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Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe

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  • Author: larderecipes
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

 

For the Seafood Filling:

  • 1 cup lump crabmeat (fresh or canned, drained)
  • 1 cup cooked shrimp (peeled, deveined, and chopped)
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 large egg (lightly beaten)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1 teaspoon seafood seasoning (e.g., Old Bay)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

For the Parmesan Cheese Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups milk (2% or whole milk preferred)
  • 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of garlic powder (optional)

Optional Toppings:

  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (toasted in butter)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)

 


Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente, following package instructions (usually about 9–10 minutes).
  3. Drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  4. Arrange the cooled shells on a greased baking sheet to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Seafood Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crabmeat, chopped shrimp, mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise, and beaten egg.
  2. Add the finely chopped celery, green bell pepper, and red onion for texture.
  3. Season the mixture with seafood seasoning, black pepper, and lemon juice (if desired).
  4. Mix everything thoroughly until evenly combined.

Step 3: Make the Parmesan Cheese Sauce

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
  3. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
  4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and cook until thickened, about 2–3 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).

Step 4: Assemble the Seafood Stuffed Shells

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  3. Take each cooked shell and stuff it with about 1 tablespoon of the seafood filling.
  4. Arrange the filled shells snugly in the baking dish.
  5. Pour the Parmesan cheese sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring all shells are well-coated.

Step 5: Bake the Dish

  1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  2. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and golden on top.
  3. If desired, sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs and chopped parsley for garnish before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Let the seafood stuffed shells cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
  2. Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as a crisp garden salad or garlic bread, and enjoy!

 


Notes

 

  1. Season Generously: Ensure your filling is well-seasoned to highlight the seafood flavors. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust as you mix the filling.
  2. Make It Ahead: This dish can be prepared a day in advance. Assemble the stuffed shells, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh when ready to serve.
  3. Customize the Filling: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like ricotta cheese, scallops, or herbs for a personal twist.
  4. Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the shells while baking to prevent them from drying out. The sauce should be bubbly and slightly golden.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Approximately 3 stuffed shells
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 710 mg
  • Fat: 23 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 150 mg