Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe

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When I think of comfort food with an elegant twist, my mind always goes to these Seafood Stuffed Shells. They strike that perfect balance between creamy indulgence and coastal freshness. The first time I served this dish at a family dinner, it disappeared from the table faster than I could pour the wine. There’s something special about the mix of succulent seafood, rich ricotta, and a golden parmesan crust that feels like a warm embrace in every bite.

I love making this recipe because it allows for creativity without sacrificing ease. You can play with your seafood mix, swap in your favorite herbs, or double the batch for entertaining. The creamy béchamel sauce with just a hint of garlic envelops each shell, making every forkful luxurious. I often find myself sneaking a shell or two straight from the baking dish.

It also makes a fantastic make-ahead meal. I’ve prepped these shells a day before hosting a gathering, and all I had to do was bake them just before guests arrived. The compliments kept coming, and nobody guessed I wasn’t stuck in the kitchen for hours. If you’re looking to impress with minimal stress, this one’s for you.

Why You’ll Love This Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe

This dish isn’t just another pasta bake. It combines the sweet, briny flavor of seafood with the comforting richness of cheese and cream. The shells cradle the filling perfectly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. The golden breadcrumb topping adds that irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior. It’s a recipe that turns an ordinary evening into something worth remembering.

If you like this dish, you might also love Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for another creamy, crowd-pleasing dinner idea or Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach for a similar seafood-cheese combo that never fails to satisfy. And if you’re feeling indulgent, don’t miss Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta — a rich, flavorful cousin to this recipe that hits all the right notes.

How to Make the Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
Start by boiling large pasta shells until just al dente. They will finish cooking in the oven, so don’t overdo it. Drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Seafood Filling
In a large bowl, mix together chopped shrimp, lump crab meat, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, lemon zest, fresh parsley, and a pinch of Old Bay seasoning. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
Prepare a white béchamel sauce by melting butter in a saucepan, whisking in flour, and slowly adding milk while stirring. Cook until thickened, then add garlic, a touch of nutmeg, and more parmesan. Let it simmer gently.

Step 4: Assemble the Shells
Pour a layer of the sauce into a baking dish. Stuff each pasta shell generously with the seafood mixture and nestle them into the saucy base. Top with remaining sauce and a generous sprinkle of breadcrumbs and parmesan.

Step 5: Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re not a fan of crab, swap it with cooked scallops or even canned tuna for a more economical twist. You can use cottage cheese in place of ricotta for a lighter filling or add sautéed spinach or kale to sneak in some greens. Love spice? Add a dash of cayenne or a spoonful of diced jalapeños to the filling. For a dairy-free option, use plant-based cheeses and a non-dairy milk for the sauce—oat milk works well for creaminess without overpowering the seafood flavor.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These Seafood Stuffed Shells deserve to be the star of the meal, so I like to keep the sides light and complementary. A crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette adds freshness to contrast the rich shells. Steamed asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts work wonderfully for a touch of green. For drinks, I suggest a chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc—something with a bright acidity that cuts through the creaminess beautifully.

For bread lovers, a loaf of warm crusty baguette or garlic bread is always welcome. It’s perfect for sopping up that delicious sauce at the bottom of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until heated through. For a quicker option, individual portions can be microwaved in a covered dish on medium power.

If you want to freeze them, assemble the stuffed shells in a freezer-safe baking dish without baking. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as instructed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

What kind of seafood works best?

A mix of shrimp and crab is ideal, but scallops, lobster, or even firm white fish can be used.

How can I make this spicy?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or mix in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce with the filling.

Can I skip the cheese?

You can reduce the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives, but cheese is a key element in both texture and flavor for this dish.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you enjoyed these creamy, comforting stuffed shells, you’ll definitely want to try a few more recipes from my kitchen. My Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Cream Cheese is a cozy favorite that’s perfect for weeknights. Another one worth trying is the Marry Me Chicken Pasta – loaded with flavor and just as irresistible. And for a veggie-packed dinner with big flavor, don’t miss the Giant Zucchini Parmesan.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Loved this recipe? Don’t forget to pin it to your favorite Pinterest board so you can come back to it anytime. Whether you’re prepping for a special dinner or planning your next cozy night in, this is one dish you’ll want to revisit. Share it with your foodie friends, email it to your family, or post it to your cooking group—spreading the love makes every bite even better.

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