Introduction
Welcome to a culinary delight that will transport you straight to a seaside dining experience! These Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are the perfect combination of comfort and elegance, making them ideal for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. With each forkful, you’ll savor the rich flavors of creamy cheeses, succulent shrimp, and tender scallops, all housed in tender pasta shells. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup cooked scallops, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for getting that lovely golden brown finish on your cheese.
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain them and set aside to cool.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped shrimp, chopped scallops, Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese, heavy cream, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing until everything is beautifully combined.
- Spoon the luscious seafood mixture into each cooked pasta shell and arrange them snugly in a greased baking dish, like little boats waiting to set sail.
- Pour any remaining heavy cream over the stuffed shells, letting it seep into every nook and cranny, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top for that gooey, irresistible finish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.
- After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and has turned a delightful golden hue.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
Notes or Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the seafood mixture if you like a hint of spice. Additionally, you can substitute the seafood with your favorite proteins or vegetables to make it your own!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves basic techniques such as boiling pasta, mixing ingredients, and baking. The key is to ensure your pasta shells are cooked al dente so they hold up during the baking process. Feel free to let your creativity shine by adjusting the filling or cheese based on your preferences!
FAQ
Can I prepare these stuffed shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the shells a day before, cover them tightly, and store them in the refrigerator. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to bake!
What can I serve with these stuffed shells?
Pair these creamy stuffed shells with a fresh garden salad and some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Conclusion
These Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells offer a sublime mix of textures and flavors that will leave your guests raving. Perfect for those who adore seafood and comfort food alike, this dish is an absolute must-try. So gather your ingredients, turn on some soft music, and enjoy the process of creating something truly special in your kitchen!