Name: Easy Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 12 jumbo pasta shells; 1 cup fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup lump crab meat; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup fresh spinach (or 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained); 1/4 cup sour cream; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce

Indulgent, creamy, and bursting with seafood goodness, Easy Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are a delightful way to impress dinner guests or simply treat yourself on a cozy night in. Imagine sinking your fork into perfectly cooked pasta filled with a rich blend of succulent shrimp and tender crab, all enveloped in a velvety sauce that clings to every shell. The aromas wafting from the oven will make your mouth water and your heart sing. For more inspiration, check out this lunch recipes recipe.

I remember the first time I made these shells for my family; it was a chilly Sunday evening. My kids couldn’t believe their eyes when they saw their plates filled with these cheesy wonders. “Are we at a restaurant?” they asked, eyes wide with excitement. With every bite, laughter filled our kitchen, making it an unforgettable memory worth repeating time and again.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Easy Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells dish offers effortless preparation that even novice cooks can master
Bursting with flavors, the combination of seafood and cheese creates a heavenly taste experience
Visually stunning, these stuffed shells add elegance to any meal
Perfect for special occasions or a comforting weeknight dinner, they’re versatile enough to please everyone

One time, my friend took her first bite and declared it was “love at first taste.” It’s moments like these that make cooking so rewarding.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Jumbo Pasta Shells: Choose larger shells to hold all the scrumptious filling; al dente is best for structure.
Fresh Shrimp: Buy peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience; they add sweetness and texture.
Crab Meat: Opt for lump crab meat if possible; it elevates the flavor profile significantly.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese provides that luscious creaminess that keeps you coming back for more.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds depth; avoid pre-grated varieties for optimal flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings aromatic depth; sautéing releases its irresistible scent.
Spinach: Fresh or frozen spinach adds color and nutrition; just be sure to drain any excess moisture if using frozen.
Sour Cream: Adds tanginess while enhancing the creamy texture of the filling.
Seasonings (Salt & Pepper): Essential for balancing flavors; season generously but taste along the way.
Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite variety; this will be the perfect base layer in your baking dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Cook the Pasta Shells: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Sauté Shrimp and Spinach: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté fresh minced garlic until fragrant before adding shrimp and spinach until shrimp turns pink and opaque.

Create the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine sautéed shrimp mixture with cream cheese, crab meat, sour cream, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and half of the parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly until creamy.

Stuff the Shells: Use a spoon or piping bag to fill each shell generously with the seafood mixture. Arrange them snugly in a prepared baking dish over marinara sauce.

Add Final Touches: Cover stuffed shells with remaining marinara sauce before sprinkling reserved parmesan cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

With each step of this recipe unfolding beautifully in your kitchen, you’ll find yourself eager to dig into your creation as soon as it emerges from the oven. Not only do these Easy Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells look impressive on any table setting but they also offer flavors that leave everyone wanting more!

You Must Know

Easy Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are a delightful blend of flavors and textures
These shells are not only visually appealing but also easy to customize, making dinner both fun and exciting
Plus, the creamy filling creates a comforting dish that everyone will adore

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta shells until al dente, then prepare your creamy filling while they cool. This sequence ensures everything comes together smoothly without overcooking any component.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out seafood for chicken or veggies if desired. Adding different herbs or spices can elevate the flavor profile and make it uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to preserve creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve perfect seafood stuffed shells, avoid overfilling them; a little goes a long way with creamy fillings
Ensure your pasta is al dente to prevent mushiness when baking
Use fresh herbs for added brightness and flavor enhancement that frozen options cannot match

Sharing this recipe reminds me of my sister’s dinner party when her guests devoured these shells in minutes—who knew I was the family’s secret seafood whisperer?

FAQ

Can I use frozen seafood for Easy Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells?

Yes, frozen seafood works well but ensure it’s fully thawed before using it.

What type of cheese is best for stuffing?

Ricotta and cream cheese mixed with mozzarella create a deliciously creamy filling.

How long does it take to bake stuffed shells?

Bake Easy Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells for about 25-30 minutes at 350°F until bubbly and golden on top.