Seafood Stuffed Shells
Seafood Stuffed Shells
Seafood stuffed shells combine jumbo pasta shells filled with a delightful mixture of seafood and creamy cheeses, creating a delicious main dish. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe brings a taste of the ocean to your table while showcasing a variety of textures and flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Seafood Stuffed Shells
These seafood stuffed shells are not just easy to prepare; they also deliver an explosion of flavor in every bite. The blend of lobster, crab, and shrimp, combined with creamy ricotta and mozzarella, makes for a rich and satisfying meal. Not only are they delicious, but they also look stunning on the plate, making them a great choice for dinner parties. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.
How to Make Seafood Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
- 12 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 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups alfredo sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine lobster, crab, shrimp, ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the seafood mixture.
- Spread a thin layer of alfredo sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover with remaining alfredo sauce.
- Sprinkle additional mozzarella on top if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy your seafood stuffed shells!
How to Serve Seafood Stuffed Shells
Serve the seafood stuffed shells hot from the oven. For an elegant touch, garnish with extra chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated parmesan. Pair these shells with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. A slice of crusty bread would also be a wonderful addition, perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.
How to Store Seafood Stuffed Shells
If you have leftovers, you can store your seafood stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You may want to cover the dish with foil to prevent the pasta from drying out. If you plan to freeze them, ensure they are tightly wrapped and stored in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months.
Tips to Make Seafood Stuffed Shells Perfect
- Make sure the pasta shells are cooked al dente, so they hold their shape during filling and baking.
- Don’t overstuff the shells; a generous amount should do, as the filling will expand slightly while baking.
- Allow the seafood mixture to cool before stuffing the shells to avoid cooking the ricotta prematurely.
- Consider adding a bit of garlic or chopped spinach to the filling for an extra flavor kick.
Flavor Variations
Feel free to get creative with your seafood stuffed shells. You can substitute the lobster, crab, and shrimp with other seafood like scallops or even a mix of your favorite fish. For a spicy twist, add some diced jalapeños to the filling. You could also incorporate different cheeses such as feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Pro Tips for Success
- Make sure your seafood is fully cooked before use. If you’re using fresh seafood, cook it completely before mixing it into the filling.
- Allow the stuffed shells to rest for a few minutes after baking to set up before serving. This will make them easier to plate without falling apart.
- For a crispy topping, broil the stuffed shells for the last few minutes of baking. Just watch closely to prevent burning.
FAQs About Seafood Stuffed Shells
Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen seafood as long as you thaw and cook it thoroughly beforehand. Make sure to drain any excess moisture to prevent the filling from becoming watery.
What can I serve with seafood stuffed shells?
Seafood stuffed shells pair well with a variety of sides. Consider a light salad, garlic bread, or sautéed vegetables for a balanced meal. A refreshing white grape juice is an excellent non-alcoholic drink option to complement the dish.
Can I make seafood stuffed shells in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish in advance and refrigerate it. Just be sure to cover it well. When you’re ready to serve, pop the dish in the oven to heat it through, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if necessary.
Final Thoughts
Seafood stuffed shells are a remarkable dish that everyone will love. This recipe is not only easy to make but allows you to showcase an assortment of delightful seafood flavors in a comforting pasta shape. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these stuffed shells will certainly impress. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and make this dish your own. Happy cooking!
Seafood Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 pieces jumbo pasta shells Cook according to package instructions.
- 3 cups alfredo sauce For covering the stuffed shells.
Seafood Mixture
- 1 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped Use fresh or pre-cooked lobster.
- 1 cup cooked crab meat, shredded Fresh or canned crab meat works.
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped Ensure shrimp is peeled and deveined.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded Additional mozzarella can be sprinkled on top.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped For mixing and garnishing.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Freshly squeezed is preferable.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine lobster, crab, shrimp, ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the seafood mixture.
- Spread a thin layer of alfredo sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
Baking
- Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover with remaining alfredo sauce.
- Sprinkle additional mozzarella on top if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Serving
- Serve hot and enjoy your seafood stuffed shells!
