Creamy Baked Seafood Stuffed Shells with Garlic Sauce

These creamy baked seafood stuffed shells are a restaurant-quality comfort meal featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich seafood mixture, baked in a velvety garlic Parmesan cream sauce, and topped with melted cheese. Perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or a special family meal.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Shells

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
• 1 cup lump crab meat
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Cream Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken or seafood broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the jumbo shells until al dente. Drain and let cool.
2. In a bowl, combine shrimp, crab, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each shell with the seafood mixture.
4. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in flour and cook for another minute.
5. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and broth until smooth. Add Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer until slightly thickened.
6. Spread half the sauce into a greased baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top and pour the remaining sauce over them.
7. Sprinkle with extra mozzarella and Parmesan.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

• Fresh seafood delivers the best flavour, but thawed frozen seafood works well.
• Avoid overcooking the pasta shells to prevent tearing.

Tips

• Add chopped lobster or scallops for an extra luxurious filling.
• Broil for the last 2 minutes for a golden cheese topping.
• Serve with garlic bread and a crisp green salad.

Servings

Makes: 6 servings

Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 560
• Protein: 31g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fat: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

Health Benefits

• Seafood provides lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Garlic contains antioxidants and supports immune health.
• Dairy ingredients supply calcium for strong bones.
• A satisfying, protein-rich meal perfect for special occasions.

Q&A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Absolutely. Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

Q: Can I substitute the crab?
A: Yes. Use extra shrimp, lobster, or scallops instead.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.