Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’re in for a treat with these Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce! This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines the elegance of seafood with the comforting familiarity of pasta. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.

Imagine sinking your fork into perfectly stuffed jumbo shells filled with luscious lobster and crab, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s an indulgent meal that balances sophistication and comfort, making it perfect for any occasion. So, let’s get cooking and create something memorable together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy evenings when you still want something special.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the delicious flavors of seafood tucked inside pasta.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of lobster, crab, cheese, and cream creates a decadent experience that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a stunning dish. Gather them up, and we’ll start our culinary adventure!

For the Seafood Filling:

• 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

For Baking:

• Aluminum foil

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to tweak it based on your preferences or what’s available in your kitchen.

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp or scallops instead of lobster or crab for a different seafood twist.
• Add extra veggies: Spinach or sautéed mushrooms can add some delightful greens to the filling.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or cheddar for added flavor.
• Make it spicy: A pinch of red pepper flakes can give your creamy sauce a nice kick.

How to Make Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Seafood

Start by melting ½ tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Then toss in the lobster and crab meat; cook just until heated through—about 2-3 minutes. This step infuses your seafood with garlicky goodness while keeping it tender. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine your cooked seafood mixture with cream cheese, ½ cup shredded mozzarella, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is smooth and well combined. This filling will be rich and flavorful—definitely worth savoring!

Step 3: Cook the Jumbo Shells

Cook your pasta shells according to package instructions. Once they’re al dente, drain them well and allow to cool slightly before filling. This cooling time makes them easier to handle when stuffing.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet used earlier, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute while stirring constantly; this forms a roux that thickens your sauce beautifully. Gradually whisk in heavy cream until smooth. Finally, stir in grated Parmesan and remaining shredded mozzarella until everything is creamy and smooth—this is where all that cheesy goodness happens!

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of your cheesy sauce on the bottom of a baking dish—this prevents sticking while adding flavor right from the start. Carefully stuff each cooled pasta shell with your seafood filling before placing them snugly in the baking dish. Pour any leftover cheese sauce evenly over those stuffed shells; they deserve all that creamy goodness!

Step 6: Bake

Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 20 minutes. After this time, remove the foil so you can allow those tops to get bubbly and golden brown during an additional 10 minutes of baking.

Step 7: Serve

Once baked to perfection, let cool slightly before serving. Feel free to garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired—and then dig in! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

Creating the perfect seafood stuffed jumbo shells is easier than you might think! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish comes out delicious every time.

• Use fresh seafood: Fresh lobster and crab meat will elevate your dish’s flavor. If fresh isn’t available, high-quality frozen options can work well too, just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

• Avoid overcooking the pasta shells: Slightly undercooked shells will hold their shape better when baked and provide a lovely bite. Remember, they will continue cooking in the oven!

• Customize the cheese blend: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or fontina for a unique flavor twist. This can enhance the creaminess and richness of your sauce.

• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare the filling and sauce a day in advance. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve, making it a convenient option for entertaining.

• Experiment with herbs: Fresh herbs like dill or chives added to the seafood filling can bring a delightful freshness to the dish. They complement the rich flavors beautifully.

How to Serve Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

Presentation can make all the difference when serving this elegant dish! Consider these ideas to enhance your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.

• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their shells, adding a zesty flavor that complements the seafood beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce. Its crunchy exterior contrasts wonderfully with the softness of the stuffed shells.

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to this rich pasta dish.

• Roasted Asparagus: The slight bitterness of roasted asparagus pairs nicely with the creamy flavors of the stuffed shells. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt before roasting for added flavor.

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color to your plate while providing a nutritious side that complements the dish without overpowering it.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce will not only taste fabulous but look stunning on any dinner table! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store and manage any leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, assemble the dish but do not bake it.
• Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• For refrigerated shells, cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• For frozen shells, bake covered for about 35-40 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use other seafood in these Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match seafood based on your preference. Shrimp, scallops, or even a seafood medley can work beautifully in this dish.

How can I make the Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your pasta shells are labeled as gluten-free.

Can I prepare the Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the stuffed shells up to a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them.

What should I serve with Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce?

A fresh garden salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with these stuffed shells. They help balance out the richness of the creamy cheese sauce!

How long does it take to cook Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce?

The total time from prep to table is approximately one hour, including both preparation and baking time.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make these Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce as I am! This dish is not only indulgent but also brings a touch of elegance that’s perfect for any occasion or family gathering. Enjoy each delightful bite filled with seafood goodness enveloped in creamy sauce. Happy cooking!