Seafood Stuffed Shells

A warm aroma wafts through the kitchen as the golden cheese melts over the seafood-filled pasta shells, inviting everyone to the table. Seafood Stuffed Shells are a delightful blend of lobster, crab, and shrimp wrapped in tender pasta, taking about 50 minutes to prepare and bake. This dish works beautifully because it combines rich flavors and textures, creating a satisfying meal that feels indulgent without being overly complicated.

This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers and is ideal for gatherings or cozy family dinners. You can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance and bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures, from the creamy filling to the tender pasta.
• The combination of seafood makes this dish rich and flavorful, perfect for special occasions.
• The easy preparation allows you to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Baking brings the flavors together beautifully, creating a bubbly, golden topping.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish.

For the Filling

• 20 large pasta shells
• 1 cup lobster meat, cooked and chopped
• 1 cup crab meat, cooked and shredded
• 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream

You can use shrimp substitutes if needed.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ricotta cheese: cottage cheese
• Heavy cream: half-and-half
• Lobster meat: more shrimp or crab
• Fresh parsley: dried parsley

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Seafood Stuffed Shells.

Preheat the oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the pasta

Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.

Mix the filling

In a large bowl, combine lobster, crab, shrimp, ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the shells

Spoon the seafood mixture into each pasta shell, generously filling them.

Prepare the baking dish

Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.

Arrange the shells

Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish and pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top.

Add cream and cheese

Drizzle heavy cream over the shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Cover and bake

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Uncover and brown

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Allow to cool slightly before serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, this dish freezes well for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave for 2-3 minutes or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the seafood is fresh for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be slightly firm before baking.
• Use a mixture of cheeses for a richer taste.
• Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving to enhance flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad for a light meal.
• Serve with garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.
• Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine for a touch of elegance.