There’s something about a bubbling dish of creamy seafood stuffed shells that just feels like a warm, indulgent hug at the end of a long day. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner at home, entertaining guests, or simply craving something extra comforting and satisfying, this recipe is bound to impress. Think tender jumbo pasta shells, generously filled with a rich, savory mix of lobster and crab, all smothered in a silky cheese sauce that’s baked to golden, bubbly perfection. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary evening into something memorable.

I first made these creamy seafood stuffed shells for a family gathering on a chilly weekend. I wanted something that felt special but wasn’t too fussy, and these delivered in every way. Everyone went back for seconds (some even thirds), and now it’s a go-to favorite in my kitchen anytime I want to bring a little wow factor to the table. What I love most is how luxurious it tastes with surprisingly minimal effort—and you don’t have to be a professional chef to pull it off.

With each bite, you get the tender bite of pasta, the briny sweetness of the seafood, the creamy tang from the cheese, and just a whisper of garlic to bring it all together. It’s a complete comfort food experience wrapped in one cozy dish. And trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again for all kinds of occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy seafood stuffed shells is a keeper for so many reasons. Let’s break down exactly why it belongs in your regular rotation—especially when you want to impress without the stress.

Rich and Decadent: The luxurious mix of cream cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella blends beautifully with the sweetness of crab and lobster. Every bite is packed with flavor and melts in your mouth.
Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s a holiday dinner, a birthday celebration, or even a stay-at-home date night, these shells make any evening feel like a special event.
Comforting and Satisfying: There’s nothing more comforting than a hot, cheesy pasta dish fresh out of the oven. This one just happens to come with a seafood twist.
Customizable: Don’t have lobster on hand? No problem. You can swap in shrimp, scallops, or even just crab. There are lots of ways to make it your own.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble everything in advance and bake it off when you’re ready. This makes dinner parties and busy weeknights so much easier.

Every element—from the creamy filling to the golden baked top—works together to deliver a dish that’s both elegant and deeply satisfying.

Health Benefits

While this creamy seafood stuffed shells recipe is definitely on the indulgent side, it’s not without some nutritional perks. Here’s a quick look at some of the ingredients and how they can contribute to a balanced meal:

Seafood Power: Both lobster and crab are excellent sources of lean protein, as well as essential nutrients like vitamin B12, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients support heart health, brain function, and immune strength.
Calcium-Rich Cheeses: Parmesan, mozzarella, and cream cheese all contribute to your daily calcium needs, which is important for bone health.
Garlic Goodness: Garlic doesn’t just boost flavor—it also brings in antioxidants and can help support a healthy immune system.
Portion Control: Because the dish is rich and satisfying, a moderate portion is usually enough to feel full and content.

Pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a well-rounded meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for nutrition.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: Approximately 490
Protein: 29g
Carbohydrates: 21g
Fat: 32g

These values may vary slightly depending on the exact ingredients you use, but it’s a hearty, protein-rich dish that will definitely keep you satisfied.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this dish together:

8 oz lobster meat – Adds a sweet, tender texture and a luxurious seafood flavor.
8 oz lump crab meat – Rich in flavor with a soft, flaky texture that complements the lobster.
3 garlic cloves, minced – Aromatic and flavorful, it builds depth in the dish.
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the cheese sauce for a smooth, creamy finish.
Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential seasonings to enhance the overall flavor.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided – Melts beautifully and adds that classic cheesy pull.
1½ tablespoons butter, divided – Adds richness and helps build the base of the sauce.
8 oz cream cheese – Gives the filling its creamy, tangy texture.
½ cup heavy whipping cream – Makes the sauce incredibly rich and smooth.
¾ cup grated Parmesan Reggiano – Adds a nutty, salty bite and deepens the cheesy flavor.
12–15 jumbo pasta shells – Perfect for stuffing and holding all that delicious filling.
Foil – Used for covering the dish during baking to keep moisture in.

Make sure to use fresh or high-quality pre-cooked seafood for the best results. If you’re using frozen seafood, let it thaw fully and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Seafood
Start by heating ½ tablespoon of butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Then add the lobster and crab meat and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

2. Cook the Pasta Shells
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them until just al dente according to package directions. You want them firm enough to hold their shape when stuffed. Drain and set aside to cool for a few minutes.

3. Make the Seafood Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked seafood with the cream cheese, ½ cup of shredded mozzarella, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until smooth and evenly mixed. The filling should be thick but spreadable.

4. Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet you used earlier, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened, then stir in the Parmesan and the remaining mozzarella. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety.

5. Assemble the Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish and spoon a thin layer of cheese sauce on the bottom. Carefully stuff each pasta shell with the seafood mixture and arrange them in the dish. Once all the shells are in place, pour the remaining cheese sauce over the top, making sure they’re well-covered.

6. Bake the Shells
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is bubbly and slightly golden. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve

Here are a few easy and delicious serving suggestions:

Serve as a main dish with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
Add a side of garlic bread or crusty rolls for dipping into the sauce.
Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh basil for a pop of color and added freshness.
Sprinkle with extra Parmesan just before serving for a final cheesy flourish.

Pairing Suggestions

Side Dishes: Try roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or lemon-zested green beans. Their brightness balances out the rich flavors of the dish.
Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Serve with sparkling water infused with lemon or cucumber, or pair with a light citrusy mocktail to cleanse the palate.
Family-Friendly Option: Serve with buttered noodles or dinner rolls for the kids and a fresh salad for the adults.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. Cover with foil to keep it moist. You can also microwave individual servings for 1–2 minutes.
Freezing: To freeze, assemble the dish without baking. Wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen at 375°F for about 45 minutes, covering with foil for the first 30 minutes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the pasta shells: Make sure to cook them just until al dente so they don’t tear during stuffing.
Skipping the sauce layer under the shells: This helps prevent sticking and keeps the shells moist.
Using watery seafood: Drain your crab and lobster well to avoid a runny filling.
Not seasoning enough: Taste your filling and sauce before assembling to ensure it’s flavorful.
Overbaking: Too much time in the oven can dry out the dish. Stick to the timing for the best texture.

Pro Tips

Drain cooked seafood on paper towels to remove excess moisture before mixing into the filling.
Want a golden, bubbly top? Broil the dish for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor—it melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
Don’t skip the resting time after baking. A few minutes helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier.
Add chopped herbs like chives or parsley to the filling for an extra flavor boost.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use imitation crab instead of lump crab meat?
Yes, but fresh lump crab will give you better flavor and texture. If you’re on a budget, imitation crab is a decent substitute.

What type of pasta shells should I use?
Jumbo pasta shells are ideal. They’re large enough to hold a generous amount of filling without falling apart.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

Can I substitute heavy cream with milk?
Yes, though the sauce will be thinner. You can thicken it with a little extra cheese or a cornstarch slurry.

How do I prevent the shells from tearing?
Cook them al dente, drain gently, and lay them out on parchment or a baking sheet to cool before stuffing.

What goes well with seafood stuffed shells?
A fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a light soup are all great sides.

Can I add other seafood?
Yes. Chopped shrimp or scallops make excellent additions.

How do I make this recipe lighter?
Use light cream cheese and substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.

Can I use other cheeses?
Definitely. Gruyère, white cheddar, or fontina can offer a different taste profile.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Freeze in individual portions for easy weeknight meals, and reheat as needed.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Creamy seafood stuffed shells are the kind of dish that feels both luxurious and comforting. With a creamy filling, gooey cheese, and tender pasta shells, it’s a true showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this recipe never fails to satisfy.

I’d love to know how your stuffed shells turn out. Don’t forget to leave a comment, rate the recipe, or tag me with your kitchen creations. There’s nothing better than seeing your delicious spins on these classic comfort dishes!