, you will see why Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells deserves a place in your meal rotation. Get ready to embark on a cooking adventure that will leave your home filled with wonderful aromas and happy faces.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells offers a perfect blend of ingredients and flavors with numerous benefits. Here are some fantastic reasons why you’ll fall in love with this dish:
1. Rich and Flavorful: The combination of various seafood creates a mouthwatering taste that is hard to resist.
2. Comfort Food: This recipe is the epitome of comfort food, bringing together pasta, seafood, and a rich cream sauce.
3. Impressive Presentation: Stuffed shells topped with sauce and cheese look stunning, making them an eye-catching centerpiece on your table.
4. Easy to Prepare: Despite its gourmet appearance, the recipe is straightforward and easy to follow.
5. Customizable: Feel free to swap out seafood types, adjust spices, or add vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
6. Ideal for Gatherings: Perfect for serving a crowd or making delightful leftovers for the week.
Each aspect of Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells invites everyone to enjoy a unique culinary experience filled with creamy texture and seafood flavors that delight the senses.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells is a delightful process and doesn’t require too much time. Here’s a breakdown of the time required for this incredible dish:
– Preparation Time: 30 minutes
– Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
– Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes
These times may vary depending on your cooking experience and kitchen equipment, but this framework should help you plan your meal effectively.

Ingredients

– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
– 1 cup cooked scallops, chopped
– 1 cup crab meat, shredded
– 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells is an enjoyable task. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped shrimp, chopped scallops, crab meat, half of the mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
4. Stuff the Shells: Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the seafood mixture. Place stuffed shells in the prepared baking dish, opening side up.
5. Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix heavy cream and marinara sauce. Pour the sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered.
6. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the shells, along with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Garnish: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with additional fresh parsley before serving.
These steps lead to a wonderful dish that captures the essence of indulgent comfort food.

How to Serve

To elevate your dining experience with Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells, consider the following serving suggestions:
1. Plate Presentation: Serve the stuffed shells neatly on a plate, spooning extra sauce over the top to enhance visual appeal.
2. Accompaniments: Pair with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to complement the dish perfectly.
3. Wine Pairing: A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the flavors of seafood.
4. Garnish: Consider garnishing each plate with finely chopped parsley or basil for a fresh touch.
5. Make it a Meal: Serve alongside a light soup or appetizer for a complete dining experience.
By paying attention to presentation and accompaniments, you can make your Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells a memorable centerpiece for any gathering.

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Seafood: For the best flavor, opt for fresh seafood rather than frozen whenever possible. This enhances the overall taste of your Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells.
– Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the jumbo shells just until al dente. This prevents them from becoming mushy during the baking process.
– Season Well: Properly seasoning the filling and sauce is key. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper to ensure a flavorful dish.
– Explore Sauce Options: While marinara works great, consider trying Alfredo or a seafood-based sauce for a unique twist.
– Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or dill can brighten the dish and add a pop of color.

Recipe Variation

Experimenting with ingredients can lead to delightful new versions of Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells. Here are a few variations you might enjoy:
1. Mixed Seafood Medley: Incorporate different types of seafood like lobster, mussels, or calamari for a gourmet touch.
2. Cheese Swap: Replace mozzarella with a blend of Italian cheeses like Fontina or Gruyère for enhanced flavor and creaminess.
3. Vegetarian Option: For a meatless meal, replace seafood with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and ricotta, making a delicious vegetarian version.

Freezing and Storage

Proper storage is essential for enjoying Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells later. Here’s how:
– Storage: Keep the dish covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures the stuffed shells remain fresh and flavorful.
– Freezing: To freeze, wrap the assembled but unbaked shells tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just add extra cooking time.

Special Equipment

Gathering the right tools can simplify the preparation of Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Large pot for boiling pasta
– Mixing bowls for combining ingredients
– A baking dish (9×13 inches) for baking
– Cooking spoon or spatula for mixing
– Aluminum foil for covering during baking

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While jumbo shells are traditional, you can use manicotti or cannelloni for a similar effect.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta shells and ensure all seafood and sauces are gluten-free as well.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Certainly! You can assemble the stuffed shells and store them in the fridge overnight before baking.

What if I don’t have seafood on hand?

Feel free to substitute with a combination of meats like chicken or a vegetarian filling for a different flavor profile.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual servings until hot.

Conclusion

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells is a delightful dish that combines the joys of pasta and seafood in a creamy sauce. It’s perfect for special occasions or simply when you’re in the mood for something delicious. The combination of flavors, cheese, and seafood creates a comfort food experience that is simply irresistible. Try making this elegant meal, and enjoy the rich flavors it brings to your table.

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