Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

This Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells recipe is an absolute treasure for anyone who loves rich, seafood-packed pasta dishes that feel both indulgent and comforting. The combination of succulent lobster and lump crab meat blended with creamy cheeses creates a luxurious filling that melts beautifully inside each jumbo shell. Before diving into this feast, don’t forget to Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) because that’s the perfect temperature to create a golden, bubbly finish that will have all your guests asking for seconds. This dish effortlessly balances fresh ocean flavors with a decadent, cheesy sauce, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, high-quality ingredients is key to making this dish shine. Each element plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture, ensuring every bite melts in your mouth with the perfect balance of creamy and savory delights.

• Lobster meat (8 oz): Delivers sweet and tender seafood flavor that’s truly luxurious.
• Lump crab meat (8 oz): Offers a delicate, flaky texture that complements the lobster perfectly.
• Garlic cloves, minced (3): Adds a fragrant and slightly spicy depth to the seafood filling.
• All-purpose flour (1 tablespoon): Essential for thickening the luscious cheese sauce.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that highlight the natural sweetness of the seafood.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup, divided): Provides gooey meltiness and mild flavor in both the filling and sauce.
• Butter (1 ½ tablespoons, divided): Adds richness and helps create a silky sauce base.
• Cream cheese (8 oz): Brings a velvety, tangy creaminess to the filling.
• Heavy whipping cream (½ cup): Gives the sauce its luxurious smooth texture.
• Parmesan Reggiano cheese, grated (¾ cup): Delivers sharp, nutty flavor that elevates the sauce to amazing depths.
• Aluminum foil: Useful for covering the dish while baking to keep moisture in and flavors locked.

How to Make Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Prepare the Seafood

First, gently melt half a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until it becomes fragrant — about one minute will do. Then, toss in the lobster and crab meat and cook for 2 to 3 minutes to warm the seafood through while preserving its delicate texture. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside so it’s ready to be mixed into the filling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the cooked seafood with the cream cheese, half of your shredded mozzarella, plus salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together thoroughly to create a rich, creamy filling that’s bursting with fresh seafood flavor and just the right amount of cheesy indulgence.

Step 3: Cook the Jumbo Shells

Next, carefully cook the jumbo pasta shells following the package instructions until they’re al dente — tender but still holding their shape is ideal for stuffing. Drain them well and let them cool slightly so they’re easier to handle and won’t break when you fill them.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

Now it’s time to make that irresistible cheese sauce. Return to your skillet and melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Stir in the tablespoon of flour, cooking for about a minute while whisking constantly to form a smooth roux. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Once thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan and the remaining mozzarella until you have a glossy, creamy sauce that will perfectly coat your shells.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish and Bake

Here’s where everything comes together, so make sure to Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) before starting. Lightly spread a thin layer of your cheese sauce on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor beneath the shells. Fill each cooked shell generously with the seafood mixture and nestle them snugly in the baking dish. Pour the remaining cheese sauce all over so every edge is coated in creamy goodness. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Afterwards, remove the foil and continue baking another 10 minutes to let the top become beautifully golden and bubbling with anticipation.

How to Serve Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Garnishes

Once out of the oven, allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. Add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top to brighten the flavors and add a pop of color. These little touches really elevate the dish visually and taste-wise.

Side Dishes

This decadent seafood pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or warm, crusty baguette slices also complement the creamy shells perfectly, ready to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving individual stuffed shells in mini cast-iron skillets or pretty ramekins to make everything feel extra special. You can even garnish each shell with a small twist of lemon zest or a pinch of smoked paprika to give guests a hint of subtle brightness and spice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so they taste fantastic warmed up the next day.

Freezing

This dish freezes well either before or after baking. To freeze pre-assembled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake while still frozen (covered) until heated through, then uncover to brown the top.

Reheating

To reheat leftover stuffed shells, place them in a baking dish and cover with foil. Remember to Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and warm for about 15-20 minutes until steaming hot. This method keeps everything creamy and prevents drying out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of seafood?

Absolutely! Shrimp or scallops make great alternatives or additions if you want a bit of variety in your filling. Just make sure to cook them gently so they stay tender.

Do I have to use jumbo shells for this recipe?

Jumbo shells are ideal because they’re large enough to hold plenty of filling without falling apart, but you can experiment with large pasta shapes like manicotti if you prefer.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Dairy substitutes work, but keep in mind the creamy texture may differ. Try using plant-based cream cheese, vegan mozzarella, and a suitable nondairy cream for the sauce.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes! The seafood filling can be made a day in advance and kept refrigerated. Just fill and bake the shells fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Why is it important to Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) before baking?

Preheating the oven ensures the dish cooks evenly and the cheese sauce bubbles and browns properly, giving you that perfect golden crust and a silky, hot filling.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to impress with a dish that’s as elegant as it is comforting, this Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells recipe is a wonderful choice. The secret lies in perfectly balancing fresh seafood with rich, cheesy textures — all brought together in a baking dish at exactly the right temperature. So don’t forget to Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), and get ready to serve a meal that’s sure to become a beloved favorite at your table!

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