Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Bake
Golden pasta shells filled with a rich, creamy seafood mixture and baked in a velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce — this comforting dish feels restaurant-worthy but is surprisingly easy to make at home. Every bite is packed with tender shrimp, crab, creamy cheese, and savory herbs tucked inside jumbo pasta shells and topped with bubbling melted mozzarella.
Perfect for cozy family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving indulgent seafood comfort food.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Shells
20 jumbo pasta shells
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 pound shrimp, peeled, cooked, and chopped
1/2 pound lump crab meat
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Creamy Sauce
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Extra parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo shells until just al dente. Drain and let them cool slightly.
Prepare the Seafood Filling
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the shrimp and crab meat, then cook for 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Fold in the seafood mixture until creamy and well combined.
Make the Cream Sauce
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously. Stir in garlic powder and Parmesan cheese. Simmer until smooth and thickened.
Assemble the Dish
Spread a small amount of sauce into the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each shell with the seafood mixture and place them in the dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the shells.
Bake
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with golden melted cheese.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
Tips for the Best Seafood Shells
Add scallops or lobster for an extra luxurious version.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest sauce.
A pinch of red pepper flakes adds gentle heat.
These shells taste even better the next day after the flavors meld together.
Serving Ideas
Pair these creamy seafood stuffed shells with:
Garlic butter bread
Caesar salad
Roasted asparagus
Lemon wedges for a fresh citrus finish
Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with seafood flavor, this baked pasta dish is pure comfort in every bite.
