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Indulge in Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells for Ultimate Comfort

Indulge in Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells for Cozy Comfort

Indulge in Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells for Ultimate Comfort, a customizable and quick weeknight dinner full of rich flavors.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells These large shells hold the creamy seafood filling securely.
For the Filling
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Adds rich flavor; can substitute with olive oil for a lighter version.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh is best for delicious aroma; adjust quantity based on taste preference.
  • 1 cup Lobster Meat The star of the dish; use fresh for best results, though imitation works too.
  • 1 cup Crab Meat Fresh lump is preferred for quality, but imitation crab is a budget-friendly substitute.
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese Creates a creamy texture; light cream cheese can be used.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Adds melty creaminess; substitute with any favorite melting cheese.
For the Sauce
  • 1/4 cup Flour Thickens the cheese sauce; cornstarch is a gluten-free option.
  • 2 cups Heavy Cream Forms the base of the velvety sauce; whole milk is a lighter alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds nuttiness to the sauce; pecorino romano can substitute.
  • Salt and Pepper Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust to personal taste.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • pot
  • medium saucepan
  • 9x13-inch baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in 1 cup of lobster and 1 cup of crab meat, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until warmed through. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed seafood mixture with 8 ounces of cream cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then mix thoroughly until the filling is well blended and creamy.
  3. Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add 12 jumbo pasta shells. Cook the shells for about 9-11 minutes, or until al dente. Using a slotted spoon, remove the shells and transfer them to a colander to drain, then allow them to cool gently on a clean kitchen towel.
  4. For the sauce, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup of flour, cooking until it turns golden, about 2 minutes. Gradually pour in 2 cups of heavy cream, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and thickened, approximately 3-4 minutes. Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan until melted and creamy.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you assemble your dish. Spread a thin layer of the prepared cheese sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Stuff each cooled pasta shell generously with the seafood filling and arrange them in the dish. Pour the remaining cheese sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered.
  6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes. After that, uncover the dish and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling and lightly golden on top.
  7. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or freshly chopped herbs if desired. Serve warm to enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Feel free to mix different seafood based on your preferences. This dish can also be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.

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