Name: Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 24 uncooked jumbo pasta shells; 1/4 cup finely chopped celery; 1/4 cup finely chopped green pepper; 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion; 1 tablespoon butter; 2 cans (6 ounces each) lump crabmeat, drained; 8 ounces peeled and deveined cooked shrimp (41-50 per pound), chopped; 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese; 1-1/2 teaspoons seafood seasoning, divided; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1 large egg, lightly beaten; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons 2% milk; 1/4 cup butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper; 4 cups 2% milk; 1-1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese; Soft bread crumbs, toasted in butter; Chopped fresh parsley; Additional Parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 49 reviews

If you have a love for seafood and crave a dish that feels like a warm hug, you are going to adore this Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe. Imagine tender jumbo pasta shells filled with a luscious, savory mix of shrimp, crabmeat, and melty mozzarella, all wrapped up in a rich, velvety Parmesan sauce. This dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and comfort, making it a standout meal for family dinners or special occasions. Every bite delivers a creamy, flavorful seafood delight that’s as impressive to serve as it is satisfying to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows many small white bowls and a few light brown bowls neatly arranged on a white marbled surface, each holding different ingredients for a dish. On the right side, there is a large white bowl filled with uncooked pasta shells, and next to it, a glass measuring cup filled with milk. Other bowls contain peeled small shrimp, shredded crab meat, diced green bell peppers, chopped red onions, and cubes of butter. There is also a bowl of grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, a small dish of mayonnaise, a bowl of beaten eggs, and small dishes with paprika, salt, black pepper, diced celery, and flour. The ingredients have bright and fresh colors, with cream, yellow, green, pink, and white tones. The overall look is clean and organized, with each item clearly visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What I love most about this recipe is how the ingredients are thoughtfully simple yet essential for bringing this creamy seafood sensation to life. Each element adds its own magic—whether it’s the tender veggies for crunch, the seafood for that fresh ocean flavor, or the cheeses that melt beautifully to create that irresistible creaminess.

24 uncooked jumbo pasta shells: The perfect vessels to hold the luscious seafood filling.
1/4 cup finely chopped celery: Adds a subtle crunch and fresh flavor that balances richness.
1/4 cup finely chopped green pepper: Contributes mild sweetness and vibrant color.
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion: Brings a gentle pungency that rounds out the stuffing.
1 tablespoon butter plus 1/4 cup butter, divided: For sautéing and creating a creamy sauce base.
2 cans (6 ounces each) lump crabmeat, drained: The star seafood providing tender, sweet bites.
8 ounces peeled and deveined cooked shrimp, chopped: Adds hearty texture and delicate flavor.
1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese: Melts to provide gooey, cheesy goodness inside the shells.
1-1/2 teaspoons seafood seasoning, divided: Brings the perfect blend of spices to elevate the seafood.
1/4 teaspoon pepper: For subtle heat that livens the mixture.
1 large egg, lightly beaten: Binds the filling together smoothly.
1/4 cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and a little tang to the stuffing.
2 tablespoons plus 4 cups 2% milk, divided: Used to create the creamy cheese sauce.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the luscious sauce perfectly.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.
1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper: Adds peppery depth to the sauce.
1-1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, bringing salty, nutty brilliance.
Optional: Soft bread crumbs, toasted in butter and chopped fresh parsley: Adds a delightful golden crunch and fresh herb aroma as a topping.

How to Make Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Shells

Start by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. This ensures they are al dente and sturdy enough to hold the delicious filling without breaking. Once cooked, drain and rinse them under cold water so they don’t stick together and are ready for stuffing.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

While the pasta cooks, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped celery, green pepper, and red onion, cooking until they are tender and fragrant. These veggies add texture and a subtle sweetness that balances the richness of the seafood mixture perfectly.

Step 3: Make the Seafood Filling

In a large bowl, combine the drained lump crabmeat, chopped cooked shrimp, shredded mozzarella, 1 teaspoon of seafood seasoning, and freshly ground pepper. Stir in the sautéed vegetables for a wonderful flavor foundation. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg, mayonnaise, and 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth. This mixture will bind everything and bring a creamy, tangy finish when folded into the seafood.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Drain and rinse the cooked pasta shells, then gently stuff each one with about 1 rounded tablespoon of the seafood filling. Arrange the stuffed shells neatly in a greased 13×9-inch baking dish, creating a satisfying sight of seafood-filled pockets ready for their creamy topping.

Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

To create the sauce that makes this dish truly irresistible, melt the remaining 1/4 cup of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, salt, and coarsely ground pepper, cooking until bubbly to form a smooth roux. Gradually pour in the remaining 4 cups of milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a boil and stir for 2 minutes until thickened, then mix in the grated Parmesan cheese for that rich, nutty essence.

A white baking dish holds two rows of large stuffed pasta shells filled with a mixture of light beige shredded filling with small green and orange bits, arranged tightly side by side. A woman's hand holds a large silver spoon pouring creamy white sauce over the pasta shells, creating a smooth layer on top that starts to cover the fillings. The dish is set on a white marbled surface, and part of a metal pot with more sauce is visible to the right. The image is bright and clear, showing the textures of the pasta, filling, and sauce. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour the creamy Parmesan sauce evenly over the stuffed shells in the baking dish, and sprinkle the remaining seafood seasoning on top for an extra layer of flavor. Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, until bubbly and golden. If you like, finish with toasted buttered breadcrumbs and chopped fresh parsley for an added crunch and an inviting burst of color.

How to Serve Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil brings a vibrant green pop that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. For extra flavor and texture, dust the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or top with golden toasted breadcrumbs to add a crispy, savory contrast that keeps every bite exciting.

Side Dishes

Pair these creamy seafood stuffed shells with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or serve alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for a healthy, colorful plate. Garlic bread is another fantastic option, soaking up every bit of that luscious sauce and making the meal feel even more comforting.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions in small ramekins or bake the shells in a larger casserole dish for casual family-style dining. You can also experiment by adding a splash of white wine to the sauce or mixing in some fresh herbs like dill or tarragon to highlight the seafood flavors with an aromatic twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store leftovers airtight to maintain the creamy texture and fresh seafood flavors. When ready to enjoy again, the sauce might thicken slightly but reheats beautifully with a splash of milk or cream.

Freezing

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe freezes well, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Arrange the stuffed shells in a freezer-safe container, cover with sauce, and seal tightly. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

For reheating, cover the baking dish with foil to prevent drying out and bake at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions covered to retain moisture. Adding a splash of milk or cream before reheating helps restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh seafood instead of canned crabmeat?

Absolutely! Fresh crabmeat can add an even more vibrant flavor, but be sure to cook or steam it properly before using. Just keep the quantity similar to ensure the filling maintains its perfect texture.

Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the filling?

You can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter tangy option. Both will still provide that creamy consistency that binds the filling nicely.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells and a gluten-free flour or cornstarch for thickening the sauce. Be sure to check all seasonings and canned ingredients for gluten-containing additives.

What type of seafood seasoning works best?

Look for blends that include paprika, garlic powder, celery seed, and sometimes a hint of cayenne. This combination complements the natural seafood flavors perfectly without overwhelming them.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Definitely! You can prepare the seafood filling a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Stuff the shells and assemble the dish just before baking for the freshest final result.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly rewarding about making and sharing this Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe with the people you love. It’s a dish that looks sophisticated but is quite straightforward, filled with comforting layers of flavor and textures. If you enjoy seafood and crave a meal that combines creaminess with fresh, briny bites, this recipe will quickly become a treasured favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try, and let its warmth and richness bring joy to your dining table.