Rich, comforting, and elegant, these Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are packed with tender shrimp, sweet crab, creamy ricotta, and herbs—all nestled in jumbo pasta shells and smothered in a luscious garlic parmesan sauce. This baked seafood casserole is the perfect centerpiece for a holiday dinner or a cozy night in.
For the Filling:
20 jumbo pasta shells
1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
1 cup lump crab meat (or imitation crab)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups milk
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
Preheat Oven & Cook Pasta:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil jumbo shells in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
Make the Filling:
In a bowl, combine shrimp, crab, ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and well-blended.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened.
Stir in parmesan, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Remove from heat.
Assemble:
Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a greased baking dish.
Stuff each shell with the seafood mixture and place in the dish. Pour remaining sauce evenly over the top.
Optional: sprinkle extra mozzarella or parmesan on top for a golden finish.
Bake:
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Use a piping bag for easy stuffing.
This dish can be made a day ahead and baked just before serving.
Pairs well with garlic bread and a crisp green salad.
Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/seafood-stuffed-shells/