Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe

 

Quick Overview

If you’re craving a comforting dish that combines the richness of seafood with the delightful texture of pasta, then this creamy seafood stuffed shells recipe is perfect for you. This dish features large pasta shells generously filled with a creamy mixture of seafood and cheese, creating a delicious meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, these stuffed shells are sure to impress.

Ingredient Breakdown

Pasta Shells

To create the base of our dish, you will need 12-16 jumbo pasta shells. These larger shells provide ample space for filling and hold their shape well during baking.

Seafood Mix

Combine 1 cup of cooked shrimp and 1 cup of crab meat. The shrimp adds a sweet flavor while the crab brings a delicate taste that elevates the entire dish. You can also use scallops if you prefer.

Cream Cheese

Use 8 ounces of cream cheese at room temperature. This ingredient gives the filling its creamy texture and rich flavor. Make sure to blend it well with other ingredients for smoothness.

Parmesan Cheese

You will need 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This cheese enhances the flavor profile and adds a lovely cheesy crust when baked. It’s best to use fresh grated cheese for optimal melting.

Spinach

Incorporate 2 cups of fresh spinach into your mixture. Spinach not only adds color but also provides nutrients and a mild taste that complements the seafood beautifully.

Garlic

Use 2 cloves of minced garlic to enhance the overall flavor. Garlic brings aromatic qualities to the dish and pairs perfectly with both seafood and cream.

Heavy Cream

Add 1 cup of heavy cream for extra richness in the sauce. This ingredient creates a luxuriously creamy texture that binds all components together seamlessly.

Step By Step Recipe: Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures that your dish cooks evenly throughout once it enters the oven. Proper oven temperature is crucial for achieving that golden-brown topping on your stuffed shells.

Cook the Pasta Shells

Boil water in a large pot and add salt before cooking your jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until they are al dente. Drain them carefully to avoid breaking them apart. Rinsing with cold water can prevent further cooking as you prepare your filling.

Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine cooked shrimp, crab meat, cream cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, spinach, garlic, and heavy cream. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined; this process ensures each shell is filled evenly with delicious flavors.

Fill Pasta Shells

Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each cooked shell with the seafood mixture. Be generous but gentle to avoid splitting open the delicate pasta. Place each filled shell seam side up in a greased baking dish as you work through them.

Make the Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine remaining heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted and slightly thickened. Stir continuously to avoid burning; this sauce will coat your filled shells beautifully before baking.

Bake Your Dish

Pour the prepared sauce over the stuffed shells in your baking dish evenly covering them completely. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese on top for an added cheesy layer. Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Serving and Storing Tips

Serve Warm

Serve these creamy seafood stuffed shells hot from the oven with fresh parsley sprinkled on top for color! Pairing them with a light salad or garlic bread can make it an even more satisfying meal experience.

Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving again to maintain texture and flavor without drying out.

Freezing Tips

For longer storage, these stuffed shells can be frozen before baking! Assemble them in advance and freeze tightly covered; when ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen but extend cooking time by about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

This creamy seafood stuffed shells recipe promises satisfaction with every bite! Enjoy making this delightful dish at home as it brings comfort along with gourmet flavors right into your kitchen.

Mistakes to avoid

When making creamy seafood stuffed shells, avoid overcooking the pasta. Overcooked shells can become too soft, making them difficult to fill and hold their shape. Cook the shells just until al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.

Another mistake is using frozen seafood without thawing it properly. This can lead to excess water in your filling, resulting in a watery sauce. Always thaw seafood overnight in the refrigerator or under cold running water before cooking.

Don’t skip seasoning the filling. Seafood has a mild flavor that needs enhancement from herbs and spices. A lack of seasoning can result in bland stuffed shells, so season generously with salt, pepper, and your choice of fresh herbs.

Using low-quality cheese is another pitfall to avoid. Quality cheese melts better and adds creaminess to your dish. Opt for ricotta or mascarpone over cheaper alternatives to ensure rich flavor and texture in your creamy seafood stuffed shells.

Lastly, don’t forget to cover the dish with foil during baking. This helps retain moisture during cooking and prevents the tops from browning too quickly. Remove the foil for the last few minutes of baking for a golden finish.

Tips and tricks

For perfect creamy seafood stuffed shells, focus on your filling consistency. Combining ricotta cheese with cream or sour cream creates a rich, velvety texture that holds together well inside the pasta shell. Mix in sautéed garlic and onions to enhance flavor; this base adds depth without overwhelming the delicate seafood taste.

Consider adding fresh spinach or chopped herbs like parsley or dill to your filling for added freshness and color. These ingredients not only improve visual appeal but also boost nutritional value. Spinach wilts down nicely when cooked, creating a beautifully balanced dish that still feels light.

When assembling your stuffed shells, use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with one corner snipped off for easy filling. This method allows for precise control over how much filling goes into each shell while minimizing mess.

For an extra layer of flavor, try incorporating a splash of white wine into your sauce before simmering it down. The alcohol evaporates during cooking, leaving behind a subtle richness that complements the seafood beautifully.

Lastly, let your dish rest for about 10 minutes after baking before serving. This brief cooling period allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to serve clean portions without spilling out filling.

Suggestions for Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe

Pair creamy seafood stuffed shells with a refreshing green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing contrasts perfectly with the rich flavors of the dish and enhances overall meal balance.

For an added touch of comfort, consider serving garlic bread alongside your stuffed shells. The buttery garlic flavor complements the sea-inspired dish while providing a satisfying crunch that balances its creaminess.

If you want more variety, try using different types of seafood such as crab or lobster instead of shrimp or scallops in your recipe. Each type brings unique flavors and textures that can elevate this comforting meal even further.

A light wine pairing can enhance your dining experience as well; choose a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay that complements seafood dishes well without overpowering them.

Finally, don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses in your stuffing; blending mozzarella with feta can create exciting new flavors while maintaining creaminess that everyone loves in creamy seafood stuffed shells.

FAQs

What is a good side dish for creamy seafood stuffed shells?

A fresh garden salad works wonderfully as a side dish for creamy seafood stuffed shells. The crispness of mixed greens alongside tomatoes and cucumbers adds brightness to this rich main course. You can also serve it with garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce on plates which enhances the overall meal experience.

Can I use canned seafood instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned seafood like crab meat or tuna if fresh options are unavailable. Just make sure to drain it thoroughly before mixing it into your filling. Canned seafood tends to be softer than fresh varieties; therefore, adjust cooking times accordingly so they don’t become mushy during baking.

How do I store leftovers?

To store leftovers of creamy seafood stuffed shells recipe effectively, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Refrigerate immediately if consuming within three days; they can also be frozen for up to two months if stored properly. When reheating from frozen state, allow them to thaw overnight in refrigerator first before warming them up gently in oven or microwave.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare creamy seafood stuffed shells ahead by stuffing them earlier in the day or even freezing them unbaked for later use. If prepped ahead but not baked yet, cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake—just increase cooking time slightly if baking from chilled state.

What type of pasta should I use?

Jumbo pasta shells are traditional choices for this recipe due to their size which accommodates hearty fillings comfortably while allowing even distribution when baked nicely covered in sauce! However, you could also opt for manicotti tubes as an alternative if preferred!

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level depends largely on what seasonings you choose; feel free to add red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat! For milder options stick with basic salt & pepper along with herbs like parsley & dill that won’t overpower delicate flavors found within seafood itself!

Summary

In conclusion, making creamy seafood stuffed shells involves avoiding common mistakes such as overcooking pasta and neglecting seasoning while following helpful tips like creating balanced fillings with quality ingredients. Pairing these delicious shells with salads or garlic bread enhances enjoyment further! By addressing FAQs about sides and preparation methods thoughtfully ensures success every time you make this delightful dish at home!

 

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