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Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

Delight in Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells that expertly combine shrimp, scallops, and crab in a rich sauce, perfect for any dinner occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Pasta Shells Use gluten-free pasta shells for a gluten-free option.
For the Filling
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Can substitute with cottage cheese.
  • 8 ounces Mozzarella Cheese Consider vegan mozzarella for a dairy-free choice.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast works well as a vegan alternative.
  • 1 pound Shrimp The main protein source.
  • 8 ounces Scallops Feel free to omit if not available.
  • 8 ounces Crab Meat Swap with more shrimp or imitation crab for budget-friendly option.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Pre-minced garlic can save time.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Dried parsley can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Lime zest can be used as an alternate.
For the Sauce
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce Homemade or store-bought works well.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Can substitute with half-and-half or non-dairy cream.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Can be replaced with avocado oil.
For the Seasoning
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • to taste Red Pepper Flakes Omit if spice sensitivity is a concern.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • baking dish
  • Colander
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta shells and cook for 9 to 11 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally. Drain and rinse under cool water.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, shrimp, scallops, crab meat, minced garlic, fresh parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix gently.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stir frequently, and let simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in marinara sauce and let cook for another 3 minutes.
  4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
  5. Fill each shell with the seafood mixture and place seam-side up in the baking dish on marinara sauce. Pour remaining sauce over and sprinkle with leftover mozzarella.
  6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
  7. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Make-ahead tip: Assemble the shells ahead of time and store in the fridge before baking for an easy meal.

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