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Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 106 reviews

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells combine tender lobster and crab meat with a rich, cheesy filling nestled inside jumbo pasta shells. Topped with a luscious Parmesan and mozzarella cream sauce, then baked to bubbly golden perfection, this comforting seafood casserole is perfect for an elegant dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Seafood Filling

  • 8 oz lobster meat
  • 8 oz lump crab meat
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided into 2 portions of ½ cup each)
  • 1 ½ tablespoons butter (divided)
  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • ½ cup heavy whipping cream
  • ¾ cup Parmesan Reggiano cheese, grated

For Baking

  • Aluminum foil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Seafood: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt ½ tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the lobster and crab meat, cooking for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.
  2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked seafood with cream cheese, ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined and creamy.
  3. Cook the Jumbo Shells: Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and let them cool slightly so they are easier to handle when filling.
  4. Prepare the Sauce: Using the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the heavy whipping cream, ensuring a smooth mixture. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and well combined.
  5. Assemble the Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the cheese sauce on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking. Stuff each cooled pasta shell generously with the seafood filling and place them in the baking dish in a single layer. Pour the remaining cheese sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.
  6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
  7. Serve: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. Optionally garnish with extra grated Parmesan or fresh herbs like parsley or basil. Serve warm for a delicious and indulgent seafood pasta dish.

Notes

  • Ensure the pasta shells are cooled slightly before stuffing to prevent tearing.
  • Use fresh seafood for the best flavor, or thaw properly if using frozen.
  • The sauce can be made ahead and reheated gently before baking.
  • For a more intense flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
  • Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.

Keywords: seafood stuffed shells, lobster pasta, crab stuffed shells, creamy baked pasta, seafood casserole, parmesan cheese seafood pasta

Find it online: https://platedbyemma.com/creamy-seafood-stuffed-shells-recipe/