Oh my goodness, have you ever tried Seafood Stuffed Shells? They’re like little boats of joy filled with a creamy, dreamy seafood mixture that’ll make your taste buds sing! Seriously, the combination of tender jumbo pasta shells, ricotta, shrimp, and crab all baked together in marinara sauce is a match made in heaven. My favorite part? The melted mozzarella and Parmesan on top that gets all bubbly and golden—it’s pure comfort food bliss! I remember the first time I made these for a dinner party. Everyone raved about them, and I felt like a superstar chef! Trust me, whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just a cozy weeknight dinner, these stuffed shells will steal the show. Let’s dive right into how to make them!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (creamy and rich for the perfect filling)
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped (make sure they’re nice and tender)
- 1 cup cooked crab meat (crab adds such a sweet flavor)
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (for that melty goodness on top)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (adds a lovely salty touch)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought, your choice!)
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better!)
- 1 teaspoon parsley, chopped (for a fresh finish)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t forget to season well!)
How to Prepare Seafood Stuffed Shells
Alright, let’s get cooking! Making these Seafood Stuffed Shells is easier than you might think, and the end result is just divine. Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a mouthwatering dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is key to getting those shells nice and bubbly!
- While the oven heats up, cook your jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Make sure to keep them al dente, as they’ll cook a bit more in the oven.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped shrimp, crab meat, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and sprinkle in some salt and pepper. Mix it all together until it’s really well combined. You want that filling to be luscious and flavorful!
- Once the shells are cooked and cooled a bit, it’s time to stuff them! Gently fill each shell with that creamy seafood mixture. Oh, the aroma is already fantastic!
- Grab a baking dish and spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Then, place the stuffed shells in the dish, and pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Don’t be shy with that sauce!
- Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top, because we all need some cheesy goodness, right?
- Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until everything is heated through and the cheese is bubbly and golden. You’ll want to keep an eye on it—trust me, the smell will have you drooling!
Once they’re done, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Seafood Stuffed Shells—you’ve earned it!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional information for these delightful Seafood Stuffed Shells. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this should give you a good idea!
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 20g
This dish packs a nice protein punch with the shrimp and crab, making it not just delicious but also satisfying! Perfect for a hearty meal that feels indulgent yet balanced. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
Tips for Success
To make your Seafood Stuffed Shells truly shine, here are a few tips I swear by! First, don’t overcook the pasta shells—keeping them al dente is crucial since they’ll continue to cook while baking. Also, feel free to get creative with your seafood; if you want to use scallops or even lobster, go for it! Just make sure everything is cooked beforehand.
Another little secret? Adding a splash of lemon juice to your seafood mixture brightens up the flavors beautifully. And don’t skip the marinara sauce! It’s not just for flavor; it keeps the shells moist while they bake. Finally, let the stuffed shells rest for a few minutes after baking before serving. This helps everything settle and makes for easier plating. Trust me, these simple tips will elevate your dish to the next level!
Variations
One of the things I love about Seafood Stuffed Shells is their flexibility! You can really make this dish your own with just a few simple tweaks. For starters, if you’re not a fan of shrimp or crab, you could easily swap in some cooked scallops or even lobster for a touch of luxury. Trust me, it’ll take your stuffed shells to a whole new level!
Feeling adventurous? Try adding some veggies to the mix! Spinach is a fantastic addition—just sauté it briefly before mixing it in with the seafood. You could also use chopped artichokes for a unique twist or even some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor. The options are endless!
If you want to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seafood mixture for a little kick. And for a creamy twist, mix in some cream cheese along with the ricotta—it adds a delightful richness. You can also play with the cheeses! A blend of fontina and goat cheese can create a beautifully tangy filling.
Finally, don’t forget about the toppings! A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or dill can add a refreshing pop right before serving. The beauty of Seafood Stuffed Shells is that you can experiment and find your perfect combination. So, get creative and have fun with it!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up these delightful Seafood Stuffed Shells, let’s talk about how to make your meal even more fabulous! I love serving them with a simple side salad to balance the richness. A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and brightness that complements the creamy shells perfectly.
If you want to keep it cozy, a side of garlic bread is a must! Just imagine dipping that warm, buttery bread into the leftover marinara sauce—it’s heavenly! You could also serve a side of steamed asparagus or sautéed green beans for a pop of color and nutrition. The slight bitterness of these greens pairs beautifully with the seafood flavors.
For drinks, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc is an excellent choice. Its acidity cuts through the richness of the dish and enhances the seafood flavors. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime will keep things refreshing.
And don’t forget dessert! A light lemon sorbet or a classic tiramisu can be a delightful way to round out your meal. Trust me, with these pairings, your Seafood Stuffed Shells dinner will be a complete culinary experience that everyone will remember!
FAQ Section
Can I make Seafood Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since they’ll be going in cold.
What type of seafood can I use?
You can get creative with your seafood choices! Besides shrimp and crab, consider using scallops, lobster, or even a mix of your favorites. Just make sure everything is cooked beforehand, as the shells will only be in the oven long enough to heat through.
Can I freeze Seafood Stuffed Shells?
Yes! If you want to make a batch for later, just assemble the shells without baking them, then freeze them in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, adding some extra time to ensure they’re heated through.
What can I serve with Seafood Stuffed Shells?
These stuffed shells pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A light white wine or sparkling water can also complement the dish beautifully. Don’t forget dessert—something light like sorbet would be perfect!
How do I know when the stuffed shells are done?
You’ll know they’re done when the cheese is bubbly and golden and the sauce is hot throughout. If you want to be sure, you can use a food thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
Let’s break down the ingredients a bit more, because knowing what you’re working with can really elevate your Seafood Stuffed Shells! First off, the jumbo pasta shells are essential for holding all that delicious filling. If you can’t find them, feel free to use manicotti shells instead—just adjust the cooking time as needed.
The ricotta cheese is the creamy base of our filling. If you want to lighten things up, you can swap in cottage cheese that’s been blended until smooth. For a plant-based option, look for a vegan ricotta made from almonds or tofu.
As for the seafood, don’t hesitate to mix and match! If you’re not a fan of shrimp or crab, cooked lobster, scallops, or even a seafood medley from your local market will work beautifully. Just make sure everything is pre-cooked to keep it safe and tender.
The mozzarella cheese is all about that glorious melt. If you want a bit more flavor, try using provolone or fontina cheese instead. For a dairy-free option, there are some great plant-based mozzarella alternatives available!
For the marinara sauce, you can use store-bought for convenience, but if you’ve got time, homemade is always a hit! A simple mix of crushed tomatoes, garlic, and basil will elevate the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a creamy Alfredo sauce for a rich twist!
Finally, don’t forget about seasoning! The garlic and parsley add fantastic flavor, but you could also experiment with fresh dill or even a pinch of old bay seasoning for a seafood-inspired kick. You’ve got the freedom to customize based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences. Cooking should be fun and flexible—so go for it!
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Seafood Stuffed Shells: 7 Dreams of Comfort in Every Bite
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Seafood
Description
Seafood stuffed shells are pasta shells filled with a creamy seafood mixture and baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup cooked crab meat
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, shrimp, crab meat, mozzarella, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the seafood mixture.
- Spread marinara sauce in a baking dish.
- Place stuffed shells in the dish and cover with remaining marinara.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through.
Notes
- You can substitute other seafood as desired.
- Try adding spinach for extra flavor.
- Serve with garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Seafood Stuffed Shells