Seafood Stuffed Shells – Creamy, Decadent & Worth Every Bite!

These Seafood Stuffed Shells are a showstopping dinner that brings all the luxury of a seafood restaurant right to your kitchen. Jumbo pasta shells are packed with a rich blend of crab, shrimp, and creamy cheeses, then baked in a luscious Alfredo-style sauce until bubbling and golden. It’s comfort food with a coastal twist — perfect for seafood lovers or a special night in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Filled with crab, shrimp, and creamy cheeses
• Easy to make ahead for guests or meal prep
• Baked to golden, bubbly perfection
• An elevated twist on traditional stuffed shells

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
• 1 cup lump crab meat (imitation is fine)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan
• 1 egg
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp flour
• 1 ½ cups milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Other

• 16–18 jumbo pasta shells, cooked al dente
• Extra shredded mozzarella and Parmesan for topping
• Chopped parsley or basil for garnish

How to Make It

Step 1: Make the seafood filling
In a large bowl, combine shrimp, crab, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the sauce
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Stir in Parmesan and a pinch of nutmeg. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Stuff the shells
Fill each cooked shell with the seafood mixture. Arrange stuffed shells in a greased baking dish.

Step 4: Add sauce and cheese
Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the shells. Sprinkle extra mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

Step 5: Bake
Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and serve
Sprinkle with fresh herbs and serve hot.

Tips for Success

• Chop the shrimp into small pieces so every bite is balanced.
• Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
• Want a bit of spice? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper to the filling.

What to Serve With It

• Garlic bread or focaccia
• Roasted asparagus or green beans
• A crisp Caesar or arugula salad

Why This Dish Works

The mix of seafood, cheeses, and creamy sauce gives this dish a luxurious mouthfeel that’s hard to beat. It’s comforting, flavorful, and feels a little fancy — yet it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself, this is one recipe that will impress every time.