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why make this recipe

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are a delightful dish that combines the richness of seafood with the comforting texture of pasta. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, date nights, or special occasions. It showcases fresh seafood in a creamy sauce that makes every bite a delicious experience. Plus, it’s a fun way to impress your guests with a homemade meal that looks and tastes gourmet.

how to make Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Ingredients:

20 jumbo pasta shells
1 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped
1 cup cooked crab meat, shredded
1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine the lobster, crab, shrimp, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, heavy cream, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the seafood mixture and place in a greased baking dish.
Pour any remaining mixture over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

how to serve Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Serve Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells hot from the oven for the best taste. You can pair them with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to complete the meal. Adding a squeeze of lemon on top right before eating can brighten the flavors even more.

how to store Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

If you have leftovers, let the stuffed shells cool completely before storing them. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them before baking. Just wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They will stay good for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes.

tips to make Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Make sure not to overcook the pasta shells; they should be al dente since they will continue cooking in the oven.
Use fresh seafood if possible for the best flavor, but frozen seafood works great too; just ensure it is properly thawed before use.
Feel free to add other seafood like scallops or mussels based on your preference.
Adjust the amount of cheese according to your taste; you can add more mozzarella for a cheesier dish.

variation

You can make a vegetarian version by substituting the seafood with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a mix of your favorite vegetables. You can also add some pesto or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor kick.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, while jumbo shells are traditional, other pasta shapes like cannelloni or even large rigatoni can work as well.

2. Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells up to a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge before baking.

3. What can I serve with Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells?
This dish goes well with a light salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A glass of white wine pairs nicely too!