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Delicious shrimp stuffed shells ready to serve in 30 minutes

Shrimp Stuffed Shells

A delightful dish featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich and creamy shrimp filling, blending savory shrimp, ricotta, and mozzarella.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Filling
  • 20–24 pieces jumbo pasta shells Select large shells for optimal filling.
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped Fresh shrimp is recommended for best flavor.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil Used for sautéing shrimp.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor to both the filling and sauce.
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese Creamy base for the filling.
  • 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided One cup for filling, remaining for topping.
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping Adds a savory flavor.
  • 1 large egg Binds the filling together.
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley, plus more for garnish Fresh herbs enhance flavor.
  • 0.5 tsp Italian seasoning Blend of dried herbs.
  • 0.5 tsp kosher salt Adjust to taste.
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper For seasoning.
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter Used for the sauce.
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour Thickens the sauce.
  • 2 cups half-and-half Can substitute with 1 cup heavy cream + 1 cup milk.
  • 1 cup chicken broth Adds depth to the sauce.
  • 0.25 tsp crushed red pepper flakes Optional for added heat.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the jumbo pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
Assembly and Baking
  1. Take each cooked shell and fill with about 2 tablespoons of the shrimp mixture. Place each filled shell in a greased baking dish.
  2. In the same skillet, melt 3 tbsp of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 30 seconds. Whisk in 2 tbsp of flour, cooking for 1 minute. Gradually stir in the half-and-half and chicken broth, continuing to whisk until smooth. Add 1 cup of Parmesan, seasoning, and red pepper flakes, if desired, and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Pour the sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring each is covered. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
  4. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  5. Once out of the oven, let the dish sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with additional chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Enhance flavor by adding a splash of lemon juice to the filling. Customize with vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. For serving, a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a nice touch of heat.