Seafood Stuffed Shells: 7 Steps to Irresistible Flavor

Name: Seafood Stuffed Shells: 7 Steps to Irresistible Flavor
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 jumbo pasta shells; 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped; 1 cup cooked crab meat; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

septembre 14, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish: seafood stuffed shells! There’s just something so satisfying about those jumbo pasta shells filled to the brim with a creamy mixture of shrimp and crab. Every bite is a flavor explosion that takes me straight to a cozy Italian trattoria. Trust me, once you try making these at home, you’ll be hooked! They’re perfect for a family dinner or even a special occasion. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful recipe that’s as comforting as it is delicious!

seafood stuffed shells - detail 1

Ingredients for Seafood Stuffed Shells

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up these delicious seafood stuffed shells. I promise it’s worth it!

12 jumbo pasta shells
1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
1 cup cooked crab meat
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 cup marinara sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before you start cooking. It makes the process so much smoother, and you won’t have to run around the kitchen at the last minute! Fresh seafood really elevates the flavors, so if you can, go for that. Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Seafood Stuffed Shells

Let’s dive into the deliciousness of making these seafood stuffed shells! I promise you’ll be amazed at how simple and satisfying this process is. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress!

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is super important because we want those shells to bake perfectly golden and bubbly!
Next, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Usually, it takes about 8-10 minutes for them to get tender. Once they’re done, drain them carefully and set them aside. Be gentle; we don’t want to tear them!
Now, in a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, crab meat, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Oh wow, the aroma is already heavenly! Mix everything together until it’s well combined—don’t rush this part!
Grab your cooked pasta shells and start filling each one with the seafood mixture. I like to use a spoon, but you could also use a piping bag for a cleaner look. Just pack them generously; it’s all about that creamy goodness!
Spread about half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the shells from sticking. Arrange the stuffed shells snugly in the dish, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Yes, let that sauce drizzle everywhere!
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for 25 minutes—this helps everything meld together beautifully.
After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. You want to see that sauce bubbling and maybe even a little cheese browning on top. Yum!
Finally, let your seafood stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving. This waiting game is worth it; trust me!

And there you have it! Simple steps to create a dish that’s not only delicious but looks fancy enough for a dinner party. Enjoy every bite, my friend!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Oh, let me count the reasons why seafood stuffed shells will become your new favorite dish! Once you’ve tasted these, you’ll understand why I rave about them. Here’s why you’ll fall in love:

Quick Preparation: With just a little bit of chopping and mixing, you’ll have these stuffed shells ready to bake in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Rich Flavors: The combination of shrimp, crab, and creamy cheeses creates a flavor explosion that’s out of this world. It’s like a hug in a shell!
Versatile: Feel free to swap out the seafood for your favorites or even go vegetarian! You can customize the filling to suit your taste buds.
Impressive Presentation: These shells look fancy and gourmet, making them ideal for entertaining guests or special occasions. Your friends will think you’re a culinary genius!
Comfort Food: There’s nothing like digging into a warm dish of cheesy seafood goodness. It’s comforting, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious!
Leftover Friendly: If you happen to have any leftovers (which isn’t likely!), they reheat beautifully, making for a tasty lunch the next day.

Trust me, once you make these seafood stuffed shells, you’ll be dreaming about them long after the last bite. They’re a delightful treat that brings the taste of Italy right to your kitchen!

Tips for Success

To make sure your seafood stuffed shells turn out absolutely perfect every time, here are some of my favorite pro tips! I’ve learned these through trial and error (and a few happy accidents), so you don’t have to!

Use Fresh Seafood: Whenever possible, opt for fresh shrimp and crab meat. The flavor is out of this world and really elevates the dish. If you’re using frozen, just make sure to thaw it properly beforehand!
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: When cooking your jumbo shells, be sure to follow the package instructions closely. You want them al dente, as they’ll continue cooking in the oven. Overcooked shells can get mushy and fall apart!
Pack the Filling Generously: Don’t be shy when filling those shells! The more filling, the better. Just make sure they’re packed nicely, so every bite is bursting with flavor.
Add Extra Cheese on Top: If you love cheese as much as I do, sprinkle some extra mozzarella or Parmesan on top before baking. It creates a deliciously cheesy crust that’s simply irresistible!
Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick, or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors beautifully!
Let Them Rest: After taking the dish out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve without falling apart.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating the most delicious, mouthwatering seafood stuffed shells that will wow your family and friends. Enjoy the cooking adventure!

Variations of Seafood Stuffed Shells

If you’re like me, you love to get creative in the kitchen! These seafood stuffed shells are incredibly versatile, and you can mix things up to suit your taste or occasion. Here are some fun ideas to switch it up:

Different Seafood: Try using lobster or scallops instead of shrimp and crab for a luxe twist. You could even combine different types of seafood for a delightful medley!
Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, substitute the seafood with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and artichoke hearts. Add some ricotta and feta for that creamy texture—yum!
Spicy Kick: Want to spice things up? Add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the seafood mixture. It’ll give your stuffed shells a nice little heat that’s so good!
Herb Infusion: Switch up the herbs! Instead of parsley, try fresh basil or dill for a different flavor profile. You can even add a bit of lemon zest for brightness.
Cheesy Goodness: Mix in different cheeses like Gouda or feta with the ricotta for a unique flavor. Or top with a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for that extra cheesy goodness!
Marinara Variations: Instead of classic marinara, why not use a creamy alfredo sauce or a homemade pesto? Each will lend a different vibe to the dish and keep things exciting!

Feel free to play around with these variations and make this dish your own! Each time you make seafood stuffed shells, you can create a whole new experience, making it a dish that never gets old.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made these amazing seafood stuffed shells and have some leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store them properly so you can enjoy that cheesy, seafood goodness later on.

First things first, let the stuffed shells cool down to room temperature before you store them. This helps prevent condensation and keeps them from getting soggy. Then, transfer them to an airtight container. If you want to keep them fresh for a bit longer, you can also wrap them tightly with plastic wrap before sealing the container.

These stuffed shells will stay good in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure they’re stored properly! If you want to keep them for a longer time, you can freeze them. I like to freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag once they’re solid. This way, they won’t stick together, and you can pull out just what you need!

When it’s time to reheat, you’ve got a couple of options. For the best results, I recommend using the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C), place your stuffed shells in a baking dish, and cover with foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re heated through. If you want a bubbly top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of cooking!

If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Just place the stuffed shells on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Keep an eye on them to avoid overheating, as they can dry out quickly!

There you go! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your delicious seafood stuffed shells again and again. Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values for each serving of these scrumptious seafood stuffed shells. Keep in mind, these values are based on the ingredients used and can vary depending on what you choose:

Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells
Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 20g

These shells pack a punch with all that creamy seafood and cheesy goodness! It’s a hearty meal that will keep you satisfied. Just remember to enjoy in moderation, and you’ll be all set for a deliciously indulgent dinner. Happy eating!

FAQ About Seafood Stuffed Shells

Got questions about making these delicious seafood stuffed shells? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my answers to help you out.

Can I use frozen seafood?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the seafood completely before using it in the recipe. Frozen shrimp and crab can work just as well as fresh, but fresh definitely gives you that extra flavor boost!

What if I don’t have jumbo shells?
No problem! You can use any large pasta, like manicotti or even cannelloni. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since different shapes may require different cooking methods.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just cover them tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they’re cold from the fridge.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
The oven is my top choice for reheating! It keeps the shells nice and crispy. Just cover them with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes. If you’re in a pinch, the microwave works too—just remember to cover them to retain moisture!

Can I make these seafood stuffed shells spicy?
Definitely! If you like a little heat, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the seafood mixture. It’ll give your stuffed shells a delightful kick!

What other fillings can I use?
Feel free to get creative! You can swap out the seafood for sautéed vegetables, like spinach, mushrooms, or even some roasted red peppers for a delicious vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless!

How can I make these shells gluten-free?
Look for gluten-free pasta shells at your local grocery store. There are some great options out there, and they’ll work just as well in this recipe!

Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Yes! Just assemble them without baking and freeze them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen—just add a little extra time to make sure they’re heated through.

I hope these answers help clear up any questions you might have! Now, go ahead and whip up those seafood stuffed shells with confidence. You’re going to love it!

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Sur moi

Bonjour, je m'appelle Julia, je suis le cœur de Vihaad Recettes et une passionnée de bonne cuisine. Mon amour pour la cuisine a commencé dans mon enfance, inspirée par les délicieux repas de ma grand-mère. Aujourd'hui, je partage des recettes savoureuses qui rassemblent les gens à travers le plaisir de manger ensemble.