Introduction
Welcome to an ocean of flavor with these delightful Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells! Perfectly cooked pasta shells cradle a delicious filling of rich cheeses and succulent seafood, bringing the best taste of the sea right to your dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply gathering the family for a cozy night in, this dish promises warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Let’s dive into this creamy, cheesy, and utterly fabulous recipe!
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup cooked crab meat
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), creating the perfect warm environment for our shells to bake.
- Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain them gently and set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped shrimp, and crab meat. Add in the softened cream cheese, fresh parsley, minced garlic, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until the ingredients are beautifully blended.
- Take each cooked shell and stuff it generously with the creamy seafood mixture. Place the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish, fitting them snugly together.
- Evenly pour the marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring each one is lovingly coated.
- If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle a little extra mozzarella on top for that golden touch!
- Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and glistening with a gorgeous golden hue.
- Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving, letting those enticing aromas fill your kitchen.
Notes or Tips
For added depth of flavor, consider mixing in some sautéed spinach or artichokes to your seafood filling. This recipe is flexible, so feel free to substitute with your favorite seafood or use a blend of spices to customize the taste to your liking!
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of stuffed pasta shells involves a little technique, but it’s all in the fun of creating! Ensure your shells are cooked just right so they’re pliable enough to stuff without breaking. Be gentle when mixing the filling, as you want to keep the delicate seafood pieces intact. Baking covered helps steam the shells while baking, keeping everything moist and flavorful.
FAQ
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
You can definitely prepare the stuffed shells the day before. Simply stuff them, cover them with marinara sauce, and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, allow them to come to room temperature before popping them in the oven.
What if I don’t have seafood on hand?
No worries! This dish can easily be adapted to a vegetarian option. You can replace the seafood with sautéed mushrooms or a medley of your favorite veggies for a hearty twist.
Conclusion
These Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are more than just a meal; they’re a warm hug from the inside out! Each bite offers a blend of textures and flavors that will delight your taste buds, making this dish a favorite at your dining table. So gather your loved ones, share some laughter, and savor the comfort of good home-cooked food. Happy cooking!