The aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil fills the kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy Italian bistro where I first savored these Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells. This dish is like a warm embrace: it’s decadent yet incredibly easy to whip up, making it the perfect choice for both special occasions and weekday dinners. The best part? You’re free to customize it with your favorite seafood or try the gluten-free pasta alternative! Packed with creamy cheeses and a hint of fresh lemon, these stuffed shells are sure to impress everyone around the table. Are you ready to dive into a delicious culinary adventure that might just become a new family favorite? Let’s get started! Why Are These Stuffed Shells a Must-Try? Irresistible Flavor: The delightful combination of seafood, creamy cheeses, and zesty lemon creates a flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Customizable Options: Feel free to swap in your favorite seafood or choose gluten-free pasta to cater to any dietary needs. Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this dish can be on your table in less than an hour, perfect for busy nights. Impressive Presentation: Baked to golden perfection, these shells not only taste amazing but also look stunning for any gathering. If you enjoy easy yet sophisticated dishes, you’ll want to check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken or try these Roasted Red Chicken stuffed delights! Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Ingredients • For the Pasta Shells Pasta Shells – These form the perfect pockets for your creamy stuffing; gluten-free pasta shells can be used for a gluten-free option. • For the Cheese Mixture Ricotta Cheese – Adds creaminess and richness; cottage cheese can substitute for a lighter version. Mozzarella Cheese – Provides a gooey texture; vegan mozzarella is a great dairy-free alternative. Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty flavor; try nutritional yeast for a vegan option. • For the Seafood Filling Shrimp – This is the main protein; opt for cooked chicken for a delightful variation. Scallops – Enhances the flavor; can be omitted or replaced with additional shrimp. Crab Meat – Adds a delicious ocean flavor; imitation crab is budget-friendly and works well. • For Flavor Garlic – Provides aromatic depth; pre-minced garlic is a handy time-saver. Fresh Parsley – Brings a burst of freshness; dried parsley can substitute in a pinch. Lemon Zest – Brightens the dish with a zesty kick; use lime zest if you prefer. • For the Sauce Marinara Sauce – Acts as the flavorful base; both homemade and store-bought options are fantastic. Heavy Cream – Adds richness to the sauce; you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream for lighter results. • For Cooking Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the garlic; consider avocado oil as an alternative. Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for the best flavor. Red Pepper Flakes – Adds spice; feel free to omit if you prefer milder flavors. These Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are not just a treat for your taste buds but a chance to indulge in a comforting culinary experience! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Step 1: Prepare Pasta In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Gently add the pasta shells and cook al dente for about 9 to 11 minutes, until slightly tender but still firm. Drain the pasta in a colander and spread them out on a baking sheet to cool, allowing the shells to retain their shape and prevent sticking. Step 2: Make Filling In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, shrimp, scallops, crab meat, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated, creating a creamy seafood blend that is bursting with flavor—it’s the heart of your Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells! Step 3: Prepare Sauce In a medium saucepan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat and add minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Next, pour in the heavy cream and marinara sauce, stirring well. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for approximately 8 minutes until slightly thickened, creating a luscious sauce to complement the stuffed shells. Step 4: Assemble Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the prepared sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Take each cooled shell and carefully fill it with the seafood mixture, placing the filled shells seam-side up in the dish. Arrange them snugly in rows for an inviting presentation, ensuring every shell gets some saucy goodness. Step 5: Bake Pour the remaining sauce generously over the stuffed shells, then sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and place it in the oven to bake for 25 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling—a perfect finish for your Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells. Step 6: Serve Once out of the oven, let the stuffed shells rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This waiting time allows the filling to stabilize. Garnish with additional parsley if desired, and enjoy the wonderful aromas that fill your kitchen as you dig into this comforting, flavorful dish! Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Variations Feel free to get creative and adapt these stuffed shells to suit your taste or dietary preferences! Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta shells to enjoy this dish without compromising on taste or texture. Dairy-Free Cheese: Swap mozzarella and ricotta for a dairy-free cheese blend to make the recipe suitable for lactose intolerance. Vegetarian Delight: Replace seafood with sautéed vegetables like spinach and mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free option. Extra Zing: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor that complements the seafood beautifully. Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or sprinkle cayenne pepper on top for those who crave a bit of heat in their meal. Seafood Combo: Go for a mix of crab, shrimp, and scallops, or experiment with lobster for a fancy twist on the classic. Lighter Cream: Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce that still packs a punch in flavor. Herb Infusion: Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil or dill to add a unique flavor profile to the filling. Whichever variation you choose, your creamy seafood stuffed shells will surely tantalize your taste buds! And if you’re in the mood for another delightful dish, consider making my savory Louisiana Seafood Gumbo or treat yourself to some heavenly Stuffed Cheesecake Pancakes. Enjoy the journey of flavors! What to Serve with Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells? The flavors and textures of this stunning dish are perfect starters for crafting a delightful and satisfying meal experience. Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce, this crusty companion accentuates the rich flavors of the stuffed shells. The aroma of garlic and butter wafting through the kitchen is irresistible! Light Green Salad: A refreshing salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the creamy stuffing. Consider arugula or mixed greens, topped with cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of feta for added zest. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil and spices creates a pleasing crunch that balances the creaminess of the shells. Their earthy flavors harmonize beautifully with seafood. Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: Pair a chilled glass of these white wines to elevate the dining experience. Their acidity cuts through the richness, enhancing the meal’s overall enjoyment. Lemon Sorbet: A light, refreshing dessert that cleanses the palate after a rich meal. The hint of citrus complements the seafood’s flavors while offering a cool finish. Herbed Risotto: Creamy, comforting risotto with fresh herbs brings out the best in your stuffed shells, creating a luxurious tasting experience. Try Parmesan and peas for an earthy touch! Baked Zucchini Boats: For a light and fun twist, serve stuffed zucchini as an appetizer. Their freshness and herbal flavors work well with the shells’ richness, inviting delish flavors on every bite. Vegetable Medley: A sautéed mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and onions served on the side adds a colorful touch and vibrant taste that complements the creamy seafood. Their sweetness balances the dish perfectly. Sparkling Water with Lime: For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling water with a squeeze of lime to cleanse the palate between bites and enhance your dining experience. Storage Tips for Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Fridge: Store leftover Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells in an airtight container, covered in sauce, for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stuffed shells for up to 2 months, interspersed with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Reheating: Thaw frozen shells in the fridge overnight before reheating. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, covered with foil, until heated through. Serving Tips: Garnish with fresh parsley upon serving for added color and flavor after reheating your delicious shells! Expert Tips for Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Seafood Quality: Use fresh or thawed seafood that’s free from excess moisture to enhance the flavors in your creamy seafood stuffed shells. Resting Time: Allow your baked shells to rest for 5 minutes after cooking—this helps the filling set and makes serving easier. Adjusting Seasoning: Start with small amounts of salt and pepper; the seafood’s delicate flavors can be easily overpowered, so taste as you go! Pasta Cooking: Make sure to cook your pasta shells al dente; this helps prevent them from becoming mushy when baked with the sauce. Mix It Up: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seafood or cheeses. Substituting ingredients keeps the dish exciting and tailored to your preferences. Storing Leftovers: Keep leftover creamy seafood stuffed shells covered in sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for extended enjoyment. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor a delicious homemade dish with minimal day-of effort. You can assemble the stuffed shells up to 24 hours in advance, layering them with sauce and covering the baking dish tightly with foil to keep them fresh. Alternatively, you can prepare the filling and the sauce 2-3 days ahead and store them separately in the refrigerator, ensuring that the seafood mixture remains flavorful and free from excess moisture. When you’re ready to bake, simply fill the shells, pour the sauce over, and bake from chilled for an extra 10-15 minutes to ensure they’re bubbly and golden, making this a convenient option for busy weeknights! Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe FAQs What seafood should I use for the filling? Absolutely! Feel free to use a mix of shrimp, scallops, or crab meat based on your preferences. For a budget-friendly option, imitation crab can be just as delicious! Always ensure your seafood is fresh or properly thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture. How should I store leftovers? Very easy! Store any leftover Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells in an airtight container and make sure they’re covered with sauce. They will keep fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Can I freeze these stuffed shells? How do I do it? Yes, you can freeze them! First, allow the dish to cool completely. Then, line your freezer-safe container with parchment paper, layer the shells with sauce, and place parchment in between layers to prevent sticking. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. What if my pasta shells break while cooking? Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! If any shells break, use them for the filling. Simply mix the broken pieces into your seafood filling—I often do this to avoid waste. You can still assemble them in the baking dish. They’ll still taste amazing! Can dietary restrictions be accommodated with this recipe? Absolutely! You can easily make the Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells gluten-free by choosing gluten-free pasta shells. For a lighter or dairy-free version, replace the cheeses with vegan alternatives and substitute heavy cream with a non-dairy cream. Always check seafood sources for allergy information as well! Delicious Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells for Cozy Nights Indulge in Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells, a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will warm your heart on cozy nights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 4 shellsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta Shells12 ounces Pasta Shells Gluten-free option availableFor the Cheese Mixture15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Can substitute with cottage cheese1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Vegan mozzarella is a great alternative1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Substitute with nutritional yeast for veganFor the Seafood Filling8 ounces Shrimp Opt for cooked chicken for variation4 ounces Scallops Can be omitted or replaced with shrimp4 ounces Crab Meat Imitation crab is budget-friendly optionFor Flavor2 cloves Garlic Pre-minced garlic is a time-saver1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Dried parsley can substitute1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Lime zest can be used insteadFor the Sauce24 ounces Marinara Sauce Homemade or store-bought options work well1 cup Heavy Cream Use half-and-half for lighter resultsFor Cooking2 tablespoons Olive Oil Consider avocado oil as an alternativeSalt & Pepper Adjust to taste1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Omit for milder flavors Equipment Large potMixing Bowlmedium saucepanBaking dish Method InstructionsPrepare a large pot of salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add pasta shells and cook for about 9 to 11 minutes, then drain and cool on a baking sheet.In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, shrimp, scallops, crab meat, minced garlic, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and marinara sauce, stirring well. Simmer for approximately 8 minutes.Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a layer of sauce in a baking dish. Fill each cooled shell with the seafood mixture and place seam-side up.Pour remaining sauce over shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.Let the stuffed shells rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1portionCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesUse fresh or thawed seafood for the best taste. Allow shells to rest after baking for easier serving. Experiment with different seafood or cheeses for variety. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
