Introduction

Creamy seafood stuffed shells are a delightful way to elevate your dinner table. These pasta shells, generously filled with a rich seafood mixture, offer a comforting yet sophisticated dining experience that the whole family will adore. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion, this dish brings the delicious taste of the sea right to your kitchen.

The combination of creamy sauce and tender seafood creates a velvety texture that pairs beautifully with the pasta. Whether you’re using shrimp, crab, or a medley of seafood, these stuffed shells promise to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into this culinary journey and learn how to create these scrumptious treats at home.

Ingredients

12 large pasta shells
The pasta shells serve as the vessel for holding the creamy seafood filling. Their shape allows for a generous amount of stuffing, ensuring each bite is filled with flavor.
1 cup ricotta cheese
Ricotta cheese adds a creamy texture and mild flavor to the filling. It acts as a base to bind other ingredients together while providing a luxurious mouthfeel.
1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
Chopped shrimp brings a sweet seafood flavor and a pleasant bite to the filling. It's also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for stuffed dishes.
1 cup crab meat, shredded
Crab meat contributes a sweet and delicate flavor that complements the shrimp, adding complexity to the dish. It also enhances the seafood essence of the filling.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth to the dish, balancing the creaminess and enhancing the overall flavor profile. It also helps create a delicious crust on top when baked.
1 cup heavy cream
Heavy cream is essential for creating a rich and velvety sauce that binds all ingredients together, making the stuffing incredibly indulgent and satisfying.
2 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic infuses the filling and sauce with fragrant aromatic notes, enhancing the overall complexity of flavors. It’s a staple in many seafood dishes for a reason.
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Lemon juice adds a refreshing brightness to the richness of the dish, balancing the flavors and enhancing the natural sweetness of the seafood.
Salt and pepper to taste
Seasoning with salt and pepper ensures that the flavors of the seafood and the creamy cheese come forward. Adjusting these to taste is crucial for achieving a balanced dish.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brings a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the flavors of seafood. Garnishing with parsley enhances both the aesthetic appeal and taste.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Preheating the oven ensures that your dish cooks evenly and thoroughly. It's a vital first step in any baking recipe, allowing the food to start cooking at the right temperature as soon as you put it in.

Step 2: Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.

Cooking the shells al dente guarantees they maintain their structure when stuffed. Overcooking pasta can lead to a mushy texture that breaks apart when filled, so be sure to check for that perfect bite.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cooked shrimp, crab meat, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, garlic, and lemon juice.

Mixing these ingredients together creates a unified and flavorful filling. The creaminess of the ricotta and heavy cream binds the seafood together, while the garlic and lemon juice add depth. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Step 4: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Seasoning your filling is essential to enhance the flavors of the seafood. Always taste as you go, allowing the seasoning to elevate the dish without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the seafood.

Step 5: Carefully fill each pasta shell with the seafood mixture.

Using a spoon, gently pack the filling into each shell, being cautious not to tear the pasta. This step is crucial for ensuring that every bite bursts with seafood flavor and creamy texture.

Step 6: Place the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish.

Arranging the shells in a single layer in a greased baking dish helps them to cook evenly and prevents sticking. The greasing will also help achieve a lovely, golden top as they bake.

Step 7: Pour any remaining filling over the stuffed shells and sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top.

This step enhances the creaminess and adds a beautiful, cheesy crust to the dish. Pouring the remaining filling over ensures no flavor goes to waste, and the additional cheese creates a deliciously browned topping.

Step 8: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Covering the dish initially allows the stuffed shells to heat through without drying out, locking in moisture. This step is essential for maintaining the creamy texture while the flavors meld.

Step 9: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.

Uncovering the dish towards the end of baking allows the top to crisp up and develop a beautiful golden color. It's a visual cue that indicates the shells are perfectly baked and ready to be enjoyed.

Step 10: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only brightens the dish visually but also adds an aromatic freshness that balances the richness of the filling. This final touch enhances both taste and presentation.

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells step photo

Elevate Your Pasta Game with Flavorful Fillings

Stuffed pasta shells provide a fantastic canvas for creativity in the kitchen. While this recipe focuses on seafood, feel free to experiment with various fillings ranging from seasonal vegetables to classic Italian sausage. The ability to infuse flavors into the filling allows home cooks to tailor their dishes to their taste preferences, ensuring a unique dining experience every time.

The Secret to the Perfect Creamy Sauce

Creating a creamy sauce is about balancing flavors and textures. The combination of heavy cream and cheese not only makes the sauce luxurious but also helps it cling beautifully to each shell. Consider adding a splash of white wine or a hint of spice to enhance the sauce further, allowing it to complement the seafood while adding an extra layer of depth.

Pairing Suggestions for Seafood Stuffed Shells

Completing your meal doesn’t have to be difficult. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs nicely, cutting through the richness of the stuffed shells. Opt for a crisp white wine, which balances the dish beautifully, or even a light beer for those preferring a brew. These pairings enhance the dining experience and complement the flavors of the seafood.

FAQs

What can I use instead of crab meat?

If crab meat isn't available, you can substitute it with more shrimp or use scallops for a different yet equally delightful flavor.

My sauce came out too thick; what can I do?

If the sauce is too thick, you can whisk in a bit of milk or additional heavy cream to achieve the desired consistency. Adding liquid gradually will help avoid making the sauce too runny.

How do I avoid overcooking the seafood?

To prevent overcooking, ensure your seafood is only added to the filling once it’s cooked through and remove it from the heat early. Seafood continues to cook when combined with the hot filling and baked.

Can I use different types of cheese in the filling?

Yes, feel free to explore other cheeses like mascarpone for extra creaminess or mozzarella for a gooey texture. Adjust according to your taste to create a signature filling.

What should I do if my filling is too bland?

If your filling lacks flavor, consider adding more herbs, spices, or even a pinch of Old Bay seasoning for seafood to enhance the taste. Tasting as you go is essential.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Yes, the seafood filling can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just fill the shells and bake when ready to enjoy for a fresh meal.

Conclusion

Creamy seafood stuffed shells are a versatile dish that combines comfort with sophistication. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this recipe will surely impress.

With a rich, indulgent filling and the right balance of flavors, these stuffed shells showcase the beauty of seafood in a delightful way. Enjoy crafting this dish and share it with loved ones, creating memorable dining experiences.

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