Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a luxurious, restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home, then these Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are exactly what you need! Imagine jumbo pasta shells filled with a luscious mix of succulent shrimp, crab meat, and a creamy ricotta blend, all smothered in a rich, velvety garlic Parmesan sauce. Every bite is pure indulgence, making this dish perfect for special occasions, date nights, or whenever you’re craving something extra comforting.

The beauty of stuffed shells lies in their perfect balance of textures and flavors. The seafood filling is smooth, creamy, and slightly briny, while the pasta adds a satisfying bite. The homemade Parmesan cream sauce brings it all together with its silky, cheesy richness. Unlike traditional red-sauce pasta dishes, this white-sauce version has a more delicate, buttery flavor that lets the seafood truly shine.

What makes this recipe even better? It’s incredibly versatile! You can mix and match different types of seafood, adjust the sauce thickness, or even add a bit of heat with crushed red pepper flakes. Whether you serve it as a family dinner or an elegant holiday meal, these Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love These Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

There are plenty of reasons why this dish is an absolute winner!

First, it’s decadently creamy and comforting. The combination of ricotta, Parmesan, and cream cheese makes the filling incredibly smooth, while the garlic-infused Parmesan sauce adds a silky, rich finish. It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy yet deeply satisfying.

Second, it’s packed with seafood goodness. If you love seafood, this dish is a dream come true. The tender shrimp and sweet crab meat make every bite flavorful, while the fresh herbs and lemon zest brighten up the richness. You can even customize it with scallops, lobster, or any other seafood you love.

Lastly, it’s easy to make ahead. You can prepare the stuffed shells and refrigerate them overnight, then simply bake when ready. This makes it an excellent holiday dish or meal-prep option when you want a stress-free yet impressive dinner.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 580
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g

(Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

Ingredients for Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

For the Stuffed Shells:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 8 oz shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• 6 oz crab meat (lump or claw meat)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken or seafood broth
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish (Optional):

• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley
• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook 1-2 minutes less than package instructions (since they will continue cooking in the oven).
3. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Seafood Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in the lemon zest, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the chopped shrimp and crab meat, gently folding everything together. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually pour in the heavy cream and broth, whisking to prevent lumps.
5. Add the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Shells

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread ½ cup of the Parmesan sauce on the bottom of a greased baking dish.
3. Fill each cooked pasta shell with the seafood mixture and arrange them in the dish.
4. Pour the remaining creamy sauce evenly over the shells.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, then serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice.

Ingredient Background

The key to these Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells is the high-quality seafood and rich, cheesy filling. Let’s break down the most important ingredients.

Shrimp

Shrimp is a popular choice for seafood pasta dishes because it’s tender, slightly sweet, and pairs beautifully with creamy sauces. It’s also packed with lean protein, essential vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health. When cooking shrimp, it’s important not to overcook it, as it can become rubbery.

Crab Meat

Crab meat adds a rich, slightly sweet, and buttery taste to the filling. Lump crab meat works best for its delicate texture and mild flavor, but claw meat is a great alternative for a stronger seafood taste. If fresh crab meat isn’t available, you can use high-quality canned crab meat.

Ricotta & Cream Cheese

These cheeses form the creamy base of the filling. Ricotta is light and slightly grainy, while cream cheese is rich and smooth. Together, they create a perfectly balanced texture that holds the seafood together without being too dense.

Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan cheese is the star ingredient in the sauce, providing nutty, salty, and umami flavors. Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly into the sauce compared to pre-packaged shredded versions, which often contain anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting.

Technique Tips for Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Making perfectly stuffed shells is all about the right techniques. Follow these expert tips to take your dish to the next level.

Cook the Pasta Just Right

Since the shells continue cooking in the oven, it’s important to boil them until just al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions). Overcooked pasta will become too soft and fall apart when you try to fill them.

Prevent a Watery Sauce

Seafood releases moisture as it cooks, so to prevent your sauce from becoming too thin:

• Drain canned crab meat well before mixing it into the filling.
• If using frozen shrimp, pat it dry with a paper towel after thawing.
• Cook the sauce until it thickens slightly before pouring it over the shells.

Use a Piping Bag for Easy Filling

For evenly filled shells with minimal mess, transfer the seafood mixture into a large zip-top bag, cut off one corner, and squeeze the filling directly into each shell. This method is faster and neater than spooning the mixture in by hand.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Want to switch things up? Try these creative ways to serve Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells!

1. Seafood Lasagna Rolls

Instead of stuffing shells, spread the seafood filling onto cooked lasagna noodles, roll them up, and arrange them in a baking dish. Cover with the creamy Parmesan sauce and bake until bubbly for a unique take on this dish.

2. Bread Bowl Stuffed Shells

Serve these creamy shells inside hollowed-out bread bowls, then bake until golden. The bread soaks up the rich sauce, making every bite even more indulgent.

3. Mini Appetizer Shells

Use small pasta shells and mix the filling into the sauce instead of stuffing them. Serve in individual ramekins for a fun, bite-sized seafood dish perfect for parties.

Freezing and Storing Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

This dish is fantastic for meal prep because it stores and reheats beautifully.

Refrigeration (Up to 3 Days)

1. Let the stuffed shells cool completely before storing.
2. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
3. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions with a splash of milk to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.

Freezing (Up to 3 Months)

1. Assemble the shells but do not bake them.
2. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
3. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.

Reheating from Frozen

1. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 50-55 minutes if frozen.
2. Cover with foil for the first 30 minutes, then remove it to allow the top to brown.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Want to make this dish lighter without sacrificing flavor? Try these healthier swaps!

1. Use Low-Fat Dairy

Substituting part-skim ricotta and cream cheese reduces the fat content while keeping the filling creamy.

2. Swap Heavy Cream for Greek Yogurt

For a lighter sauce, replace half the heavy cream with Greek yogurt. It keeps the dish creamy while adding a slight tang.

3. Add More Veggies

Mix spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers into the seafood filling for extra nutrients and flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Events

This dish is perfect for special occasions, from intimate dinners to festive holiday meals.

1. Romantic Date Night

Serve with a side of garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, and a glass of white wine for an elegant, restaurant-quality dinner.

2. Holiday Dinner

For a festive seafood feast, pair this dish with buttery mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, and a side of lobster bisque.

3. Family-Style Buffet

Arrange the shells on a large serving platter, with a side of grilled vegetables and fresh bread. Add extra Parmesan cheese for guests to sprinkle on top.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use canned crab instead of fresh?

Yes! Lump canned crab meat works well, just be sure to drain it properly before using.

2. Can I use other seafood in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute or add scallops, lobster, or even salmon for variety.

3. How do I prevent my shells from drying out?

Make sure to fully cover them with sauce before baking, and if needed, add a splash of extra cream or broth when reheating.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the shells the night before and refrigerate them, then bake when ready.

5. What’s the best pasta to use if I can’t find jumbo shells?

Manicotti tubes or large cannelloni are great alternatives!

6. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce.

7. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta shells and substitute the flour in the sauce with cornstarch or gluten-free flour.

8. Can I serve this dish cold?

While it’s best served warm, leftovers can be enjoyed cold as a seafood pasta salad!

9. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but chop it finely and fold it in last to prevent overcooking.

10. What wine pairs best with this dish?

A buttery Chardonnay or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy seafood flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

These Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are rich, indulgent, and bursting with flavor, making them the ultimate comfort food for seafood lovers. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion, a cozy family dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

So grab your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality seafood feast at home!

Print