Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

This Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it the perfect dish for special occasions or cozy family dinners. The jumbo pasta shells are generously filled with a rich seafood mixture of lobster and crab, complemented by a creamy cheese sauce that elevates every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or looking to impress guests, this dish offers a touch of elegance while remaining comforting and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The mix of lobster and crab creates a luxurious filling that delights the taste buds.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you can whip up this impressive dish without much fuss.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or special celebrations, it’s sure to please everyone.
• Creamy Goodness: The rich cheese sauce adds an irresistible creaminess to each bite.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with seafood goodness, it’s a fun way to introduce your family to new flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce, having the right tools will make the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing garlic and cooking the seafood filling evenly.
• Baking dish: Keeps your stuffed shells together while they bake, ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients smoothly when preparing the seafood filling.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A large pot ensures that the pasta can cook evenly without sticking together.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Seafood Filling:

• 8 oz lobster meat
• 8 oz lump crab meat
• 3 cloves garlic, 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

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 butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add lobster and crab meat; cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked seafood, cream cheese, ½ cup shredded mozzarella, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Cook the Jumbo Shells

Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain them well and allow them to cool slightly before filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet used earlier, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute while stirring constantly to form a roux. Gradually whisk in heavy cream until smooth. Stir in grated Parmesan and remaining ½ cup shredded mozzarella. Cook until sauce is creamy.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of cheese sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Stuff each cooled pasta shell with the seafood filling and place them in the baking dish. Pour the remaining cheese sauce evenly over all stuffed shells.

Step 6: Bake

Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 20 minutes. After that time, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until top is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Serve

Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

Serving seafood stuffed jumbo shells with creamy cheese sauce can elevate your dining experience. This dish is not only visually appealing but also offers a delightful blend of flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side to add a zesty kick when squeezed over the shells.

Accompanying Sauces

• Marinara Sauce: A rich marinara can complement the creamy sauce, adding a tangy contrast.
• Garlic Butter Sauce: Drizzle warm garlic butter over the shells for added richness and flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Offer slices of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce, enhancing the overall experience.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the dish.

How to Perfect Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

Perfecting this dish ensures every bite is as delicious as possible. Here are some tips to achieve that ideal seafood stuffed shell experience.

• Bold Seasoning: Season the seafood filling generously with salt and pepper to bring out its natural flavors.
• Smooth Filling: Blend the cream cheese and seafood mixture until smooth for an even texture throughout each shell.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure pasta shells are cooked al dente so they hold their shape while baking.
• Evenly Distribute Sauce: Pour sauce evenly over all stuffed shells, ensuring every piece is coated for maximum flavor.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking time; you want them bubbly but not overcooked to maintain tenderness.

Best Side Dishes for Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

Complementing your seafood stuffed jumbo shells with delicious side dishes enhances the meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing adds a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus brings a bright flavor and vibrant color to your plate.
4. Steamed Broccoli: This nutrient-rich vegetable is an easy side that pairs well without overpowering the main dish.
5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing mix of quinoa, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes provides a healthy grain option.
6. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds crunchiness and balances the richness of the stuffed shells.
7. Tomato Basil Bruschetta: Fresh tomatoes and basil on toasted bread provide a light, flavorful appetizer that complements seafood well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce turn out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to watch for.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and other dairy products are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth filling and sauce without lumps.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Avoid cooking the jumbo shells for too long. They should be al dente since they will continue to cook in the oven.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Always taste your filling and sauce before assembling. A lack of seasoning can make the dish bland. Adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
• Skipping the Foil Step: Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking helps retain moisture. Skipping this step may lead to dry shells.
• Rushing Cooling Time: Letting the dish cool slightly before serving allows flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve without falling apart.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep for about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

• You can freeze these shells before or after baking.
• Use an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for best results.
• They will last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes, then uncover for another 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce.

How can I customize Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce?

You can add different seafood like shrimp or scallops, or even include vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

What sauces go well with Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells?

While the creamy cheese sauce enhances these shells, you could also try a light tomato sauce or a lemon butter sauce for a different twist.

Can I make Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

A fresh green salad or garlic bread would complement your meal beautifully, balancing the richness of the stuffed shells.

Is this recipe suitable for gatherings?

Absolutely! These seafood stuffed shells are perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings, making it easy to impress your guests.

Final Thoughts

Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce is a delightful dish that combines elegance and comfort. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners. Feel free to customize it based on your preferences, using different seafood or adding veggies. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try!