Indulgent Seafood Stuffed Shells: A Comforting Delight
Indulgent Seafood Stuffed Shells are more than just a meal; they’re a cozy hug on a plate. This dish unites jumbo pasta shells with a rich, creamy filling made from succulent seafood, making it perfect for any occasion—from a family dinner to a gathering with friends. The combination of flavors and textures enveloped in a savory Alfredo sauce promises to please every palate, turning an ordinary evening into a memorable feast.
Why We Love This Indulgent Seafood Stuffed Shells: A Comforting Delight Recipe
What draws you to Indulgent Seafood Stuffed Shells is not just how delicious they are, but also their simple elegance. You get to enjoy the beautiful presentation of colossal pasta shells artfully filled with creamy ricotta, shrimp, and spices. This recipe beautifully balances the richness of the seafood and tangy Alfredo sauce, complemented by a fragrant sprinkle of fresh parsley. It’s an indulgent dish that brings warmth to your kitchen and smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging on a quiet evening at home, this dish brings comfort and satisfaction that is hard to resist.
Ingredients about Indulgent Seafood Stuffed Shells: A Comforting Delight
- 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells (Cooked al dente)
- 1 cup Ricotta Cheese (Creamier option)
- 4 ounces Cream Cheese (Can substitute with cream fraiche)
- 1 cup Shrimp (Or substitute with crab)
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning (Adjust according to spice preference)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Use fresh for best flavor)
- 2 cups Alfredo Sauce (Use homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (For a sharper taste use Pecorino Romano)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (For garnish and color)
- 1 cup Extra Alfredo Sauce (For drizzling)
- 1 bowl Green Salad (With light vinaigrette)
How to Make Indulgent Seafood Stuffed Shells: A Comforting Delight Directions
To create these delightful seafood stuffed shells, begin your journey by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While your oven warms up, dedicate some time to cooking your jumbo pasta shells. Allow them to boil in salted water until they’re al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain them well and set them aside so they can cool slightly.
Next, let’s focus on the stuffing. In a bowl, combine your ricotta cheese and cream cheese until they achieve a harmonious blend. This mix will serve as the creamy base for your seafood filling. Finely chop the fresh garlic and add it to the bowl, bringing in that aromatic flavor which elevates the entire dish. In another bowl, toss your shrimp (or crab, depending on your choice) with Old Bay seasoning. This iconic spice blend captures the essence of seafood cooking and will infuse your filling with additional zest. Combine the seasoned shrimp with the creamy cheese mixture, making sure to distribute the seafood evenly throughout.
Now comes the fun part! Take your cooled pasta shells and gently fill each one with heaping spoonfuls of the scrumptious seafood stuffing. After filling all shells, it’s time to layer them in a baking dish. Begin with a sprinkle of Alfredo sauce at the bottom of the dish, which will prevent the shells from sticking. Place each stuffed shell with precision, ensuring they are close but not overcrowded. Once they’re all nestled in the dish, pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the top, covering the shells completely. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously across the surface, giving it an irresistible cheesy crust.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in, and bake it in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes. After that, uncover and allow the top to brown for another 10-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese bubbles slightly and golden edges form. Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few moments. Garnish generously with fresh parsley for that burst of color and freshness on your plate.
How to Serve Indulgent Seafood Stuffed Shells: A Comforting Delight
Serving your Indulgent Seafood Stuffed Shells is part of the joy! Transfer the hot, bubbling dish directly from the oven to the table. To create a delightful dining experience, pair these rich pasta shells with a light green salad drizzled with a simple vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad provides a crisp contrast to the creamy, decadent stuffed shells.
Use a wide serving spoon to carefully dish out the pasta, making sure each portion is adorned with a generous amount of the luscious Alfredo sauce on top. For added flair, consider a sprinkle of extra herbs or a dash of freshly cracked pepper just before serving. This thoughtful presentation will make your meal feel even more special.
Encouraging your guests to savor their meal, you might even suggest they drizzle some extra Alfredo sauce over their portions for an even richer experience. The combination of the warm, creamy filling enveloped by the sauce, the delightful crunch of salad on the side, and the inviting aroma will have everyone asking for seconds!
Expert Tips: Indulgent Seafood Stuffed Shells: A Comforting Delight
Perfect Pasta: Make sure your jumbo pasta shells are cooked to al dente. This prevents them from becoming mushy when baked. A little bite makes all the difference in texture.
Fresh is Best: Always opt for fresh shrimp when possible. If you do go with frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture.
Seasoning Matters: Adjust the Old Bay seasoning based on your taste preferences. Taste your filling before stuffing to ensure it packs enough flavor.
Customize Your Filling: Feel free to mix in other ingredients like diced bell peppers or spinach to enhance the flavor profile and nutrition.
Batch Cooking: These stuffed shells freeze beautifully! Prepare an extra batch to enjoy on a busy weeknight. Just freeze them before baking; when you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding a bit of time to ensure they heat through.
Cheese Variations: If you desire a sharper flavor, substitute some Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a bit more zing.
How to Store Indulgent Seafood Stuffed Shells: A Comforting Delight
After enjoying your delicious seafood stuffed shells, you may have leftovers! To ensure they stay fresh, allow your dish to cool completely. Then, transfer any remaining shells to an airtight container. It’s essential to store them in the refrigerator if you plan to eat them within 3-4 days. If you wish to store them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap the dish securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This method helps lock in freshness and prevents freezer burn, allowing you to enjoy this comforting delight whenever the mood strikes!
Variation of Indulgent Seafood Stuffed Shells: A Comforting Delight
The beauty of Indulgent Seafood Stuffed Shells lies in their versatility. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seafood or even add various vegetables! Here are some variations you might enjoy:
Crab or Lobster: Substitute shrimp with lump crab meat or lobster for a gourmet twist. Their delicate flavors will add sophistication to the dish.
Vegetarian Shells: For a meatless version, fill the shells with a delightful mixture of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and ricotta, paired with a hint of nutmeg for warmth.
Spicy Kick: To add a kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the filling. It’s a great way to spice things up!
Different Sauces: While Alfredo sauce is traditionally used, why not try a marinara or pesto sauce instead? Each will impart a distinct flavor profile that complements the stuffed shells beautifully.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil, dill, or chives as substitutes for parsley. Each green will bring its unique character and fragrance.
FAQ
What is the best seafood for stuffed shells?
While shrimp is a popular choice, many love crab or even scallops. The key is to use fresh seafood to enhance flavor.
Can you make Indulgent Seafood Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the shells a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them.
How can I make these stuffed shells spicier?
If you enjoy a little heat, include diced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce in the filling. Adjust the spiciness according to your preference.
Do I need to pre-cook the seafood?
If using shrimp or crab, it’s best to lightly cook them before mixing them into the filling. This ensures they are fully cooked later and enhances their flavor.
How can I store leftovers?
Let your stuffed shells cool before transferring them to an airtight container. They would last in the fridge for 3-4 days or you can freeze them for longer storage.
Indulgent Seafood Stuffed Shells offer a delightful meal that’s as comforting as it is indulgent. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress everyone at your table. Enjoy the culinary journey as much as the end result!
Indulgent Seafood Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells (Cooked al dente)
- 2 cups Alfredo Sauce (Use homemade or store-bought) Reserve for drizzling
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese For a sharper taste use Pecorino Romano
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley For garnish and color
- 1 bowl Green Salad With light vinaigrette
Seafood Filling
- 1 cup Ricotta Cheese Creamier option
- 4 ounces Cream Cheese Can substitute with cream fraiche
- 1 cup Shrimp Or substitute with crab
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning Adjust according to spice preference
- 2 cloves Garlic Use fresh for best flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil the jumbo pasta shells in salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese and cream cheese until smooth.
- Finely chop the garlic and add it to the cheese mixture.
- In another bowl, toss shrimp (or crab) with Old Bay seasoning.
- Combine the seasoned seafood with the cheese mixture.
Assembly
- Gently fill each pasta shell with the seafood stuffing.
- Spread a layer of Alfredo sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the filled shells in the dish and pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the top.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese across the surface.
Baking
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese bubbles and edges are golden.
- Let it cool for a few moments and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
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