Savory Seafood-Packed Shells: A Cozy Comfort Recipe

Shells bursting with creamy seafood stuffing promise a delightful culinary adventure that’ll transport you straight to coastal dining bliss.

Rich, plump pasta shells cradle a luxurious blend of tender seafood and velvety cream cheese.

Each bite delivers a symphony of maritime flavors that dance across your palate with elegant complexity.

Succulent shrimp and delicate crab mingle with aromatic herbs and smooth, tangy cheese.

The recipe balances indulgence and freshness, creating a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated.

Perfectly seasoned and baked to golden perfection, these stuffed shells elevate weeknight dinners into memorable gastronomic experiences.

Prepare to impress and savor every decadent mouthful of this seafood sensation.

What to Eat with Seafood Stuffed Shells

• Elevate Seafood Elegance with Perfect Pairings
• Savor Crisp White Wine: Pair this creamy seafood dish with a chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the rich, buttery flavors and cut through the sauce's richness.
• Match Refreshing Salad: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette and toasted pine nuts to provide a fresh, zesty contrast to the heavy seafood shells.
• Complement with Crusty Bread: Serve warm, garlic-rubbed sourdough or French baguette to soak up the delicious cream sauce and add a delightful textural element to the meal.
• Enhance with Citrus Garnish: Sprinkle fresh lemon zest or add a small wedge on the side to brighten the dish and enhance the seafood's natural flavors.

Alternative Styles for Stuffed Seafood Shells

• Gluten-Free Seafood Shells: Replace wheat flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend in the cream sauce. Use gluten-free pasta shells to maintain the recipe's core structure while accommodating celiac or gluten-sensitive diners.
• Dairy-Free Ocean Alternative: Substitute cream cheese with cashew cream or tofu-based alternative. Use coconut milk instead of dairy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a plant-based version that preserves the rich, creamy texture.
• Low-Carb Seafood Bake: Replace pasta shells with blanched zucchini boats or large bell pepper halves. Keep the seafood and cream sauce intact, transforming the dish into a protein-packed, low-carbohydrate meal that's keto-friendly and nutrient-dense.
• Vegetarian Seafood Swap: Replace seafood with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, hearts of palm, and artichoke hearts. Maintain the cream sauce and cheese components to create a vegetarian version that still delivers complex, satisfying flavors.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of seafood in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap shrimp and lobster with crab, scallops, or a mix of seafood you prefer. Just ensure the seafood is fresh and cooked properly.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the recipe uses flour for the roux and regular pasta shells. To make it gluten-free, you’ll need to substitute with gluten-free flour and gluten-free pasta shells.

• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and refrigerate. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook.

• How spicy is this recipe?

The recipe isn’t inherently spicy. The Old Bay seasoning adds mild flavor, but you can increase heat by adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce if desired.

Why Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Work

• Impress your guests with a restaurant-quality dish that looks sophisticated but requires minimal culinary expertise. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a stunning seafood masterpiece that feels gourmet yet approachable.
• Perfect for special gatherings, date nights, or family dinners, these stuffed shells cater to seafood lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike. The combination of creamy sauce, tender seafood, and cheesy goodness creates a universally appealing meal.
• Prep and cook this dish with ease, making it ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous cooking adventures. Swap seafood types, adjust seasonings, or add extra vegetables to make the recipe uniquely yours without compromising its delicious core.
• Packed with protein from shrimp and lobster, balanced with spinach and cheese, this recipe offers a delightful blend of flavor and nutrition. Each bite delivers a wholesome, satisfying experience that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

What’s Inside the Seafood Stuffed Shells

• Shrimp: Succulent seafood that adds sweet and tender protein to the dish.
• Lobster: Rich and delicate seafood that provides luxurious flavor to the stuffed shells.

• Pasta Shells: Large pasta shells designed to hold the creamy seafood filling perfectly.

• Cream Cheese: Creates a smooth and rich base for the seafood filling.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp and salty flavor to enhance the overall taste.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Provides a stretchy and melty topping for the baked dish.
• Butter: Helps create a rich base for cooking seafood and making cream sauce.
• Cream, Almond Milk: Contribute to the creamy and luxurious sauce texture.

• Spinach: Adds nutritional value and green color to the seafood filling.
• Garlic: Provides a robust and aromatic flavor to the cream sauce.

• Old Bay Seasoning: Classic seafood seasoning that complements the seafood perfectly.
• White Wine: Adds depth and complexity to the cream sauce.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Flour: Helps thicken the cream sauce and create a smooth consistency.

Making Seafood Stuffed Shells Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

Cook the pasta shells slightly under the recommended time to keep them firm.

Drain and quickly rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.

Step 2: Craft Luxurious Cream Sauce

Heat a skillet and create a smooth roux by melting butter and whisking in flour.

• Heavy cream
• Almond milk
• White wine

Stir continuously to prevent lumps.

Add minced garlic, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper.

Simmer until the sauce thickens and develops a rich, velvety texture.

Step 3: Sear Succulent Seafood

• Shrimp
• Lobster

Sauté for 3-4 minutes on each side until perfectly cooked through.

Transfer to a mixing bowl.

Step 4: Mix Delectable Filling

• Cream cheese
• Chopped spinach
• Parmesan cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Old Bay seasoning
• Salt and pepper

Blend until the mixture is creamy and well-incorporated.

Step 5: Assemble Decadent Shells

Spread a layer of cream sauce in a baking dish.

Generously fill each pasta shell with the seafood mixture.

Arrange the stuffed shells snugly in the dish.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Cover the baking dish with foil.

Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.

Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes until the top turns golden brown and slightly crispy.

Tips for Cooking Stuffed Shells Perfectly

• Subtract 2 minutes from package instructions to maintain ideal shell texture. Rinse with cold water immediately after boiling to prevent sticking and ensure easy handling.
• Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp and lobster for the most flavorful filling. Opt for wild-caught seafood if possible to enhance the overall taste and texture of the dish.
• Whisk liquids slowly into the roux to prevent lumps, creating a silky, creamy sauce. Stir continuously and use low heat for the smoothest possible result.
• Let the cheese melt naturally during baking for a more even, creamy consistency. Blend cheeses thoroughly to distribute flavor throughout the filling.
• Swap seafood with plant-based alternatives like hearts of palm or artichokes for a vegetarian version. Use gluten-free pasta shells and flour to make the recipe celiac-friendly.

Save and Reheat Seafood Shells the Smart Way

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup and maintain texture.
• Wrap individual shells or the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label with date and contents.
• Place shells on microwave-safe plate. Cover with damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring gently between each interval until warmed through.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Place shells in baking dish, splash little extra cream sauce to prevent drying. Cover with foil, warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove foil last 5 minutes for crispy cheese top.

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe

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4.8 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Sumptuous seafood stuffed shells bring coastal Italian magic to dinner tables with rich, cheesy goodness. Delicate pasta pockets cradle a luxurious blend of succulent shrimp and crab, promising a restaurant-worthy meal you can savor at home.

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Ingredients

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Seafood and Main Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, chopped
• 8 ounces (226 grams) lobster meat
• 8 ounces (226 grams) lump crab meat
• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese
• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups finely chopped fresh spinach

Dairy and Cheese:

• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup (60 grams) grated Parmesan Reggiano cheese
• 1/4 cup (30 grams) grated Parmesan Reggiano cheese
• 1 cup (100 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese

Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 tablespoons (21 grams) butter
• 1 tablespoon (8 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) unsweetened almond milk
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) dry white wine
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
• salt and pepper to taste
• foil

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Instructions

1. Prepare pasta shells by boiling them 2 minutes less than package instructions to maintain structural integrity. Immediately rinse in cold water to halt cooking and prevent adhesion.
2. Create velvety sauce by melting butter in skillet, whisking in flour to develop a smooth roux. Gradually incorporate cream, almond milk, and white wine, stirring consistently to prevent clumping. Infuse with garlic, Parmesan, and seasonings until sauce reaches luxurious thickness.
3. Sear seafood in butter, cooking shrimp and lobster 3-4 minutes per side until perfectly cooked through. Transfer protein to separate mixing bowl.
4. Craft filling by blending seafood, cream cheese, spinach, Parmesan, mozzarella, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper until mixture achieves uniform, creamy consistency.
5. Generously stuff each shell with approximately 1½ tablespoons of seafood mixture. Arrange shells in baking dish atop a preliminary layer of cream sauce, positioning them closely together.
6. Bake covered at 350°F for 20 minutes. Uncover and continue baking 5-10 minutes until cheese develops golden, slightly crispy surface.

Notes

• Adjust shell cooking time carefully to maintain perfect texture, ensuring they’re firm yet pliable for easy stuffing.
• Use fresh seafood for maximum flavor, selecting high-quality shrimp and lobster that are sustainably sourced.
• Consider dairy-free alternatives by substituting cream cheese with cashew cream and using plant-based cheese options for a lactose-free version.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 150mg