Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

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by william castellanos

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The tantalizing aroma of creamy cheese mingling with succulent seafood wafts through the air, enticing every hungry soul nearby. This is not just any dish; it’s Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells that promise a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance like they just won the lottery.

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Picture this: It’s a cozy Sunday afternoon, and you decide to treat yourself and your loved ones to something special. As you pull out your ingredients and begin the culinary adventure, nostalgia washes over you. Memories of family gatherings filled with laughter, love, and delicious food flood back as you whip up these cheesy, seafood-filled wonders. This dish is perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging after a long week. Get ready for an incredible flavor experience!

Why You'll Love This Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

  • This incredible Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
  • Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
  • Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
  • Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells:

  • Large Pasta Shells: Opt for jumbo shells that can hold all that creamy goodness without falling apart.
  • Seafood Mix: A combination of shrimp, scallops, and crab meat adds a delightful variety of flavors.
  • Cream Cheese: The key ingredient for achieving that silky smooth texture in the filling.
  • Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Provides melty goodness that pulls everything together beautifully.
  • Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle on top adds an irresistible crust and depth of flavor.
  • Fresh Garlic: Adds aromatic warmth; don’t skimp on this one!
  • Dill and Parsley: Fresh herbs elevate the dish with bright flavors and gorgeous color.

For the Sauce:

  • Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce luxuriously rich and creamy—no guilt here!
  • Lemon Juice: A splash brightens up the dish and balances out the richness perfectly.

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

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While you’re waiting for it to reach optimal baking temperature, start boiling a large pot of salted water to cook those pasta shells.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Once your water’s bubbling like a hot spring in Japan, add in those jumbo pasta shells. Cook them until they’re al dente—about half of the recommended cooking time on the package. Drain and set aside on a clean towel to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with shredded mozzarella, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped dill, parsley, and seafood mix. Stir until well combined; it should look like a creamy dream!

Step 4: Stuff Those Shells

Take each shell and fill it generously with your rich seafood mixture using a teaspoon or piping bag if you’re feeling fancy. Place them snugly in a greased baking dish.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream and lemon juice. Stir constantly until warmed through—this will become the luscious sauce drizzled over our stuffed shells.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour half of the sauce over your stuffed shells before sprinkling more mozzarella on top. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until bubbling and golden brown on top.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with remaining sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every cheesy bite of these Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells while basking in compliments from friends and family—you’ll be their new culinary hero!

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

You Must Know About Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

  • This showstopping Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
  • The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
  • Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
  • Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the ultimate Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells, start by boiling the pasta shells first while simultaneously preparing your seafood filling. Once the shells are cooked al dente, stuff them generously with the creamy mixture before baking them in sauce for the perfect finish.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to experiment with different seafood types like crab or shrimp to suit your taste buds. Swap in fresh herbs like dill or basil for added freshness, or try a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a kick that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through to retain creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

  • This professional-quality Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
  • Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
  • The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
  • Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

The first time I made Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells was during a family gathering, and it quickly became a hit! My cousin even declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” That’s high praise from someone who considers mac and cheese a food group!

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

FAQs

What is Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells?

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are large pasta shells filled with a rich and savory mixture of seafood, typically including shrimp, crab, and scallops. The dish is baked in a delicious creamy sauce, often made from cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. This recipe combines the flavors of the sea with a comforting texture that makes it perfect for special occasions or family dinners. The shells are not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrition. Each bite brings together the goodness of seafood and creamy goodness that everyone will love.

How do you make Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells?

To make Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells, start by cooking the pasta shells until al dente. Prepare a filling using cooked seafood mixed with cream cheese, garlic, and seasonings. Gently stuff each shell with the seafood mixture. Place them in a baking dish over a layer of creamy sauce, then top with more sauce and cheese before baking until bubbly and golden. This process ensures that the flavors meld beautifully while keeping the shells tender yet firm.

Can I prepare Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells ahead of time! Assemble the stuffed shells as directed but instead of baking them right away, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake them straight from the fridge or allow them to come to room temperature first. This convenience makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

What can I serve with Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells?

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells pair wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving them alongside a fresh garden salad tossed in balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks enhance the meal’s comfort factor while providing an extra dose of flavor. For something lighter, steamed vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli balance out the richness of the dish beautifully.

Conclusion

In summary, Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells deliver an exquisite dining experience that combines delectable seafood flavors with a rich and creamy filling. They are easy to prepare in advance and offer versatility in pairing options. Whether you enjoy them for family gatherings or special occasions, this dish is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Try making these delightful stuffed shells today for a meal everyone will rave about!

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Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells


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  • Author: William Castellanos
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are a delightful dish that perfectly blends succulent seafood with a rich, creamy filling. These jumbo pasta shells are baked to golden perfection and topped with gooey cheese, creating an unforgettable dining experience ideal for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family meal. Every bite delivers comfort and flavor, making it a must-try recipe for any occasion.


Ingredients

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  • 12 large pasta shells
  • 1 cup seafood mix (shrimp, scallops, crab)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil salted water and cook pasta shells until al dente; drain and set aside.
  2. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, dill, parsley, and seafood until well combined.
  3. Generously stuff each shell with the seafood mixture and arrange them in a greased baking dish.
  4. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream and lemon juice; stir until warmed through.
  5. Pour half the sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbling and golden.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3 stuffed shells (200g)
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg
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