Craving a dish that’s both elegant and comforting? Look no further than this delightful Seafood Stuffed Pasta Shells recipe. Perfect for a cozy night in or to impress guests at a dinner party, these stuffed pasta shells are a delicious blend of creamy, rich flavors and tender seafood bites. Let’s dive into how to create this mouthwatering dish yourself!
### Seafood Stuffed Pasta Shells
**Ingredients:**
– 24 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb mixed seafood (such as shrimp, crab, and scallops), cooked and chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pasta Shells:** Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. **Make the Filling:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped mixed seafood, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. **Fill the Pasta Shells:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Take each cooked pasta shell and carefully stuff it with the seafood and cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish in a single layer.
4. **Assemble the Dish:** Once all the pasta shells are filled and arranged in the baking dish, spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells, covering them evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. **Bake:** Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Remove the foil and let the dish cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a delightful burst of flavor. These Seafood Stuffed Pasta Shells pair perfectly with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of the sea with these scrumptious Seafood Stuffed Pasta Shells. Whether you’re treating yourself to a special dinner or entertaining loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress with its creamy, seafood-filled goodness. Get ready to savor each bite and transport yourself to a cozy, delicious wonderland!
