Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of simmering garlic and melted butter swept me away to a cozy seaside bistro. What was I crafting? A delightful dish of creamy seafood stuffed shells—made even more special with succulent lobster, crab, and shrimp. These mouthwatering treats are not just a feast for the senses; they promise to transform any dinner into an unforgettable event. Perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a relaxing evening at home, this creamy seafood stuffed shells recipe stands out for its quick prep and elegant presentation. I can’t help but dream about how that cheesy, bubbling goodness will make my loved ones smile. Are you ready to dive into this delicious ocean of flavors? Let’s get cooking! Why will you adore these stuffed shells? Unforgettable flavors: This dish combines succulent lobster, crab, and shrimp in a creamy filling that’s incredibly satisfying. Quick preparation: With simple steps, you’ll have a gourmet meal ready in just over an hour. Crowd-pleaser: Your guests will rave about these creamy seafood stuffed shells—perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Versatile options: Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different seafood or swap in veggies for a twist! Check out my Deviled Egg Pasta for another delightful idea. Perfect pairings: Serve alongside garlic bread and a fresh salad, or elevate your meal with a glass of crisp Chardonnay for a restaurant-quality experience. Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Ingredients • Dive into this recipe with the following essential ingredients for your creamy seafood stuffed shells: For the Pasta Jumbo Pasta Shells – Essential for holding the seafood filling and creating that perfect shape. For the Filling Lobster Meat – The star protein that brings a luxurious touch to your dish; feel free to substitute with cooked shrimp for a delightful twist. Crab Meat – Adds a sweet and delicate flavor; imitation crab can work in a pinch if you’re looking for convenience. Cream Cheese – Ensures creaminess and binds all the flavors together well; opt for light cream cheese for a healthier option. Shredded Mozzarella – Provides stretch and creaminess; can be swapped with provolone for a unique taste. For the Seasoning Garlic – The aromatic base that enhances the dish’s overall flavor; fresh garlic is ideal, but powdered works if you’re short on time. Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; always adjust to taste for the best results. For the Sauce Butter – Richness and flavor are key, but olive oil can be a lighter substitute. Flour – Thickens the sauce for that decadent texture; gluten-free flour is a great alternative if needed. Heavy Cream – Delivers a velvety texture; milk can be used instead, but it will make for a thinner sauce—add extra cheese if you do! Grated Parmesan Cheese – For flavor and texture in the sauce; nutritional yeast is a lovely vegetarian substitute. Enjoy crafting your delicious creamy seafood stuffed shells, and let the delightful flavors whisk you away on a culinary adventure! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Step 1: Prepare the Seafood Begin by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, gently mix in 1 cup of chopped lobster meat and 1 cup of crab meat, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until warmed through. Remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside to cool. Step 2: Make the Filling In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed seafood mixture with 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir the mixture vigorously until every ingredient is fully incorporated and the filling is creamy and cohesive. This delicious mixture is the star of your creamy seafood stuffed shells! Step 3: Cook the Jumbo Shells Next, boil a pot of salted water. Add 20 jumbo pasta shells and cook them according to package instructions, usually around 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Once the shells are ready, drain them and rinse them gently under cold water to prevent sticking. Set them aside to cool, so they are easy to handle when filling. Step 4: Prepare the Sauce Return to the skillet and melt an additional 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour until smooth; cook for about 1 minute. Gradually pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and an additional 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Cook until the sauce is thick and creamy, about 3-5 minutes. Step 5: Assemble the Dish Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the cheese sauce on the bottom. Carefully stuff each jumbo shell with the creamy seafood filling, placing them seam-side up in the baking dish. Once all the shells are filled, pour the remaining cheese sauce over the top, ensuring even coverage for a rich flavor. Step 6: Bake Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the creamy seafood stuffed shells in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes. Look for the top to become bubbly and golden, signaling that they are ready to be enjoyed. Step 7: Serve Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. For a lovely finishing touch, garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or basil. Serve these creamy seafood stuffed shells warm, and watch your loved ones revel in the delightful flavors! Expert Tips for Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Choose Al Dente: Make sure to cook the jumbo shells until al dente to prevent them from breaking when you fill them with the creamy seafood mixture. Gentle Handling: Always handle the stuffed shells with care—use a spoon to gently lift them onto your baking dish to avoid any cracks. Make-Ahead Option: Consider prepping these creamy seafood stuffed shells a day in advance. Assemble them and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Customize Your Filling: Feel free to experiment! Swap the lobster or crab for shrimp or scallops for a unique twist on this classic dish. Creamier Sauce: If you want an even richer sauce, add more cheese or use a combination of heavy cream and half-and-half for a lighter yet still creamy texture. Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells: Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own—your taste buds will thank you! Seafood Swap: Replace lobster with shrimp for a different flavor profile. This simple swap keeps it delightful! Vegetarian Delight: Use a filling of spinach and ricotta for a delicious vegetarian option. It offers a fresh, wholesome twist to the traditional recipe. Lighten Up: Opt for light cream cheese and half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce calories without compromising on creamy goodness. It’s a nice way to enjoy indulgence while being mindful. Herb Garden: Enhance the cheese sauce with fresh herbs like basil or thyme. Not only does it add color, but the aroma will tantalize your senses! Extra Zing: Add a dash of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. This twist tickles the palate and spices up those cozy dinners! Cheesy Combinations: Mix in different cheeses, like Gruyere or fontina, for a unique flavor blend. Cheese lovers, rejoice! The richness will take your stuffed shells to another level. Substitutes for Sauce: If you’re out of heavy cream, whole milk works in a pinch. Just remember to add a bit more cheese to maintain that luscious creaminess. Nourishing Veggies: Incorporate cooked zucchini or mushrooms into your filling. They add lovely texture and additional nutrients for an even heartier meal! If you’re looking for more pasta inspirations, why not try my Herby Ricotta Stuffed peppers for a fun twist or an incredibly creamy Tomato Pasta One that tantalizes the taste buds? Enjoy the flavors and the journey of creating your delicious masterpieces! What to Serve with Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells? Create an incredible dining experience with delightful pairings that elevate the enchanting flavors of your creamy seafood stuffed shells. Garlic Bread: The buttery, crusty goodness of garlic bread complements the rich filling, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite. Fresh Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast, balancing the creaminess with crisp textures and vibrant colors. Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled in lemon will brighten the dish, adding not only a pop of color but a burst of freshness to each bite. Roasted Vegetables: Sweet roasted carrots and bell peppers add sweetness and depth, harmonizing beautifully with the hearty flavors of the seafood. Crisp White Wine: Enjoy a chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the creaminess, enhancing your meal experience with complementary acidity. Lemon Sorbet: A light, citrusy sorbet offers a refreshing finale, cleansing the palate and balancing the richness of the meal. Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa seasoned with fresh herbs provides a nutty element, adding a wholesome grain option to round out the meal. Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchy, tangy coleslaw creates a delightful textural contrast while adding a zesty flair to your table. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: These roasted sprouts with a sweet, tangy glaze will add a gourmet touch, echoing the umami flavors of your dish. Chocolate Mousse: End the evening on a sweet note with a rich chocolate mousse, offering a luxurious way to celebrate the flavors of your dinner. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are the perfect choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade dish without the last-minute rush. You can assemble the stuffed shells up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil and refrigerate. To maintain their creamy texture, be sure to add an additional splash of heavy cream or milk to the sauce before pouring it over the shells. When you’re ready to serve, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20 minutes covered, then uncover and bake for an extra 10 minutes until bubbly and golden. You’ll have a delightful meal ready to impress with minimal effort! How to Store and Freeze Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes for best results. Freezer: If you have prepared a batch ahead of time, freeze the assembled stuffed shells before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months; bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed. Reheating: For optimal texture, reheat baked shells in the oven. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven keeps the filling creamy and the top golden. Make-Ahead: If you want the convenience of a quick meal, prepare these creamy seafood stuffed shells in advance and refrigerate; just bake when ready to serve. Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe FAQs How do I select the right seafood for the filling? Absolutely! When choosing your seafood, look for fresh lobster, crab, and shrimp that have a pleasant, briny smell. The lobster should be firm and ideally bright in color, while the crab should be sweet without any off-putting odors. If you can find sustainably sourced options, that’s an added bonus! How should I store leftover creamy seafood stuffed shells? You can store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to maintain the creamy texture and warmth. Be sure to cover them with foil to prevent the top from over-browning. Can I freeze creamy seafood stuffed shells? Absolutely! To freeze, prepare your stuffed shells, but do not bake them. Instead, wrap the assembled shells tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place them in the freezer. They can last up to 2 months this way. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat the oven and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time when baking from frozen. What if my sauce turns out too thin? If your sauce ends up being thinner than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply whisk in a bit more flour to thicken it. You can create a slurry with a tablespoon of flour mixed with a small amount of water, then gradually add it to your sauce while whisking continuously. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. Are these creamy seafood stuffed shells safe for pets? It’s best to avoid giving these creamy seafood stuffed shells to pets. Ingredients like garlic and certain cheeses aren’t suitable for them and can be harmful in larger quantities. Always consult your veterinarian if you’re uncertain. What kind of variations can I try with this recipe? The possibilities are endless! You can swap out the seafood for shrimp or even scallops for a different flavor profile. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using a mix of sautéed spinach and ricotta cheese instead. Also, adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme can give the cheese sauce a lovely aromatic lift! Deliciously Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells for Cozy Dinners No ratings yet A delightful dish of creamy seafood stuffed shells made with lobster, crab, and shrimp, perfect for any cozy dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: SeafoodCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta20 pieces Jumbo Pasta ShellsFor the Filling1 cup Lobster Meat Can substitute with cooked shrimp1 cup Crab Meat Imitation crab can work in a pinch8 ounces Cream Cheese Opt for light cream cheese for a healthier option1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Can be swapped with provoloneFor the Seasoning2 cloves Garlic Minced; fresh garlic is idealto taste Salt & Pepper Always adjust to tasteFor the Sauce4 tablespoons Butter Can substitute with olive oil2 tablespoons Flour Gluten-free flour is a great alternative1 cup Heavy Cream Milk can be used but will be thinner½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast is a vegetarian substitute Equipment Large skillet9x13-inch baking dishMixing Bowl Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Seafood Stuffed ShellsPrepare the Seafood: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Mix in 1 cup of chopped lobster meat and 1 cup of crab meat, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until warmed through. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside to cool.Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed seafood mixture with 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the filling is creamy.Cook the Jumbo Shells: Boil a pot of salted water. Add 20 jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions for 9-11 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside to cool.Prepare the Sauce: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the skillet. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour until smooth; cook for 1 minute. Gradually pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, whisking to prevent lumps. Stir in ½ cup grated Parmesan and 1 cup shredded mozzarella. Cook until thick and creamy, about 3-5 minutes.Assemble the Dish: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of cheese sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Stuff each shell with the creamy filling, placing them seam-side up. Pour the remaining cheese sauce over the top.Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs. Serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg NotesFeel free to customize your filling by swapping seafood or adding vegetables. For extra creaminess, mix in more cheese or use half-and-half. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
