Introduction
Creamy seafood stuffed shells combine the comfort of pasta with the sophisticated flavors of the ocean. This dish offers an indulgent experience, making it perfect for special occasions or a satisfying weeknight meal. Each large shell is a pocket of delight, filled with rich seafood and a creamy sauce that resonates with umami notes.
Stuffed with shrimp, scallops, and a luscious blend of cheeses, the shells are bathed in a homemade cream sauce. The balance of flavors and textures in this dish showcases the versatility of seafood while ensuring that every bite is brimming with taste. Don't be surprised if this becomes a family favorite that you'll want to make time and again.
Ingredients
- 20 large pasta shells
These form the base of the dish, providing a sturdy container for the flavorful seafood filling. Their size allows for generous stuffing, ensuring each bite is satisfying. - 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
Shrimp add a sweet, briny flavor and a firm texture to the filling. Being quick-cooking, they blend easily with the creamy base while providing a delightful contrast. - 1 cup scallops, diced
Scallops introduce a slightly richer taste and tender mouthfeel. They are delicate and enhance the seafood profile of the dish, making it more upscale. - 1 cup ricotta cheese
Ricotta contributes creaminess while also adding a mildly sweet flavor that balances the seafood. It helps bind the filling together, ensuring it holds up during cooking. - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Mozzarella offers a melty, gooey texture when baked. Its mild flavor complements the richer ingredients, creating a cohesive taste experience. - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds a savory, umami depth to the filling and the sauce. Its sharpness enhances the flavor of the other cheeses and seafood. - 2 cups heavy cream
Heavy cream creates the luxurious sauce that coats the stuffed shells. It contributes to the overall richness of the dish, making it decadent and satisfying. - 2 tablespoons olive oil
Olive oil is used to sauté the seafood, adding depth of flavor to the filling. It also helps prevent sticking during the cooking process. - 3 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic infuses the dish with aromatic qualities, enhancing the taste of the seafood and cream. Its warmth builds a foundation of flavor beneath the richness. - 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Lemon juice brightens the dish, balancing the creaminess with acidity. This contrast is essential to prevent overwhelming the palate. - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Oregano adds a slight earthiness that complements the seafood. It rounds out the seasoning and gives the dish a comforting, herbal note. - Salt and pepper to taste
These fundamental seasonings enhance all ingredients, ensuring that each element of the dish is well-seasoned and flavorful.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Preheating the oven is essential to ensure even cooking. An adequately preheated oven will help achieve a golden-brown cheese topping, creating a delightful texture contrast with the creamy filling.
Step 2: Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Cooking the shells until al dente allows them to be firm enough to hold their shape during stuffing and baking. If they are overcooked now, they may fall apart when you fill them, causing a potential mess.
Step 3: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Sautéing the garlic in oil releases its natural oils and enhances its flavor, which forms the aromatic base for the seafood filling. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it could lend a bitter taste.
Step 4: Add the diced scallops and chopped shrimp to the skillet; cook for 3-4 minutes until opaque.
Cooking the seafood just until it changes color ensures it remains tender and doesn’t become rubbery. This step infuses the mixture with flavor, enhancing the entire filling.
Step 5: In a bowl, combine the cooked seafood, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Mixing all the filling components creates a well-balanced and harmonious flavor profile. The ricotta’s creaminess coupled with the additional cheeses will bind the seafood in a deliciously rich stuffing.
Step 6: Stuff each pasta shell with the seafood mixture and arrange them in a greased baking dish.
Carefully filling each shell ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Arranging them in a baking dish allows for even heat distribution while baking, ensuring all shells are cooked uniformly.
Step 7: In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warm but not boiling.
Warming the cream before adding it to the shells helps integrate it into the dish without curdling. This step ensures that you achieve a wonderfully smooth and creamy sauce.
Step 8: Pour the warmed cream over the stuffed shells, and sprinkle any remaining mozzarella on top.
Pouring the cream over the shells ensures each one is engulfed in the creamy mixture, creating that decadent texture. The extra mozzarella on top will melt and create a golden crust as it bakes.
Step 9: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes; then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Covering the dish initially helps cook the filling through without burning the top. Removing the foil allows the cheese to brown, creating a deliciously crispy texture contrasting the creaminess.
Step 10: Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Resting the dish allows the flavors to meld and gives the filling time to firm up slightly, making it easier to serve. This is a perfect time to prepare any sides or garnishes.
Flavorful Variations to Try
Exploring different seafood choices can elevate this dish. Instead of shrimp and scallops, consider using crab meat or lobster for a luxurious twist. You might also sprinkle in some fresh herbs like dill or chives for added freshness. Trying out various cheese blends can also enhance the richness and alter the flavor profile, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your taste.
Perfect Pairings for Seafood Stuffed Shells
Pairing your creamy seafood stuffed shells with refreshing sides can elevate the meal experience. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish nicely, helping to cleanse the palate. Additionally, serving crusty garlic bread on the side allows for a delightful contrast in textures while soaking up any leftover creamy sauce.
Tips for Achieving Creamy Perfection
Achieving the perfect creaminess requires attention to detail during preparation. Ensure that the cream is warmed gently to retain its smoothness and prevents curdling. Incorporating just the right balance of seafood and cheeses will also ensure a lush texture. For an even creamier result, consider folding in some mascarpone cheese along with ricotta to create a velvety filling.
FAQs
What to do if the filling is too thick?
If the filling is too thick, you can loosen it by adding a small amount of warm cream or milk. Stir until it's blended smoothly, achieving the creamy texture desired.
How can I scale this recipe for a larger crowd?
To scale the recipe, simply multiply the quantities of each ingredient by the number of servings needed. Ensure you have a large enough baking dish to accommodate the additional stuffed shells.
What if the seafood mixture feels bland?
If the filling tastes bland, add more seasoning, such as salt, pepper, or herbs, and mix well. A touch of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors.
Can I use frozen seafood in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen seafood, but ensure it’s thawed and well-drained before cooking. This will help avoid excess moisture in the filling.
What do I do if the sauce ends up too thin?
If your sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it on low heat for a few additional minutes, allowing some liquid to evaporate and it to reduce.
Are there any alternative cheeses I can use?
Absolutely, you can substitute cheeses like goat cheese or even a vegan cheese for a different flavor or dietary preference, keeping in mind the texture may differ slightly.
How can I avoid overcooking the seafood filling?
To prevent overcooking, monitor the seafood closely while sautéing; cook until just opaque, as baking will finish cooking the seafood without drying it out.
Is it possible to add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, adding sautéed spinach or chopped artichoke hearts can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish without overpowering the seafood.
Conclusion
Creamy seafood stuffed shells are a delightful dish that combines elegance with comfort food. The creamy, flavorful filling enveloped in pasta shells makes it a stand-out option for any table. With the added bonus of customization, each cook can adapt the recipe to their preferences.
As you embark on preparing this dish, allow yourself to experiment with flavors and textures, making it uniquely yours. Enjoy the process and savor this indulgent creation that is sure to impress.
Recipe Card
Delicious Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies for Home Bakers
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, vegetable oil, and eggs.
- Add vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt to the mixture, stirring until combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips gently.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center remains slightly soft.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
