Baked seafood stuffed shells with creamy filling and garnished herbs

Seafood Stuffed Shells

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Why Make This Recipe

Seafood stuffed shells are a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of shrimp and crab with creamy cheese to create an unforgettable meal. This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers who enjoy a filling and tasty dinner. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can easily impress friends and family. If you want more delicious seafood recipes, check out this seafood collection for inspiration.

How to Make Seafood Stuffed Shells

Ingredients:

  • 24 jumbo pasta shells
  • ½ tbsp olive oil
  • ½ onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 oz. raw peeled and deveined shrimp, chopped
  • 18 oz. lump crab meat
  • ½ tsp Old Bay seasoning
  • 2 tsp lemon juice
  • 4 oz. cream cheese
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • ½ tsp salt
  • Pinch pepper and garlic powder
  • 1½ cups milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package directions, then drain and let dry on paper towels.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion with a sprinkle of salt and cook until softened. Then, add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  3. Incorporate the chopped shrimp and crab meat, then season with Old Bay. Cook until the shrimp turns pink.
  4. In a large bowl, mix the seafood with lemon juice, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and chopped parsley until well combined.
  5. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour until smooth. Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking until thickened.
  6. Spread ½ cup of the prepared sauce in a greased casserole dish.
  7. Stuff each shell with the seafood mixture and arrange them in the casserole dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the shells.
  8. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter in a bowl, then sprinkle over the shells along with the Parmesan cheese.
  9. Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown and bubbling. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.

How to Serve Seafood Stuffed Shells

Serve seafood stuffed shells hot, directly from the oven. They pair well with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also offer a sprinkle of extra parsley or lemon wedges on the side for added flavor.

How to Store Seafood Stuffed Shells

If you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely. Store the shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, baking at 350°F until warmed through.

Tips to Make Seafood Stuffed Shells

  • Make sure not to overcook the shrimp; it cooks quickly and will become tough if cooked too long.
  • For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs in the stuffing.
  • If you prefer a spicier version, add a dash of hot sauce to the seafood mixture.

Variation

You can experiment with different types of seafood in this dish, such as scallops or lobster. Additionally, for a vegetarian option, substitute the seafood with spinach and ricotta cheese.

FAQs

Can I make seafood stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate before baking.

Can I freeze seafood stuffed shells?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just ensure they’re in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, bake them directly from frozen.

What can I serve with seafood stuffed shells?
They go well with a variety of side dishes like steamed veggies, a simple salad, or garlic bread.

Conclusion

Seafood stuffed shells are not only delicious but also versatile, making them a fantastic option for any meal. For a detailed and flavorful take on seafood-stuffed shells, check out this Seafood-Stuffed Shells Recipe – Serious Eats. Enjoy making this dish at home!