Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

This Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce is the perfect dish for those seeking a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Ideal for special occasions or cozy family dinners, this pasta bake combines tender jumbo shells with a rich seafood filling and a creamy cheese sauce that will impress your guests. Each bite offers a taste of luxury, making it an unforgettable meal for any seafood lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent flavors – The combination of lobster, crab, and cream cheese creates a luxurious filling that elevates this dish.
• Comforting texture – Baked until bubbly, the creamy cheese sauce complements the stuffed shells perfectly, ensuring a satisfying experience.
• Versatile serving options – This dish works wonderfully as a main course or can be served alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Easy preparation – With simple steps and ingredients, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Great for sharing – Perfect for gatherings, this recipe serves six people, making it ideal for family dinners or entertaining friends.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce, having the right tools is essential. Here are some recommended items to help you get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet – Ideal for sautéing garlic and cooking the seafood filling evenly without overcrowding.
• Baking dish – A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and allows for easy serving.
• Mixing bowl – Necessary for combining ingredients smoothly to create the perfect seafood filling.
• Pot for boiling pasta – A large pot allows ample space to cook jumbo shells without sticking together.

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Ingredients

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

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. Add lobster and crab meat; cook 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 and allow to cool slightly before filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet used earlier, melt remaining 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 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 and smooth.

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 the stuffed shells.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that time has passed, remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the 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 is an opportunity to impress your guests with a beautiful presentation. This dish pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors and textures.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the seafood stuffed shells, providing a refreshing contrast.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any extra creamy sauce left on the plate, making every bite delightful.

Serve with Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal roasted vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers add color and nutrition to your meal while complementing the seafood flavors.

Offer Lemon Wedges

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the stuffed shells brightens the dish, enhancing the seafood’s natural flavors.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkling chopped parsley or dill on top not only adds visual appeal but also contributes an aromatic freshness that elevates the dish.

How to Perfect Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

Perfecting Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells involves attention to detail and technique that will elevate your dish. Here are some tips to ensure success:

• Use Fresh Seafood: Using high-quality lobster and crab meat enhances flavor and texture, making your dish stand out.

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the jumbo shells just until al dente. They will continue to cook while baking, ensuring they don’t become mushy.

• Make a Smooth Filling: Blend the seafood filling thoroughly for a creamy consistency that holds together well when stuffed into the shells.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your cheese sauce before pouring it over the shells. Adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.

• Cover While Baking: Covering the dish with aluminum foil during the first part of baking helps retain moisture, resulting in tender shells and a creamy texture.

• Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to cool slightly after baking helps it set up and makes serving easier without falling apart.

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

Pairing side dishes with Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells can enhance your dining experience by adding variety and balance. Here are some great options:

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings crisp romaine lettuce and crunchy croutons tossed in creamy dressing that complements the pasta bake beautifully.

2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a pop of color and nutrients while providing a mild flavor that pairs well with rich seafood.

3. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa cooked with herbs and vegetables makes for a hearty side that adds texture without overpowering the main dish.

4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary or thyme provide a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy pasta.

5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the softness of the stuffed shells.

6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn is an easy summer side that brings sweetness and smokiness to your dinner table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the seafood filling properly can lead to bland flavors. Always taste your filling before stuffing the shells, and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

• Overcooking the pasta shells: Cooking jumbo shells for too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions carefully and slightly undercook them, as they will continue cooking in the oven.

• Not cooling the filling: Stuffing hot filling into pasta can cause it to tear. Allow the seafood filling to cool slightly before using it to fill the shells.

• Inadequate sauce coverage: Skimping on the cheese sauce can result in dry shells. Be generous when pouring sauce over the stuffed shells for a creamy finish.

• Baking without foil initially: Baking uncovered from the start can dry out your dish. Cover with foil for part of the baking process to keep moisture in, then remove it for a golden finish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

• Place cooled stuffed shells in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water in a pan, cover, and warm over low heat until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce.

Can I use different seafood in this recipe?

Yes, you can mix various seafood like shrimp or scallops for unique flavors. Just ensure they’re cooked before adding them to the filling.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce, use gluten-free pasta shells and ensure all sauces and ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What sides go well with this dish?

Pair your seafood stuffed shells with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that balances flavors nicely.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and bake it when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce is an indulgent yet simple dish that impresses at any dinner gathering. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, you’ll find endless ways to customize it by adding different seafood or herbs. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!