Delicious Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe You’ll Love

The ocean whispers secrets of flavor in every bite of seafood stuffed shells. Picture this: tender pasta shells cradling a creamy, savory filling that tastes like a coastal breeze on a warm summer day. The blend of shrimp, crab, and delightful herbs dances on your palate while the rich cheese melds everything together, creating an unforgettable experience.

Every time I prepare these seafood stuffed shells, I’m whisked back to family gatherings filled with laughter and good food. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a festive holiday feast, these shells have become a staple that evokes cherished memories and brings everyone together for a delicious adventure.

There was that one time when my cousin took her first bite and declared it the best thing she’d ever tasted. The clean plate club had an extra member that night!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta Shells: Opt for large shells that can hold generous amounts of filling; avoid tiny ones unless you want to play hide-and-seek with your stuffing.

• Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp; just ensure they’re peeled and deveined for easy preparation.

• Crab Meat: I prefer lump crab meat for its sweetness and texture; it adds a luxurious element to the dish.

• Ricotta Cheese: Look for high-quality ricotta; its creaminess is essential for binding everything together beautifully.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives an authentic flavor boost—please don’t skimp on this one!

• Fresh Herbs (like parsley and dill): Fresh herbs elevate the flavor profile; dry herbs just won’t cut it here!

• Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or whip up a quick homemade version if you’re feeling adventurous.

• Olive Oil: A splash of good olive oil enhances flavors and keeps things from sticking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Cook the Pasta Shells: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt generously before tossing in the pasta shells. Cook them until al dente, about 10-12 minutes, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix ricotta cheese, shrimp, crab meat, Parmesan cheese, chopped herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil. Stir until well combined—this will be tastier than any secret treasure you can imagine!

Stuff the Shells: Take each cooked shell and fill it generously with the seafood mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Don’t be shy; the more stuffing, the better! Place them seam-side up in a greased baking dish.

Add Marinara Sauce: Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells until they are lovingly coated. Make sure to cover all exposed bits so they don’t dry out while baking.

Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove foil in the last 5 minutes to let those tops get beautifully golden.

Serve & Enjoy!: Once baked to perfection, allow them to cool slightly before serving. Top with more fresh herbs for color and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy!

Now you’re all set to wow your friends and family with these delectable seafood stuffed shells! With their creamy filling and savory sauce, every bite is bound to take them on an oceanic journey right from your dining room table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta shells until al dente. Prepare the filling while they cool, then stuff and bake for a delightful golden finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different seafood like crab or shrimp. Experiment with spices too; a dash of Old Bay can elevate the flavor profile significantly.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain that delicious texture without drying out.

Creating my first batch of seafood stuffed shells was an adventure filled with laughter as my cat tried to steal shrimp right off the counter!

FAQ

Can I use frozen seafood for stuffed shells?

Yes, frozen seafood works well; just ensure it’s properly thawed before using.

How can I make seafood stuffed shells spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for an extra kick.

What sauce pairs best with seafood stuffed shells?

A light marinara or creamy Alfredo sauce complements the flavors perfectly, enhancing every bite.