Irresistible Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe in 30 Minutes

Name: Seafood Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 1 cup peeled and deveined shrimp (fresh or frozen); 1 cup lump crab meat; 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (divided); 2 cups marinara sauce (low-sugar); 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish); ½ tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

January 31, 2026

Updated:

January 31, 2026

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The aroma of seafood stuffed shells wafts through the air, tickling your senses with promises of creamy goodness and savory delights. Picture plump pasta shells cradling a luscious filling of shrimp, crab, and cheese, bubbling away in a rich marinara sauce. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into an Italian kitchen where nonna is slaving away, but here’s the kicker: you can whip it up in your own home without needing to don a chef’s hat.

I remember the first time I made seafood stuffed shells for my family—everyone gathered around the dinner table with eager anticipation. The moment they took their first bite, it was as if time stood still. My niece even declared it “life-changing,” which I suppose means I’m officially a culinary genius in her eyes. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this dish will have your loved ones raving and begging for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful seafood stuffed shells recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor

Its beautiful presentation makes it perfect for impressing guests
Versatile enough for any occasion, you can adapt the filling to suit your preferences
The creamy texture blends perfectly with the tangy marinara sauce for an unforgettable meal

The last time I served these stuffed shells at a family reunion, my uncle Bob went back for thirds—clearly, he was on a mission to empty my dish!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Large Pasta Shells: Aim for about 12-16 shells; these will be your delicious vessels of flavor.
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work great; just ensure they’re peeled and deveined for ease.
Crab Meat: Use lump crab meat for an elegant touch; it adds sweetness and texture.

Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese helps bind everything together; choose whole milk ricotta for richness.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan brings depth to the filling; it melts beautifully during baking.
Marinara Sauce: A quality jarred marinara will save time; look for one with no added sugars or preservatives.

Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color; don’t skip it!
Garlic Powder: A dash enhances flavor without overpowering; it’s a must-have in my kitchen.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all the flavors in your stuffing.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Pasta Shells: Boil water in a large pot and cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them carefully and set aside to cool slightly.

Create Your Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine shrimp, crab meat, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, half of the parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Stir until everything is well mixed and evenly seasoned.

Stuff Those Shells!: Take each cooked shell and gently fill it with about two tablespoons of the seafood mixture. Place each filled shell seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

Add That Sauce!: Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells until they are generously coated. Sprinkle remaining parmesan cheese on top for extra cheesy goodness.

Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.

Garnish & Serve!: Once out of the oven, let cool slightly before garnishing with additional chopped parsley. Serve warm and watch those smiles appear around your dinner table!

You Must Know

Seafood stuffed shells are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures
The creamy filling combined with the tender pasta creates an unforgettable dish that will impress your dinner guests

Perfect for special occasions, this recipe ensures that every bite is a burst of oceanic goodness

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta shells until al dente. Meanwhile, prepare the seafood filling on low heat to keep it tender. Finally, layer everything in a baking dish and top with sauce before baking to perfection.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your seafood mixture! Swap shrimp for crab or add fresh herbs like dill for extra flavor. You can also use different cheese blends for unique twists that cater to your taste preferences.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover seafood stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, ensuring they’re hot throughout without drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly stuffed shells, ensure not to overcook the pasta; it should remain slightly firm
Incorporate lemon zest into the filling for a refreshing twist

Always let the dish rest before serving, allowing flavors to settle beautifully

The first time I made seafood stuffed shells was for my sister’s birthday party. Everyone raved about it, especially when I revealed my secret ingredient—a touch of cream cheese!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make seafood stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them in advance and refrigerate before baking.

What types of seafood work best for stuffing?

Shrimp, crab, and scallops are excellent choices for flavorful stuffing.

Can I freeze leftover seafood stuffed shells?

Absolutely! Just store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

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