Name: Creamy Seafood Stuffed Pasta Shells Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 20 large pasta shells; 1 lb cooked crab meat or shrimp, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup diced sun-dried tomatoes; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

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Creamy Seafood Stuffed Pasta Shells Delight 🦐🍝✨

1. Introduction

Discover the irresistible seafood pasta recipes that bring together the rich flavors of fresh seafood with tender pasta in a creamy, savory sauce. Our Creamy Seafood Stuffed Pasta Shells Delight is a luxurious dish that will impress family and friends alike. Perfect for special occasions or an indulgent weeknight dinner, this recipe combines the best of both worlds—seafood and pasta—in a satisfying and elegant way. Dive into this culinary adventure and create a dish that is as beautiful as it is delicious.

2. Ingredients for Creamy Seafood Stuffed Pasta Shells

20 large pasta shells
1 lb seafood mixture (shrimp, scallops, crab meat)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup heavy cream
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Optional: lemon zest for added brightness

3. How to Make Creamy Seafood Stuffed Pasta Shells: Step-by-Step Guide

Prepare the Pasta Shells

Cook the large pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Cook the Seafood

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add the seafood mixture and cook until seafood is just cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Make the Creamy Filling

In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and cooked seafood. Mix well. Adjust seasoning as needed. For an extra bright flavor, add lemon zest.

Stuff the Pasta Shells

Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each cooked shell with the seafood and cheese mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish.

Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden around the edges. Remove foil in the last 5 minutes for a slight browning.

4. Tips for Perfect Creamy Seafood Stuffed Pasta Shells

For best results, use fresh seafood and high-quality cheeses. To make the dish lighter, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or plant-based cream alternatives. Remember to season the filling and sauce generously for a flavorful experience.

5. Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, microwave until warmed through or bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes. For best taste, enjoy this dish fresh, but it still tastes delightful as leftovers.

6. Serving Suggestions

This seafood pasta recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, such as refreshing Asian cucumber salad, or a simple garlic bread. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or additional Parmesan for enhanced flavor.

7. Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy Seafood Stuffed Pasta Shells

Can I substitute different seafood?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seafood mix with your favorites, including salmon, crab, or even scallops. You can find inspiration in our creamy lobster pasta recipe for more seafood ideas.

Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?

To make it gluten-free, substitute regular pasta shells with gluten-free pasta options available at your local store. Always check labels to ensure ingredients align with your dietary needs.

How long does it take to prepare?

The complete preparation, including cooking and baking, takes approximately 45-50 minutes.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Streamline your prep work for seafood and vegetables, making the process quicker and easier.
CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Perfect for boiling pasta and sautéing seafood without sticking or mess.
KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer – For mixing cheeses and creating perfect fillings with less effort.
Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Keep drinks chilled for pairing alongside this delightful pasta dish.

Each of these tools enhances your cooking experience and allows you to prepare dishes efficiently while achieving professional results.

9. Conclusion

Whether you’re a seafood lover or just craving a comforting pasta dish, this Creamy Seafood Stuffed Pasta Shells Delight is sure to satisfy. Its luscious texture, rich flavors, and elegant presentation make it a perfect choice for a special dinner or when you want to indulge. Explore more of our seafood pasta recipes to continue your culinary journey and enjoy a variety of flavors with ease. Happy cooking!

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells