Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Recipe Introduction

Ever have one of those days? You know, when only ultimate comfort food will do? This Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe is exactly what you need. It's seriously decadent.

Craving Comfort? Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe is Your Answer!

Honestly, who can resist a cheesy, creamy pasta dish loaded with seafood? It's a bowl full of happiness. This dish just screams indulgence.

Brief Overview: Italian American Classic

The Seafood Stuffed Shells are based on a classic Italian American tradition. It combines the comforting nature of stuffed pasta with the richness of the sea.

This recipe is a medium difficulty. You will need about an hour and fifteen minutes to make. The yield is about six to eight servings.

A perfect dish for a family gathering.

Main Benefits: Seafood Dinner Bliss

This Seafood Dinner is packed with protein. This recipe highlights the rich flavour of crab and shrimp. It's perfect for a special occasion, a romantic date night, or a fancy Sunday dinner.

This Jumbo Stuffed Shells with Seafood recipe is special because it's totally customisable. You can use any seafood you love.

I made it with salmon, shrimp, and cod last time, was amazing.

Ready to dive in? Let's gather the ingredients for this Italian Seafood Shells Recipe . We'll need pasta shells, seafood, ricotta, and a few other bits and bobs.

Let's Get This Shell abration Started: Ingredients & Equipment

So, you're ready to tackle my killer Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe ? Ace! First, let's raid the cupboards and get our ducks in a row.

No need to panic; it’s easier than spotting a black cab in London.

Main Ingredients for This Seafood Pasta Delight

Here's the lowdown on what you'll need. Don't skimp on quality; it makes all the difference!.

• Jumbo Pasta Shells: 1 pound (454g). Seriously, go jumbo! Anything smaller just won't cut it.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons . For stopping the pasta from sticking, yeah?
• Salt: 1 teaspoon . To season the pasta water like a pro.
• Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons (57g). The base for our lush cream sauce.
• All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup (30g). To thicken that sauce beautifully.
• Whole Milk: 3 cups (710ml). Makes the sauce rich and dreamy.
• Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup (120ml). 'Cause why not? We're going all out!
• Dry White Wine: 1/4 cup (60ml). Optional, but adds a touch of class. Chardonay works well.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup (50g) grated, plus extra for topping.
• Cooked Shrimp: 1 pound (454g), peeled, deveined, and chopped. Quality shrimp is essential!.
• Cooked Crabmeat: 1 pound (454g), picked through for shells. Or use a Seafood Mix like crab and shrimp stuffed shells. Fresh is best, darling!
• Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces (425g). The heart of our filling.
• Large Egg: 1 , lightly beaten. Binds it all together.
• Fresh Parsley & Basil: 1/4 cup (6g) each, chopped. Freshness is key!
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. 'Cause garlic makes everything better.
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional). For a little kick in your Jumbo Stuffed Shells with Seafood.
• Salt & Black Pepper: To taste. Season like you mean it!.

Spice It Up: Seasoning Notes

Forget bland! These essential combos will make your Seafood Dinner sing.

• Nutmeg in the cream sauce: A whisper, just a pinch.
• Red pepper flakes: Optional, but add such a tasty zing.
• Fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and basil are non-negotiable.
• No white wine?: Sub in chicken broth for a savoury vibe.

Honestly, the better the ingredients, the tastier your Seafood Stuffed Shells will be. Trust me on this one.

Gear Up: Equipment Needed

Right, here’s what you'll need from the kitchen drawers. Don't fret, nothing too fancy.

• Large Pot: For boiling pasta. Obvs.
• Colander: For draining said pasta. Double obvs.
• Large Skillet or Saucepan: For whipping up that cream sauce.
• Mixing Bowls: Various sizes. For the filling, the sauce... you get the gist.
• 9x13 inch Baking Dish: To bake these beautiful babies to golden perfection.

That’s it! No need for a KitchenAid or a Thermomix. Just good old-fashioned elbow grease. Now you're armed and ready to make the best Italian Seafood Shells Recipe .

Alright, let's chat about the heart and soul of our Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe : the cooking method! Honestly, the technique makes all the difference between a so-so supper and a proper showstopper.

Nailing Your Prep Steps

Think of this as your culinary staging area. First, essential mise en place . This means getting all your ingredients prepped: chop the seafood, measure out your spices, and have everything within arm's reach.

No one wants to be caught short halfway through, right?

Next, time saving organization tips . I like to cook my pasta while prepping the sauce. This cuts down on idle waiting time.

Then get your oven on early so it's ready to rock and roll. I tend to also drain and prep all my Seafood before hand.

Finally, safety reminders . We're dealing with hot pans and boiling water here. Don't be a hero! Use oven gloves and watch the steam.

The step-by-step, Easy Peasy Process

1. Cook the Pasta : Cook the jumbo shells until al dente – about 10- 12 minutes . We want them firm, not mush.
2. Whip Up the Cream Sauce : Melt butter, then whisk in flour. Cook for 1 minute to make a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and cream until thickened. Season.
3. Make the Seafood Filling : Combine cooked seafood, ricotta, herbs, and cheese. Gently mix, don't overwork it.
4. Stuff Those Shells : Preheat your oven to 375° F ( 190° C) . Spoon the mixture into each shell.
5. Bake It, Baby : Pour the sauce over the shells and sprinkle with more cheese. Bake for 35- 40 minutes , until bubbly and golden.

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells: Pro Tips From Experience

Honestly, I've made my share of mistakes, so you don't have to! Here is a pro tip. Don't try to make it all in one day.

make-ahead options are your friend!. Prepare the filling the day before and chill it in the fridge. This makes stuffing the shells on cooking day a breeze!

Also, don't overcook the pasta . Soggy shells are a disaster. Al dente is the way to go. It's like the goldilocks zone.

Lastly, using quality ingredients will shine. Shellfish like crab and shrimp stuffed shells are always a decadent dish.

Recipe Notes for the Best Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe

Honestly, sometimes the little things make a huge difference. You know? I've tweaked this Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe over the years, and these notes are the result of all my, ahem , learning experiences in the kitchen! Let's dive in to make sure your Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe becomes a family favourite.

Ace Serving Ideas for Your Seafood Stuffed Shells

Presentation is key! Think about dolloping a spoonful of extra cream sauce over your Seafood Pasta . A sprinkle of fresh parsley and a lemon wedge? Bang on! To complement this Seafood Dinner , try a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.

And a chilled glass of white wine never hurts. I personally love a Pinot Grigio.

Storage Tips to Keep Your Stuffed Shells Fresh

Got leftovers? Don't bin them! These Jumbo Stuffed Shells with Seafood are great the next day. For refrigeration, pop them in an airtight container and they'll be good for up to 3 days .

Want to freeze them? Wrap them tightly in foil, then put them in a freezer bag. They'll keep for up to 2 months .

Reheat in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through and bubbly.

Adaptations and Swaps

Want to shake things up a bit? You can make this Creamy Baked Seafood Pasta gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta shells.

And for a veggie twist, swap out the seafood for roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Seasonal ingredients are always a winner! Use what's fresh and available.

Nutrition Lowdown

Let's be real: this Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Shells dish is pure comfort food, it's not exactly a kale smoothie.

But you're getting a good dose of protein from the seafood and calcium from the cheese. Just remember everything in moderation.

Plus, seafood is good for your brain, apparently!

There you have it! Remember, cooking is all about having fun and experimenting. Don't be afraid to put your own spin on this Italian Seafood Shells Recipe and make it your own.

Now get in the kitchen and create some magic, it's easier than you think to get Easy Seafood Stuffed Shells perfect! Happy cooking, you lovely lot!.