Introduction
Craving something indulgent, comforting, and restaurant-worthy without leaving home? This Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells recipe is the ultimate answer! These large pasta shells are generously filled with a rich mixture of crab, shrimp, and creamy cheeses, then smothered in a luscious Alfredo sauce and baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a gourmet meal that’s surprisingly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients List
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 8 oz cooked shrimp, chopped
- 6 oz lump crab meat
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Substitutions:
- Substitute cottage cheese for ricotta for a lighter option.
- Use scallops or lobster meat in place of crab or shrimp.
- Swap Alfredo for a garlic cream sauce or a blush tomato-cream sauce.
Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the shells
Boil jumbo shells in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the filling
In a mixing bowl, combine chopped shrimp, crab meat, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Old Bay, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Fill the shells
Stuff each cooked shell with the seafood mixture and place in a greased baking dish.
Step 4: Add sauce and cheese
Pour Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle extra mozzarella on top.
Step 5: Bake
Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Nutritional Information (Per 3 shells)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 460 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Sodium | 820mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Use part-skim cheeses to reduce fat.
- Substitute Greek yogurt in place of ricotta for added protein.
- Try whole wheat shells for added fiber.
- Use a cauliflower-based Alfredo sauce for fewer carbs.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread and a fresh green salad.
- Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
- Add steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli on the side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shells: They will cook more in the oven.
- Overfilling the shells: Makes them hard to handle and may cause tearing.
- Not covering while baking: Foil keeps moisture in and prevents early browning.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze before baking for up to 2 months; thaw before baking.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven or microwave until heated through.
Conclusion
These Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are rich, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering, this dish will impress every seafood lover at the table.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the shells and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I use canned crab?
A: Absolutely, just make sure it’s well-drained and picked over for shells.
Q: Is there a dairy-free version?
A: Use dairy-free cheese and Alfredo substitutes, such as cashew or coconut-based versions.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the filling?
A: Yes, finely chopped spinach or sautéed mushrooms are great additions.
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