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Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe

5 from 81 reviews

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells feature tender pasta shells filled with a rich mixture of seafood and cheese, baked in a luscious cream sauce. This hearty and satisfying dish combines the delicate flavors of various seafood with creamy textures, making it perfect for a comforting family dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 20 large pasta shells

Seafood Filling

  • 1 cup cooked crab meat
  • 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cream Sauce

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta Shells: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain carefully and set aside to cool.
  2. Prepare Seafood Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine cooked crab meat, chopped shrimp, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until fully combined.
  3. Make the Cream Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in heavy cream, stirring until sauce thickens. Add Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat once creamy and smooth.
  4. Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the seafood and cheese mixture.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of cream sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange stuffed shells in the dish, then pour remaining cream sauce evenly over the top.
  6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the tops of the shells are lightly golden.
  7. Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley or grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh seafood if possible for best flavor.
  • Ensure shells are not overcooked to prevent tearing during stuffing.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but sauce may be less thick.
  • Can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving.
  • Freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Keywords: seafood stuffed shells, creamy stuffed shells, baked pasta shells, seafood pasta bake, creamy seafood pasta