Deliciously Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe
Hey there! If you’re in the mood for something rich, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying, you’ve got to try making these creamy seafood stuffed shells. I absolutely love this dish because it combines tender jumbo pasta with shrimp, scallops, and a melty cheese filling. Trust me, every bite feels like a special treat, and it’s perfect for impressing your family or friends without spending hours in the kitchen!
Nutritional Benefits
Let’s take a moment to appreciate just how good this dish can be for you! Seafood is loaded with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart. Shrimp is a lean source of protein, while the creamy filling provides calcium and healthy fats. If you’re looking to incorporate more nutritious ingredients, consider adding in some spinach or kale to boost fiber and vitamin content. Your body will thank you!
Fun Variations to Make
- Mix Up The Seafood: Don’t be afraid to swap in different seafood like crab or lobster for a luxe twist!
- Veggie Lovers: Add chopped mushrooms or spinach to the filling for some extra veggies.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and some nutritional yeast to achieve a cheesy flavor without the milk products.
- Spice Lovers: If you prefer a little heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the filling.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to play with herbs or spices you love. Basil or dill could add a fresh touch!
The Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 pound scallops (optional)
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Paprika, for garnish
- Italian seasoning, optional
- 1 cup marinara sauce (for the bottom of the pan, if desired)
This recipe makes 4–6 servings, depending on portion size, with each person enjoying 2–3 stuffed shells.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Jumbo Shells: Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Then, drain the shells and set them aside.
- Prepare the Seafood Filling: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and scallops (if using) and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until they’re cooked through and opaque. Remove from heat and let cool for a couple of minutes.
- Make the Filling Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, ricotta cheese, half the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, and lemon juice. Toss in the cooled seafood, then season the mixture with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if you like. Give it a good mix until everything is well-blended.
- Stuff the Pasta Shells: Generously fill each cooked shell with the seafood mixture. Place them in a greased baking dish, open side up.
- Prepare for Baking: If you’re using marinara sauce, spread a thin layer on the bottom of the baking dish before arranging the stuffed shells. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle some paprika over the top for a lovely color.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the oven for about 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and let them bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with extra parsley, serve them warm, and get ready to enjoy!
Helpful Cooking Tips
- To make this dish easier, prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to stuff the shells.
- For an even richer taste, try adding a splash of white wine to the seafood when you sauté it!
- Want to save some time? Purchase pre-cooked shrimp to shorten your prep time.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; they reheat beautifully!
- If you have any extra filling, it makes a delicious dip with tortilla chips or bread!
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish:
- A large pot for boiling pasta
- A skillet for sautéing the seafood
- A mixing bowl
- A baking dish (9×13 inches works great)
- A measuring cup and spoons
- Aluminum foil for covering while baking
- A spatula or spoon for mixing
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use canned seafood instead of fresh? Yes, canned crab or shrimp can make this recipe quicker and easier!
- How do I know when the seafood is fully cooked? Shrimp should be pink and opaque, while scallops should become firm and opaque.
- Can I prepare these shells ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble them a day prior and bake them right before serving.
- What side dish would pair well with this? A light salad or garlic bread would make a fantastic pair with the rich flavors!
- Can I freeze these stuffed shells? Yes! Freeze them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to enjoy them!
Have you tried making these creamy seafood stuffed shells? I’d love to know how they turned out! Snap a picture and tag me on Pinterest or leave a comment below to share your experience and any variations you tried. Let’s inspire each other to create delicious meals!
