Name: Seafood-Stuffed Shells Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 24 uncooked jumbo pasta shells; 2 cans (6 ounces each) lump crabmeat, drained; 8 ounces peeled and deveined cooked shrimp (41-50 per pound), chopped; 1/4 cup finely chopped celery; 1/4 cup finely chopped green pepper; 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion; 1-1/2 teaspoons seafood seasoning, divided; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper; 1 tablespoon butter plus 1/4 cup butter, divided; 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese; 1 large egg, lightly beaten; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons plus 4 cups 2% milk, divided; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1-1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese; Soft bread crumbs, toasted in butter and chopped fresh parsley

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 21 reviews

There is something truly unforgettable about this Seafood-Stuffed Shells Recipe that brings the flavors of the sea right to your dinner table in the coziest way possible. Plump jumbo pasta shells generously filled with a luscious blend of crabmeat, shrimp, and perfectly sautéed veggies are baked under a rich Parmesan cheese sauce until bubbling and golden. It’s a dish that balances creamy, savory, and delicate seafood notes in every bite, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser for family dinners or special occasions. Once you try this Seafood-Stuffed Shells Recipe, it’s sure to become one of your go-to comfort meals that people will ask for again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a dark gray bowl filled with small pieces of cooked chicken mixed with chopped green onions and some other small bits of vegetables. A woman's hand holds a wooden spatula inside the bowl, stirring the mixture. From the right side, a pouring container is held by a woman's hand slowly adding a light yellow creamy sauce over the chicken mix. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is your first step toward creating the magic of this recipe. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding texture, flavor, or that beautiful presentation that makes this dish stand out.

24 uncooked jumbo pasta shells: These serve as perfect edible vessels to hold the delicious seafood stuffing.
1/4 cup finely chopped celery: Adds a subtle crunch and fresh earthiness.
1/4 cup finely chopped green pepper: Brings a mild sweetness and vibrant color.
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion: For a slight sharpness and depth in flavor.
1 tablespoon butter plus 1/4 cup butter, divided: Essential for sautéing and making the rich sauce.
2 cans (6 ounces each) lump crabmeat, drained: Provides that indulgent, delicate seafood base.
8 ounces peeled and deveined cooked shrimp, chopped: Adds texture and a sweet ocean taste.
1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and adds creaminess to the stuffing.
1-1/2 teaspoons seafood seasoning, divided: A blend of spices that harmonizes and enhances the seafood flavor.
1/4 teaspoon pepper: Gives just the right hint of warmth without overpowering.
1 large egg, lightly beaten: Acts as a binder to keep the stuffing impeccably together.
1/4 cup mayonnaise: Brings a creamy, tangy richness to the filling.
2 tablespoons plus 4 cups 2% milk, divided: Used for mixing the filling and creating the luscious sauce.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the Parmesan cheese sauce to perfection.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances overall flavor without stealing the spotlight.
1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper: Adds texture and a fresh pop in the sauce.
1-1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese: The star of the sauce, providing a sharp and nutty flavor.
Optional: Soft bread crumbs, toasted in butter and chopped fresh parsley: For an irresistible crunchy topping and a fresh herbal note.

How to Make Seafood-Stuffed Shells Recipe

Step 1: Cook the pasta shells and shrimp

Start by cooking your jumbo pasta shells according to the package directions until they’re al dente and ready to cradle the seafood filling. Here’s a handy tip: if your shrimp aren’t already cooked, toss them into the simmering pasta water as soon as the shells are drained. Cook the shrimp for just one to three minutes until they turn that perfect pink, then plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking and keep them tender and juicy.

Step 2: Sauté the vegetables

Next, gently sauté the finely chopped green pepper and red onion in a tablespoon of butter until tender and fragrant. This step is where the lovely, softened sweetness develops, mingling beautifully with the seafood later on. Set this vibrant vegetable mixture aside until you’re ready to combine everything.

Step 3: Prepare the seafood stuffing mixture

In a large mixing bowl, lovingly fold together the lump crabmeat, chopped cooked shrimp, beaten egg, shredded mozzarella, mayonnaise, two tablespoons of milk, one teaspoon of seafood seasoning, black pepper, and the sautéed green pepper and onion. This combination creates a luxurious filling that’s bursting with flavor and creamy texture, guaranteed to make those shells irresistible.

Step 4: Stuff the pasta shells

Preheat your oven to 350°F to get it primed for baking. Drain and rinse the pasta shells under cold water to cool them slightly, then carefully fill each shell with about one heaping tablespoon of the seafood mixture. Lay the stuffed shells snugly in a greased 13×9-inch baking dish, stacking them side by side like little boats of deliciousness.

Step 5: Make the Parmesan cheese sauce

For that unforgettable creamy topping, melt the remaining butter over medium heat in a small saucepan. Whisk in the flour and coarsely ground pepper to create a roux, then slowly incorporate the remaining four cups of milk. Bring it all to a gentle boil, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens just right. Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, nutty sauce that perfectly complements the seafood-stuffed shells.

Step 6: Bake until bubbly and golden

Pour this decadent Parmesan sauce evenly over the stuffed shells in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of seafood seasoning atop to amplify the oceanic goodness. Bake the whole dish uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, allowing the sauce to bubble and the cheesy topping to turn gorgeously golden. The aroma wafting from your oven at this point will be downright irresistible.

How to Serve Seafood-Stuffed Shells Recipe

The image shows four large pasta shells filled with a creamy, light brown filling, topped with a smooth white sauce and sprinkled with small green herb bits. The shells rest on a round white plate, each shell slightly open to reveal the filling's soft, crumbly texture. On the back side of the plate, there is a small side salad made of green lettuce with some crunchy light brown croutons scattered around. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a pink cloth underneath, and a silver fork is placed behind the shells on the left side. A glass of water is partially visible at the top left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your dish visually and flavor-wise, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley right before serving. The bright green accents add a fragrant freshness, while optional toasted bread crumbs provide a delightful crunchy contrast that makes every bite a textural adventure.

Side Dishes

This meal pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads featuring citrus vinaigrettes or lightly steamed asparagus for a splash of freshness. Garlic bread or warm, crusty baguette slices also complement the creamy, cheesy shells by offering a satisfying crunch to mop up any extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve individual portions of stuffed shells nestled on a bed of vibrant arugula or baby spinach tossed in lemon juice. You can also sprinkle a few capers or thinly sliced roasted red peppers on top for a bold finish. Plating the shells alongside a lemon wedge gives guests the option to add a bright zing that perfectly balances the creamy richness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, you can store leftover seafood-stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Proper storage helps maintain the flavors while keeping the texture intact, making for a delightful second round of this dish.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. After filling the shells and placing them in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil and freeze before baking. When ready, bake from frozen, adding some extra time to ensure the dish heats through completely without drying out.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven until warmed through and the sauce is bubbly again, around 20-25 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the pasta rubbery and the sauce separate. A gentle oven reheating keeps the seafood-stuffed shells tasting just like fresh.

FAQs

Can I use fresh seafood instead of canned crabmeat?

Absolutely! Fresh crabmeat works wonderfully and adds even more delicate flavor. Just make sure it’s cooked and drained well before adding it to your stuffing to avoid excess moisture.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the pasta shells with gluten-free jumbo shells and use a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce. This way, you can enjoy the full flavor without worrying about gluten.

Can I prepare the seafood stuffing mixture ahead of time?

Definitely! You can mix the filling up to one day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to stuff the shells right before baking to keep everything fresh and perfectly textured.

What is seafood seasoning, and can I substitute it?

Seafood seasoning typically contains a mix of salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs like thyme or oregano. If you don’t have a premade blend, feel free to mix these spices yourself or use Old Bay seasoning as a delicious alternative.

Can I add other types of seafood to this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment by adding scallops, crab legs, or even lobster meat to make this recipe extra special. Just be mindful of cooking times and moisture to keep the stuffing from becoming watery.

Final Thoughts

This Seafood-Stuffed Shells Recipe is truly a gem that brings together the best of seafood and comfort food. Whether you’re impressing guests or simply treating yourself on a cozy night in, it’s a recipe that delivers warmth, flavor, and a little bit of seaside luxury. I hope you have as much fun making and savoring it as I do sharing it with my favorite people. Now, gather those ingredients and get ready to delight your taste buds!