Name: Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz lobster meat; 8 oz lump crab meat; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided into 2 portions of ½ cup each); 1 ½ tablespoons butter (divided); 8 oz cream cheese; ½ cup heavy whipping cream; ¾ cup Parmesan Reggiano cheese, grated; Aluminum foil

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Introduction

These Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells combine tender lobster and crab meat with a rich cheese sauce for an indulgent pasta dish. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself to a decadent meal.

The image shows a close-up of stuffed pasta shells arranged in a white bowl. Each shell is filled with a creamy white cheese mixture topped with small cooked shrimp that are pink-orange in color. The filling has a smooth and slightly bubbly texture with hints of melted cheese and finely chopped herbs scattered on top. The shells are light yellow with a ridged texture on the outside, holding the filling firmly. Small black pepper flakes and green herbs are sprinkled over the shells, adding contrast and detail. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and the photo is brightly lit, highlighting the creamy and rich textures of the pasta dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz lobster meat
8 oz lump crab meat
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided into 2 portions of ½ cup each)
1 ½ tablespoons butter (divided)
8 oz cream cheese
½ cup heavy whipping cream
¾ cup Parmesan Reggiano cheese, grated
Aluminum foil (for baking)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt ½ tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the lobster and crab meat, cooking for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cooked seafood with the cream cheese, ½ cup shredded mozzarella, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
Step 3: Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and let them cool slightly before filling with the seafood mixture.
Step 4: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream. Stir in the grated Parmesan and remaining mozzarella until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the cheese sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Stuff the cooled pasta shells with the seafood filling and arrange them in the dish. Pour the remaining cheese sauce over the shells.
Step 6: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.
Step 7: Let the dish cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor, but canned crab can be a convenient substitute.
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add a bright finish when sprinkled on top before serving.
For extra richness, stir a little lemon zest into the seafood filling to enhance the flavors.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain a creamy texture.

How to Serve

The dish shows large white pasta shells filled with a creamy white sauce layered with small orange shrimp and light melted cheese on top. The shells have a ridged texture and are arranged closely in a white bowl. The filling inside the shells is speckled with small green herb pieces and black pepper flakes, adding contrast to the smooth sauce. The shrimp on each shell are slightly shiny with a cooked look, and the cheese appears slightly browned in spots, giving a baked texture. The background features a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

What other seafood can I use in this recipe?

Feel free to substitute or add other seafood such as shrimp, scallops, or crab legs. Just adjust cooking times to avoid overcooking delicate seafood.