Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

This Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. Whether hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, this dish stands out with its rich creamy sauce and succulent seafood filling. It promises to impress your guests while being simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of lobster and crab meat creates an irresistible taste that seafood lovers will adore.
• Creamy Texture: The rich cheese sauce adds a velvety smoothness, making each bite comforting and satisfying.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for special celebrations or casual family dinners, it fits any dining occasion.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, this dish is straightforward to make, even for novice cooks.
• Impressive Presentation: Baked until golden, the dish looks stunning on any table, elevating your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious dish, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing ingredients evenly without crowding them.
• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking of the stuffed shells while allowing for easy serving.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

For the Seafood Filling:

• 8 oz lobster meat
• 8 oz lump crab meat
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided into 2 portions of ½ cup each)
• 1 ½ tablespoons butter (divided)
• 8 oz cream cheese
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• ¾ cup Parmesan Reggiano cheese, grated

For Baking:

• Aluminum foil

How to Make Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Seafood

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt ½ tablespoon butter.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add lobster and crab meat; cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked seafood, cream cheese, ½ cup shredded mozzarella, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Cook the Jumbo Shells

1. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
2. Drain and allow to cool slightly before filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt remaining 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly to form a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in heavy cream until smooth.
4. Stir in grated Parmesan and remaining ½ cup shredded mozzarella. Cook until sauce is creamy and smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of cheese sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
3. Stuff each cooled pasta shell with the seafood filling and place them in the baking dish.
4. Pour remaining cheese sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.

Step 6: Bake

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Serve

1. Let cool slightly before serving.
2. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

Serving Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce can elevate your dining experience. This dish is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor, making it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.

Garnish Options

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Extra Cheese: Add grated Parmesan or mozzarella just before serving for an extra cheesy touch.

Accompaniments

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Green Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish.

Presentation Ideas

• Individual Portions: Serve in small ramekins for individual servings, creating a more elegant presentation.
• Platter Style: Arrange shells on a large platter, drizzling extra cheese sauce over them to entice guests.

How to Perfect Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

Perfecting your Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out flawless.

• Bold Flavor Balance: Use fresh herbs and spices in the filling to enhance flavors without overpowering the seafood.
• Careful Cooking: Ensure that you don’t overcook the seafood; simply heat until warmed through for better texture.
• Cheese Consistency: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing to achieve a smooth filling.
• Shell Preparation: Avoid overcooking the pasta shells; they should be al dente so they hold their shape when baked.

Best Side Dishes for Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

Pairing side dishes with your Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this rich seafood dish.

1. Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds a crisp contrast to the creamy shells and is easy to prepare.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus brings a delightful crunch and freshness to your plate.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli offers a healthy green option that pairs well with rich flavors.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty side provides a wholesome base that complements the stuffed shells beautifully.
5. Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice infused with herbs makes for an excellent base that absorbs leftover sauce.
6. Bruschetta: A fresh tomato bruschetta adds brightness and acidity, balancing the dish’s richness.
7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing crunch alongside the creamy pasta bake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the jumbo shells too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions and cook them al dente to hold their shape when baked.

• Not Seasoning the Filling: Skipping salt and pepper in the seafood filling can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with seasoning to enhance the overall taste of your dish.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold cream cheese or seafood to the mixture can create lumps. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother filling.

• Skipping the Cheese Sauce Layer: Neglecting to spread a layer of cheese sauce at the bottom of the baking dish may result in sticking. This helps keep the shells moist while adding flavor.

• Not Letting it Rest Before Serving: Cutting into your dish immediately after baking can cause it to fall apart. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to set properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the dish is completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Layer parchment paper between shells if stacking, to prevent sticking.

Reheating Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and stir occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce:

Can I use different seafood?

Yes, you can substitute shrimp or scallops for lobster and crab based on your preference.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, use sautéed mushrooms and spinach instead of seafood, ensuring you maintain flavor with seasonings.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

What sides go well with Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce?

Consider serving a fresh garden salad or garlic bread as complementary sides for a complete meal.

How can I customize the cheese sauce?

Feel free to add different cheeses such as Gouda or cheddar for unique flavors while maintaining the creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

Seafood Stuffed Jumbo Shells with Creamy Cheese Sauce is not only decadent but also versatile for any occasion. You can customize it by incorporating your favorite seafood or adding vegetables. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!