Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender pasta shells overflowing with luscious lobster and crab, all nestled in the dreamiest blanket of creamy cheese sauce. Every bite delivers a wave of cozy warmth and decadence, making it impossible to stop smiling as you dig in. Perfect for special occasions or any time you’re craving a little luxury, this dish comes together so simply and all you need to remember before you dive in, is to preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) for that unbeatable golden finish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe comes together easily with a handful of standout ingredients that truly make every element shine. Each one plays a crucial role, from boosting flavor to lending those creamy and rich textures that set this dish apart from the rest.

• Jumbo pasta shells: Their wide openings are perfect for scooping up plenty of that creamy seafood filling.
• Lobster meat (8 oz): Sweet, succulent, and brings an understated luxury to your table.
• Lump crab meat (8 oz): Adds delicate ocean flavor and extra texture to each shell.
• Garlic cloves (3, minced): Sautéed garlic infuses the seafood with irresistible aroma and depth.
• All-purpose flour (1 tbsp): Helps thicken the cheese sauce for perfect creaminess.
• Butter (1 ½ tbsp, divided): Creates a luscious base for both seafood and sauce.
• Cream cheese (8 oz): Melts into the filling for rich, tangy smoothness.
• Heavy whipping cream (½ cup): Adds a plush, velvety consistency to the sauce.
• Parmesan Reggiano cheese (¾ cup, grated): Sharp and nutty, it boosts the sauce’s personality.
• Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded, divided): Melty goodness folded into the filling and sauce for extra gooey bites.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for brightening and balancing every component.
• Aluminum foil: Keeps moisture in while baking, then promotes lovely browning once removed.

How to Make Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Prepare the Seafood

Start by setting the stage with the true stars of this dish — the sweet lobster and crab. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt ½ tablespoon of butter. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add in the lobster and crab meat, gently stirring just until the flavors marry and the seafood is warmed through, which only takes about two or three minutes. Remove your seafood mixture from heat and set aside; you don’t want to overcook these delicate morsels.

Step 2: Make the Filling

Transfer the sautéed seafood to a mixing bowl. Add the cream cheese and half of your shredded mozzarella (so creamy and dreamy!), plus a good sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix with a spatula until thoroughly combined. You’ll notice the filling becomes smooth and irresistible — the cream cheese hugs every bit of seafood, making what might be the most tempting filling you’ll ever encounter.

Step 3: Cook the Jumbo Shells

While the filling cools and comes together, turn your attention to the pasta shells. Cook them according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente. Be sure to give them a gentle stir during cooking to prevent sticking, and once drained, rinse them lightly with cool water. This makes them easier to handle and keeps them from becoming too soft before you stuff them.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

Use the same skillet for the sauce to capture all those flavor-rich bits left behind from the seafood step. Melt the remaining butter over medium heat, then sprinkle in the flour, whisking constantly for a minute to create a smooth roux. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, continuing to whisk, then add the grated Parmesan and remaining mozzarella. Stir patiently until the cheese melts fully, and the sauce becomes rich and glossy — it’s creamy, thick, and entirely irresistible.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish and Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Now comes the fun part: putting it all together! First, Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells so it’s ready for the grand bake. Spread a thin layer of the silky cheese sauce across the bottom of your baking dish. One by one, fill each cooled shell with the seafood mixture and nestle them neatly into the dish. Pour the remaining cheese sauce over the top, ensuring every shell gets its beautiful share.

Step 6: Bake

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and slide it into your preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld and everything heat through. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, just long enough for the top to turn golden and the sauce to bubble invitingly. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, making the wait very difficult!

Step 7: Serve

Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the cheese sauce thickens slightly and the flavors settle. Use a wide spatula to scoop out the shells, making sure to get every drop of that creamy sauce. Now you’re ready to garnish, plate, and dig in!

How to Serve Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Garnishes

Before you take these stuffed shells to the table, be generous with a shower of extra grated Parmesan or even a sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs like chives or parsley. A touch of fresh lemon zest can also brighten the flavors and add beautiful color. Each of these garnishes brings a little contrast and freshness to the creamy, indulgent shells.

Side Dishes

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells pair beautifully with simple sides. A crisp green salad lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette helps cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a rustic baguette is also a must, ready to mop up every bit of the decadent sauce. Steamed asparagus or roasted broccolini add a pop of color and a little bite to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, try serving the shells individually in small oven-safe dishes for a restaurant-style experience. You can also scatter a handful of microgreens across the plate or arrange the shells in a spiral pattern in a round dish for a showstopping centerpiece. And don’t forget: announcing, “Make sure to Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells
,” adds a little chef’s flourish to your hosting style!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the shells cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce will thicken as it chills, but the flavors become even more pronounced after resting!

Freezing

These shells freeze wonderfully. Arrange them in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and tuck them away for up to two months. For optimal taste, allow them to thaw overnight in the fridge before you plan to reheat.

Reheating

To bring back all that creamy magic, Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells. Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through (about 20-25 minutes). If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of cream or milk before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use other types of seafood?

Absolutely! While lobster and crab offer a delightfully lavish flavor, you can substitute with shrimp, scallops, or even a white fish like cod. Just make sure your seafood is cooked gently and chopped so it nestles perfectly into the shells.

Is it necessary to Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells?

Yes, it’s essential! Preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) ensures the shells bake evenly, the sauce bubbles, and the cheese gets gorgeously golden on top. If you start with a cold oven, the dish might cook unevenly and the result just won’t be the same.

Can I assemble this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the shells and sauce, assemble everything in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to a day in advance. When you’re ready to bake, simply Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells and pop the dish straight in — perfect for entertaining!

What’s the best way to keep the shells from breaking?

Cook the shells al dente and handle them gently from the boiling pot to the filling station. Rinsing with cool water helps stop the cooking and makes them easier to stuff, so you’ll have fewer shell casualties along the way.

How do I know when the shells are done baking?

Look for the telltale signs: the sauce should be bubbling around the edges, the cheese on top will be attractively golden, and you’ll smell the irresistible blend of seafood and cheese filling your kitchen! Depending on your oven, you may need to adjust the time by a few minutes.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about sharing a big baking dish of Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells with family and friends. If you’ve been craving a meal that’s equal parts impressive and heartwarming, don’t hesitate to try this recipe — just remember, everything starts when you Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells! Your kitchen (and your taste buds) will thank you.

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