Ultimate Seafood Stuffed Shells

If you're searching for a dish that perfectly marries comfort with culinary sophistication, look no further than Ultimate Seafood Stuffed Shells. This delightful meal brings the ocean's bounty right to your dining table, offering an indulgent experience that is both satisfying and elegant. The beauty of seafood stuffed shells lies not only in their presentation but also in their ability to combine rich, savory flavors with delectable textures. Each bite delivers a creamy, cheesy filling paired with succulent seafood, all enveloped in a tender pasta shell — a combination that appeals to seafood lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike.

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this delicious Seafood Stuffed Shells recipe that beautifully combines rich flavors and satisfying textures. Each jumbo shell is filled with a creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and savory seafood like shrimp and crab, creating a gourmet experience right at home. With step-by-step instructions, you’ll impress your family and friends with this elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Dive into the flavors of the sea and enjoy a culinary adventure!

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Ingredients

For the Stuffed Shells:

20 jumbo pasta shells

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped

1 cup cooked crab meat

1/2 cup baby spinach, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamier sauce)

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

Prepare the Filling:

- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped shrimp, crab meat, spinach, parsley, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined.

Make the Sauce:

- In a large saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.

- Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes.

- If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in the heavy cream and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Assemble the Shells:

- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

- In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom.

- Using a spoon, carefully fill each pasta shell with the seafood mixture and arrange them in the baking dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure they are well covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

Bake:

- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve:

- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4-6