Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, these Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce are just what you need. This recipe brings together the delightful flavors of lobster and crab, enveloped in tender pasta shells and topped with a dreamy cheese sauce. It’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special family gatherings where you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.

What makes this dish even more special is its comforting nature and elegant presentation. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply indulging in a cozy meal at home, these stuffed shells will surely steal the show!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness and succulent seafood flavors.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble the shells ahead of time and bake them when you’re ready to serve, making meal prep a breeze!
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful layers of creamy sauce and stuffed shells make it perfect for special occasions.
• Deliciously Indulgent: Each bite is rich and satisfying, leaving everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about this recipe? It uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce:

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, allowing you to customize it to your taste or what you have on hand! Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: If seafood isn’t your thing, try using cooked chicken or sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian twist.
• Add some spice: For those who like a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for added heat.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it lighter: Use low-fat cream cheese and half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.

How to Make Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Seafood

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt ½ tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute until fragrant. Then add your lobster and crab meat—cook just long enough (about 2-3 minutes) for it to warm through. This step infuses your seafood with garlicky goodness!

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine your cooked seafood with cream cheese, ½ cup of shredded mozzarella, salt, and pepper. Mixing until smooth ensures every shell is filled with that rich flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Jumbo Shells

Prepare your pasta shells according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain them well and allow them to cool slightly before filling. This cooling step makes handling them much easier!

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In your skillet (no need to wash it), melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for one minute while stirring constantly—this forms a roux that thickens our sauce. Gradually whisk in heavy cream until smooth before adding grated Parmesan and the remaining shredded mozzarella. Cook until it’s creamy; trust me—you’ll want to lick that spoon!

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of that luscious cheese sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Now comes the fun part—stuff each cooled pasta shell with your seafood filling and place them snugly in the dish. Pour any leftover sauce evenly over those beauties!

Step 6: Bake

Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 20 minutes. After that time’s up, remove the foil and let it bake for another 10 minutes until bubbling and golden on top—this ensures your shells get that lovely crispy finish.

Step 7: Serve

Let those delicious stuffed shells cool slightly before serving—this helps keep everything intact when plating! Feel free to garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if you like. Then dig in while they’re warm; I promise they won’t last long!

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

Creating the perfect seafood stuffed jumbo shells is all about attention to detail and a bit of love. Here are some pro tips to help you nail this dish!

• Use Fresh Seafood: Fresh lobster and crab will elevate your dish’s flavor and texture. If fresh isn’t available, opt for high-quality frozen options to maintain taste.

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the jumbo shells just until al dente since they will continue cooking in the oven. This prevents them from becoming mushy and falling apart when you stuff them.

• Cool the Filling: Allow the seafood filling to cool slightly before stuffing it into the shells. This makes handling easier and prevents the pasta from getting too soft.

• Layering is Key: Spreading a layer of cheese sauce at the bottom of your baking dish helps prevent sticking and ensures every bite has that creamy goodness.

• Experiment with Cheeses: While Parmesan and mozzarella are great, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or fontina for a unique flavor twist!

How to Serve Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

Presenting your seafood stuffed jumbo shells can be just as delightful as making them! Here are some ideas to serve this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil over the top for a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of your dish.

• Lemon Zest: A light dusting of lemon zest adds brightness and balances the creaminess, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is a classic pairing that’s perfect for soaking up any extra cheese sauce left on your plate. The buttery flavor complements the seafood perfectly!

• Caesar Salad: A refreshing Caesar salad provides a nice crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the stuffed shells while adding a satisfying bite.

• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil brings a touch of elegance to your meal, plus its vibrant green color looks lovely against the creamy shells.

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables offers both nutrition and color to your plate, balancing out this indulgent dish nicely.

Enjoy serving these delicious seafood stuffed jumbo shells at your next gathering or special dinner!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce recipe is perfect for meal prepping or making ahead of time. You can prepare it in advance, store it, and easily reheat it when you’re ready to indulge.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Prepare the dish as directed but do not bake it.
• Cover tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for the best flavor.

Reheating

• If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake covered with foil for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
• For a bubbly top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

FAQs

Have questions about this delightful dish? Here are some answers!

Can I use different seafood in the Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match seafood like shrimp, scallops, or even a combination of your favorites. Just ensure you keep the same overall quantity.

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

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative and ensure your pasta shells are certified gluten-free.

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

The total time is about one hour, which includes 20 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes of cooking time. It’s well worth the wait!

Can I bake Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and keep it covered in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce as much as I do! This dish brings together comforting flavors and elegant presentation, making it perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special gathering. Don’t hesitate to share your experience; I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!

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