Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

There is nothing quite like indulging in a plate of creamy seafood stuffed shells, a dish that promises both comfort and decadence with every bite. To achieve that perfectly cooked, melt-in-your-mouth filling nestled inside tender jumbo pasta, it’s crucial to Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures the cheese sauce bubbles merrily and the seafood filling gets warmed through to perfection, creating a harmonious combination of flavors and textures that will delight your senses.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple yet incredibly fresh ingredients that each play a key role in creating the ultimate creamy seafood stuffed shells experience. From the luscious lobster and crab meat to the smooth cream cheese and sharp Parmesan, every element contributes to a luscious bite that’s bursting with flavor and richness.

• 8 oz lobster meat: Adds a luxurious, sweet seafood flavor that’s tender and juicy.
• 8 oz lump crab meat: Provides a slightly briny taste and flaky texture to complement the lobster.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Offers a fragrant and savory depth when sautéed.
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Key for thickening the creamy cheese sauce effortlessly.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors in the filling and sauce.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided): Brings gooey, melty texture and mild creaminess—use half in the filling and half in the sauce.
• 1 ½ tablespoons butter (divided): Adds richness when cooking garlic and thickening the sauce.
• 8 oz cream cheese: Creates a silky-smooth filling with a subtle tang.
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream: Makes the cheese sauce incredibly luscious and velvety.
• ¾ cup Parmesan Reggiano cheese, grated: Injects a sharp, nutty flavor that balances the creaminess perfectly.
• Aluminum foil: For covering the dish to create steam and ensure even baking.

How to Make Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Prepare the Seafood

Start by melting ½ tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, toss in the minced garlic and sauté until it releases its heavenly fragrance—this takes about one minute. Next, add the succulent lobster and lump crab meat, gently cooking them for two to three minutes to warm and infuse the garlic flavor without overcooking. Then, remove the skillet from heat and set the mixture aside, letting those seafood flavors mingle while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a sizable bowl, combine the cooked seafood with the cream cheese and half a cup of shredded mozzarella. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. This creamy combination will form the luscious filling that melts into the pasta shells. Mix everything thoroughly so that the flavors evenly distribute, promising every bite is just as delicious as the one before.

Step 3: Cook the Jumbo Shells

Carefully cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions to achieve al dente perfection. After draining, let them cool slightly. Cooling is important because it makes stuffing much easier—nobody wants the filling to slip out while they’re assembling the dish. The shells need to stay intact to cradle that beautiful seafood filling perfectly.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet (no need to dirty another dish), melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about one minute, whisking continuously to form a roux that will thicken your sauce without any lumps. Slowly pour in the heavy whipping cream while whisking to combine. Once smooth, add the grated Parmesan and the remaining mozzarella. Keep stirring until the sauce is creamy and luscious, ready to envelop your stuffed shells in a decadent cheesy embrace.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake (Remember to Preheat the Oven to 375°F (190°C))

Before you start assembling, don’t forget to Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This is key for getting that perfect bake. Spread a thin layer of the cheese sauce at the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking and add extra flavor to the shells below. Carefully stuff each cooled pasta shell with the seafood filling and nestle them into the dish. Pour the remaining cheese sauce generously over the stuffed shells, making sure each one is beautifully coated.

Step 6: Baking with Foil

Cover your dish tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and prevent the sauce from drying out. Bake for 20 minutes at the temperature you preheated earlier. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the top to turn a gorgeous golden brown and the sauce to bubble invitingly. This two-stage baking process, made possible by the right oven temperature, is what brings this dish from wonderful to absolutely irresistible.

Step 7: Let it Rest and Serve

After baking, let the stuffed shells cool for a few moments before serving. This rest time lets the cheese sauce thicken slightly and the flavors settle. Your kitchen will be filled with irresistible aromas, and each forkful will feel like a warm hug.

How to Serve Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan or freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil right before serving to add brightness and an inviting pop of color. A little lemon zest over the top can also enhance the seafood notes beautifully and add a fresh contrast to the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette, which cuts through the richness, or some roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for a colorful, nutrient-packed addition. A crusty piece of garlic bread on the side is always a crowd-pleaser for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more elegant presentation, try placing the stuffed shells individually on each plate with small dollops of the cheese sauce artfully drizzled around. Alternatively, serve family-style in the baking dish right at the table for a comforting and inviting atmosphere that encourages everyone to dig in and share.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy sauce and seafood will keep well for up to three days without losing their delicious texture or taste.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish before baking. Assemble it as directed, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), then bake covered for 30 to 40 minutes before uncovering and baking for 10-15 more minutes until hot and bubbly.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F covered with foil to maintain moisture, or microwave individual portions with a small splash of cream or water to help loosen the sauce. Just be careful not to overheat to keep the seafood tender and sauce creamy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of seafood for this recipe?

Absolutely! Shrimp, scallops, or even firm white fish can be used as a substitute or addition to lobster and crab. Just cook them gently to avoid toughening and ensure wonderful flavor.

Do I have to pre-cook the seafood?

Pre-cooking the seafood helps release and meld the flavors while preventing overcooking in the oven. Cooking it briefly with garlic keeps it tender and flavorful before adding to the filling.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time before baking?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, remember to Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) before baking as directed for perfectly cooked results.

Is it necessary to cover the dish with foil while baking?

Covering with foil traps steam so the pasta stays tender and the cheese sauce stays creamy without drying out. Removing the foil toward the end allows the top to brown beautifully.

What’s the best way to ensure the shells don’t stick together when cooking?

Cook the jumbo shells in plenty of salted water and stir gently to prevent sticking. Rinse briefly under cold water after draining and toss with a little oil or butter to keep them separate and easy to stuff.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to create these decadent creamy seafood stuffed shells with just the right technique and flavors, I can’t encourage you enough to give them a try. Don’t forget to Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) every time—it’s that secret to turning this recipe into a truly memorable meal. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this dish will quickly become one of your favorites to share with family and friends.

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