There’s something so undeniably comforting about stuffed shells. But when you take those tender pasta shells and fill them with a rich mix of lobster, crab, and creamy cheese, then bake them in a luscious Parmesan-Mozzarella sauce—well, that’s when dinner becomes unforgettable. Creamy seafood stuffed shells are not just a meal; they’re an experience. This dish feels like something you’d order at a fancy restaurant on a special night out, yet it’s simple enough to recreate right at home. It’s cozy, indulgent, and absolutely loaded with flavor.
The first time I made these seafood stuffed shells, it was for a small dinner gathering with friends who love seafood. I wanted to do something different from the usual baked ziti or lasagna, and wow—this dish stole the show. The moment I pulled the bubbling tray out of the oven, all eyes were on it. And after that first cheesy, seafood-filled bite? Silence. The good kind. The kind that means everyone’s too busy enjoying their food to speak.
What makes this seafood stuffed shells recipe so magical is the balance of textures and flavors. You get the sweetness of the crab and lobster, the richness of the cheese, the creaminess of the sauce, and that golden, slightly crisp topping from the final minutes of baking. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a celebration, whether it’s a weeknight treat or a main event at your next family dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy seafood stuffed shells recipe is one of those dishes that instantly impress. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or someone just venturing into homemade seafood dishes, this one hits the sweet spot between elegance and ease. Here’s why you’ll be head over heels for it:
- It’s easy to make, despite how fancy it looks. The steps are straightforward, and you can even prep parts of it in advance.
- The flavors are decadent and well-balanced. The sweetness of the seafood pairs beautifully with the richness of the cheese and the silkiness of the cream sauce.
- It’s family-friendly. Even kids who aren’t huge seafood fans tend to go for the creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite.
- It makes any meal feel like a special occasion. Serve this up and watch how quickly your dinner table feels elevated.
- You can customize it. Not a fan of lobster? Add more crab or swap in shrimp. Want it spicy? Toss in some red pepper flakes. The base recipe is flexible and forgiving.
Best of all, it’s one of those dishes where every element complements the other. From the perfectly cooked pasta shells to the creamy, cheesy center and golden topping, it’s a symphony of flavor in every forkful.
Health Benefits
While this dish leans on the indulgent side, it does bring some nutritional value to the table—especially thanks to its seafood components. Here are a few benefits you can feel good about:
- Lobster and crab are high in protein and low in fat, making them excellent choices for lean, nutrient-dense proteins.
- Seafood is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain health and reduce inflammation.
- Parmesan and mozzarella provide calcium, which is essential for bone health.
- Garlic offers antioxidants, which can help support the immune system and reduce oxidative stress.
- Using heavy cream and cream cheese in moderation gives you satisfying richness, which helps with portion control—you’ll feel full and satisfied with a reasonable serving.
When paired with a crisp salad or roasted veggies, this dish rounds out into a well-balanced meal that’s both comforting and nourishing.
Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 6
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 520
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this luxurious seafood pasta dish. Make sure to use fresh or high-quality seafood for the best results.
The Filling:
- 8 oz cooked lobster meat, chopped
- 8 oz lump crab meat (can substitute with shrimp or imitation crab)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
The Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free option)
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan Reggiano
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
The Shells:
- 20–24 jumbo pasta shells
- Optional: Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
These ingredients are easy to find and come together to form a rich, creamy dish with layers of flavor.
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your jumbo pasta shells and cook them until they’re al dente—usually about 9 minutes. You want them slightly firm so they don’t tear when you fill them. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Filling
While your shells cool, start preparing the filling.
- In a large bowl, combine the lobster meat, crab meat, softened cream cheese, and shredded mozzarella.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
- Mix until everything is evenly distributed. Don’t overmix—you want some texture from the seafood to remain.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Now it’s time to build that dreamy cream sauce.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 more minute to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, making sure there are no lumps.
- Reduce the heat and simmer the sauce until it thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella, allowing the cheeses to melt and the sauce to become smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Shells
Now comes the fun part—stuffing the shells.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spoon a generous layer of cream sauce into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Using a spoon or your fingers, gently fill each shell with the seafood mixture.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish, seam-side up.
- Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the top.
Step 5: Bake
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
How to Serve
This dish is rich, so pairing it with lighter sides is a great way to balance the meal. Here are a few delicious ideas:
- Serve the stuffed shells with a simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
- Add a side of roasted asparagus or green beans for extra veggies.
- Warm up some crusty bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up the cheesy sauce.
- For a heartier meal, serve with buttered or herbed rice on the side.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement the creamy, savory flavors of this dish, try these pairing ideas:
- Non-alcoholic options: Sparkling water with lemon, iced herbal tea, or a citrusy mocktail all balance the richness.
- For kids: Serve with fruit cups, soft rolls, or buttered noodles for picky eaters.
- Salads: A cucumber and tomato salad or even a tangy coleslaw adds freshness.
- Sides: Roasted carrots, sautéed zucchini, or garlic mashed potatoes are also great.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken slightly, but it reheats beautifully.
Reheating
- Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F for 15–20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions in 60-second intervals until warmed through.
Freezing
To freeze:
- Assemble the stuffed shells with sauce in a freezer-safe dish.
- Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
- When ready to bake, remove foil and bake from frozen at 375°F for 45–50 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: Cook shells just until al dente so they hold their shape.
- Using watery seafood: Drain crab or lobster well to avoid watery filling.
- Not seasoning enough: Both the filling and sauce need salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Skipping the sauce base: A layer of sauce on the bottom prevents the shells from sticking and drying out.
- Overstuffing shells: Don’t force too much filling; it can cause tearing or uneven baking.
Pro Tips
- Drain the seafood thoroughly to prevent excess liquid from making the dish watery.
- Use freshly grated cheeses for the smoothest, richest melt and best flavor.
- Make the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before assembling.
- Broil for 2 minutes at the end if you want an extra golden, bubbly topping.
- Use a piping bag or zip-top bag with a corner cut off to easily fill the pasta shells.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use imitation crab instead of real crab?
Yes, imitation crab can be used as a more affordable option. While it lacks the texture and flavor of lump crab, it still works well in the creamy filling.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute with whole milk and a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken, or use half-and-half for a lighter version.
Can I add other seafood like shrimp?
Absolutely. Cooked, chopped shrimp or even small scallops make a great addition or substitution.
Do I need to pre-cook the seafood?
Yes, it’s best to use pre-cooked seafood to ensure the filling bakes evenly and safely.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the shells and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
How do I prevent the pasta from tearing?
Cook them al dente and handle gently when draining and filling.
Is this dish spicy?
Not at all, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you want a little kick.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free pasta shells and replace flour with cornstarch in the sauce.
Do I need to cover the dish while baking?
Covering keeps the shells moist during the first part of baking. Removing the foil at the end helps the top get golden and bubbly.
What herbs go best with this dish?
Fresh parsley, basil, or chives all add brightness and pair beautifully with the seafood.
Conclusion & Call to Action
These creamy seafood stuffed shells are everything you want in a comfort meal—rich, flavorful, and fancy without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or treating yourself to something indulgent, this dish is a showstopper. The balance of creamy cheese, sweet seafood, and golden baked pasta is downright irresistible.
Give this recipe a try and make it your own—play with the seafood, tweak the cheese combo, or add your favorite herbs. However you do it, don’t forget to snap a photo of your creation and share it with your food-loving friends. I’d love to hear how it turns out, so feel free to leave a comment or tag me if you post it online.
Ready to dive into creamy, cheesy seafood stuffed shells goodness? Grab those shells and let’s get cooking!
Print
Seafood Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
A rich and comforting baked pasta dish featuring jumbo shells filled with a luscious seafood mixture of lobster, crab, and cheeses, all topped with a velvety cream sauce. Perfect for special occasions or an elevated weeknight meal.
Ingredients
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2 tbsp butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
-
1½ cups heavy cream
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½ cup grated Parmesan Reggiano
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½ cup shredded mozzarella
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Cook pasta shells al dente, then drain and cool.
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Mix lobster, crab, cream cheese, and mozzarella for the filling.
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Sauté garlic in butter, add flour to make a roux, then whisk in cream.
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Stir in cheeses until sauce is smooth.
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Add sauce layer to a baking dish, stuff shells with filling, and arrange in dish.
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Top with remaining sauce.
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Cover and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes, uncover and bake another 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
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Garnish with fresh herbs and serve.
Notes
- Drain seafood well to avoid watery filling.
- Add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated or frozen before baking.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
