Irresistible Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe

Published: October 27, 2025

by Aria

There’s something undeniably enchanting about the aroma of creamy seafood stuffed shells wafting through your kitchen. Picture this: plump pasta shells cradling a rich, velvety filling of shrimp and crab, all smothered in a luscious white sauce. Just imagine the moment when you pull that bubbling dish out of the oven, golden and irresistible, ready to be devoured. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering.

Jump to:

Essential Ingredients
How to Make Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Add Your Touch
Storing & Reheating
FAQ
Can I use different seafood in creamy seafood stuffed shells?
What cheese works best for stuffing?
How do I prevent the shells from sticking together?
📖 Recipe Card

I vividly remember the first time I made creamy seafood stuffed shells. My friends were over for a game night, and I wanted to serve something that would wow them. As soon as they took their first bite, their eyes lit up like children on Christmas morning. The laughter and compliments flowed as freely as the wine, making it a night to remember. These shells are my go-to recipe whenever I want to create an unforgettable dining experience.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Creamy seafood stuffed shells are not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to prepare for any occasion
They boast a rich flavor profile that combines seafood and creamy goodness perfectly
The striking presentation makes them an eye-catching centerpiece on your dinner table
You can easily adapt the filling based on your favorite seafood or dietary preferences for added versatility

The joy of sharing this dish with loved ones is what keeps me coming back to it again and again.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Large Pasta Shells: Opt for high-quality pasta; larger shells hold more filling and add texture.
Fresh Shrimp: Choose raw shrimp for the best flavor; they should smell like the sea, not fishy.
Crab Meat: Use lump crab meat if possible; it’s sweeter and gives the dish an elegant touch.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese creates a luscious base for your filling; don’t skip this ingredient!
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances flavor; feel free to add more if you love garlic!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth; look for fresh grated for superior taste.
Heavy Cream: This makes everything creamy and dreamy; light cream won’t give you that luxurious texture.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens up the flavors; it’s not just a garnish, trust me!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

How to Make Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells

Prepare Your Oven and Pasta Shells: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook large pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.

Create the Seafood Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked shrimp, crab meat, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, half of the Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley until well blended.

Fill Those Shells!: Gently spoon generous amounts of the seafood mixture into each shell using a small spoon or piping bag. Place filled shells in a greased baking dish in a single layer.

Make Your Cream Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream and remaining Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper as desired.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Pour cream sauce evenly over stuffed shells in the baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Garnish Before Serving!: Once out of the oven, sprinkle with additional parsley for color and freshness before serving hot! Enjoy those delightful bites!

This creamy seafood stuffed shells recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your household or among friends. Each bite delivers layers of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds! So grab those ingredients and let’s get cooking!

You Must Know

Creamy seafood stuffed shells are a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with comforting textures
They impress guests and satisfy hungry bellies, making them perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners
The aroma of baked cheese is simply irresistible!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear your seafood first to lock in flavor. While it sizzles, cook the pasta shells and prepare the creamy filling for a seamless cooking experience.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap shrimp for crab or add spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. Experimenting with spices can also elevate the taste!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through to maintain creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly stuffed shells, avoid overcooking pasta to prevent breakage
Use fresh herbs for added flavor, and consider adding a sprinkle of breadcrumbs before baking for extra crunch

The first time I made creamy seafood stuffed shells, my friends declared it “life-changing.” Their delighted expressions while devouring every last bite made my culinary heart flutter.

FAQ

Can I use different seafood in creamy seafood stuffed shells?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix shrimp, crab, or even lobster for variety.

What cheese works best for stuffing?

Ricotta is classic, but mixing in cream cheese adds extra creaminess and flavor.

How do I prevent the shells from sticking together?

After boiling, rinse the shells with cold water and toss them lightly in olive oil.