Seafood Stuffed Shells: A Delicious Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Seafood stuffed shells are a delightful culinary creation that brings the ocean’s flavors right to your dinner table. As a lover of both seafood and pasta, I find that this dish perfectly marries the two, creating a comforting yet elegant meal that is sure to impress. The origins of stuffed pasta can be traced back to Italy, where the tradition of filling pasta with various ingredients has been cherished for centuries. Seafood stuffed shells, in particular, have become a beloved dish in coastal regions, where fresh seafood is abundant.

What makes seafood stuffed shells so irresistible is their rich, creamy filling, often made with a blend of succulent shrimp, tender crab meat, and a hint of cheese, all enveloped in a perfectly cooked pasta shell. The combination of flavors and textures is simply divine, making each bite a delightful experience. Not only are they delicious, but seafood stuffed shells are also incredibly convenient to prepare, making them a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Join me as we dive into this recipe that celebrates the best of both worlds!

Ingredients:

• 20 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, shredded
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Preparing the Pasta Shells

1. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, carefully add the pasta shells. Cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
2. Once cooked, drain the shells in a colander and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This will also make them easier to handle later on.
3. Spread the shells out on a clean kitchen towel or a baking sheet to cool completely. This will prevent them from sticking together.

Preparing the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. This will create a creamy base for your filling.
2. Add the chopped shrimp and crab meat to the cheese mixture. Make sure to use fresh seafood for the best flavor, but if you’re using frozen, ensure it’s fully thawed and drained.
3. Next, add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. If you like a little heat, feel free to add the red pepper flakes at this stage. Mix everything together until well combined.
4. Take a taste of the filling and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You want it to be flavorful since it will be the star of the dish!

Assembling the Stuffed Shells

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your stuffed shells cook evenly and get that lovely golden top.
2. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, pour a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. This will prevent the shells from sticking and add flavor.
3. Now, take a cooled pasta shell and carefully spoon a generous amount of the seafood filling into each shell. Don’t be shy; you want them to be filled to the brim!
4. Place the filled shells seam-side up in the baking dish. Repeat this process until all the shells are filled and arranged in the dish.
5. Once all the shells are in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Make sure to cover all the shells to keep them moist while baking.
6. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the sauce. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes.

Baking the Stuffed Shells

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help the shells cook through without drying out.
2. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt.
3. After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
4. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. This will make it easier to serve and allow the filling to set slightly.

Serving the Seafood Stuffed Shells

1. Using a large spoon or spatula, carefully serve the stuffed shells onto plates. Make sure to scoop up some of that delicious marinara sauce from the bottom of the dish!
2. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or a sprinkle of lemon zest

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful journey through the world of Seafood Stuffed Shells, I can confidently say that this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to impress their family or guests with a dish that is both elegant and comforting. The combination of tender pasta shells filled with a rich seafood medley, creamy cheese, and a hint of herbs creates a symphony of flavors that is simply irresistible. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these stuffed shells with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine to elevate your dining experience. You can also experiment with variations by adding different seafood like crab or shrimp, or even incorporating some spinach or artichokes into the filling for an extra layer of flavor. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste preferences. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making these Seafood Stuffed Shells in your own kitchen. I promise you won’t be disappointed! And once you do, I would love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together! Happy cooking!

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