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Seafood Stuffed Shells


  • Author: Sally Thompson
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 46 servings 1x

Description

Treat yourself to the rich and creamy indulgence of Seafood Stuffed Shells—a comforting dish that combines the best of sea and land. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a luscious mixture of crab meat, shrimp, ricotta, and herbs, then smothered in a velvety garlic parmesan cream sauce and baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas, a satisfying weekend recipe, or elegant food ideas for guests, this easy recipe delivers flavor, elegance, and comfort in one satisfying bite. It’s a must-try for seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Shells & Filling:

  • 20 jumbo pasta shells (plus extras in case of tearing)
  • 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
  • 1 cup lump crab meat
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Topping:

  • 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 2 tbsp Parmesan
  • Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Boil pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and lay on parchment.
  2. In a large bowl, mix shrimp, crab, ricotta, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  3. In a pan, melt butter and sauté garlic. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Simmer, then add Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook until thickened.
  5. Stuff each shell with seafood filling using a spoon or piping bag.
  6. Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish. Spread a layer of sauce on the bottom. Arrange shells in the dish.
  7. Pour remaining sauce over the shells.
  8. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan. Sprinkle on top.
  9. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake 10 more minutes until golden.
  10. Let rest 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes