Picture this: the aroma of fresh seafood wafting through your kitchen, mingled with the comforting scent of melted cheese and the unmistakable warmth of an oven doing its magic. This is exactly the experience you’ll have with these luscious Seafood Stuffed Shells. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner for your family or an elegant gathering with friends, this dish transforms any mealtime into a special occasion.
Imagine the delight on your loved ones’ faces as they dive into these hefty shells filled to the brim with a scrumptious blend of lobster, crab, shrimp, and rich, creamy cheeses. The colors are a feast for the eyes too—a vibrant blend of creamy white and glistening seafood hues, all nestled within a delectable shell that’s golden on the outside. You’ll find this recipe brings people together, igniting warm conversations and heartfelt laughter as everyone digs into their plates.
Let the flavors tantalize your taste buds and the scents embrace your senses. Perfect for dinner parties, holiday feasts, or just an indulgent night-in, these Seafood Stuffed Shells will soon be a cherished favorite in your cooking repertoire.
What You’ll Need
Before diving into the culinary journey of crafting these Seafood Stuffed Shells, it’s essential to gather your ingredients and tools. Let’s make sure you have everything at your fingertips to create this masterpiece!
Ingredients
- Large pasta shells
- 1 cup lobster meat, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup crab meat, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup shrimp, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Tools
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Baking dish
- Skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Kitchen utensils (spoon or spatula)
How to Make It
Creating these Seafood Stuffed Shells is a delightful experience that engages all your senses. From boiling the pasta to the moment the dish comes to bubbling life in the oven, the process is both satisfying and rewarding. Let’s break it down step-by-step.
Prep the Base
First, preheat your oven to a warm 350°F (175°C). As it warms, the anticipation builds. Next, pull out a pot and fill it with water, bringing it to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, carefully add the large pasta shells, cooking them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Picture them plumping up in the pot, their surfaces shimmering. Drain the shells and set them aside, giving them a moment to cool.
Build the Flavor
While the shells rest, take out a large mixing bowl and combine the show-stopping cast of seafood. Start by gently folding together the chopped lobster, crab meat, and shrimp with ricotta cheese—feel the creamy texture encasing the tender seafood. Be generous as you add half of the mozzarella and the Parmesan, letting the savory scents envelop your kitchen. Pour in the heavy cream, then season with garlic powder and onion powder, along with salt and pepper to taste. As you mix, let the vibrant colors blend—a delightful harmony of creaminess with the fresh seafood imbued with rich flavors.
Stuff Each Shell
Now comes the fun part! Grab the cooled shells and a spoon, and begin stuffing each shell with a generous amount of that delectable seafood mixture. As you fill them, marvel at how the filling pokes over the tops, a promise of the flavor-packed delight hidden inside. Once each shell is filled, carefully place them in a greased baking dish, creating a sumptuous landscape in their cozy communal home.
Bake to Perfection
For the grand finale, pour any remaining cream over your stuffed shells. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese lavishly on top—this is where the magic happens! Cover the dish with aluminum foil, allowing steam to infuse deep flavors and keep everything moist. Place it in the oven to bake for 25 minutes. The soft bubbling sounds as it cooks will be music to your ears, harmonizing with the enticing aromas wafting through your kitchen. After the timer dings, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. During this time, the cheese will turn into a glorious golden layer, bubbling and caramelizing into perfection.
Garnish & Serve
As you remove the dish from the oven, a wonderful golden hue shines through, and that earthy aroma of baked seafood envelops you. Let it sit for a few moments, then garnish with freshly chopped parsley, adding a splash of color and a hint of freshness. It’s time to serve—plate these delightful Seafood Stuffed Shells and relish in the looks of utter joy and excitement on your guests’ faces as they savor every bite.
Creative Twists
The versatility of Seafood Stuffed Shells opens up a treasure trove of creative twists you can incorporate:
Seasonal Variations: For summer, consider adding sautéed zucchini and bell peppers for a colorful burst of freshness, or in autumn, try a hint of nutmeg paired with a light pumpkin cream sauce instead of heavy cream for a cozy twist.
Flavor Upgrades: Enhance your stuffing with fresh herbs like basil or dill that will brighten the seafood flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dash of Old Bay seasoning can lend a delightful coastal charm.
Protein Swaps: If seafood isn’t your thing, replace it with chicken or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Even a simple spinach and feta stuffing can be heavenly!
Final Inspiration
As you sit down to enjoy your Seafood Stuffed Shells, take a moment to breathe in the aromas—each inhalation tells a story of coastal delight and comfort. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather around the table, share stories, and savor life’s beautiful moments. Whether you’re celebrating special occasions or simply cherishing an evening at home, these stuffed shells will undoubtedly become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire.
So, gather your loved ones, prepare these captivating Seafood Stuffed Shells, and let the laughter, love, and flavors flow freely. Happy cooking!
Seafood Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 cup lobster meat, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup crab meat, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup shrimp, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded divided
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
For the Shell
- 12 pieces large pasta shells
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a pot of water to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the large pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Filling the Shells
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the lobster, crab, shrimp, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix in the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each shell generously with the seafood mixture.
Baking
- Place the filled shells in a greased baking dish. Pour any remaining cream over the shells and sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
Serving
- Let the dish sit for a few moments, then garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve.