Shrimp Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Imagine a dish that combines the creamy, dreamy richness of Alfredo sauce with tender shrimp and cheesy stuffed pasta shells — that’s exactly what Shrimp Alfredo Stuffed Shells bring to your dinner table. This recipe is a showstopper, perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests with minimal fuss. Each bite offers a luscious blend of succulent shrimp, smooth ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and a velvety garlic Alfredo sauce that clings to every shell. Let’s dive into making this irresistible comfort food classic with a seafood twist.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

Shrimp Alfredo Stuffed Shells are not just delicious; they’re consistently satisfying and impressive without requiring hours in the kitchen. Here’s why you’ll want to keep this recipe in your rotation:

• Rich and indulgent: The creamy Alfredo sauce combined with cheese and shrimp makes every bite a luxurious experience.
• Family-friendly: This dish pleases both seafood lovers and cheese fans alike.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare it in advance, making weeknight dinners or meal prep easier.
• Customizable: Easily swap cheeses or add your favorite herbs to tailor it to your taste.
• Comfort food with a gourmet twist: It’s a step up from basic pasta dishes, perfect for special occasions or date nights.

What We’re Using

Here’s a detailed look at the fresh and flavorful ingredients that come together to make these Shrimp Alfredo Stuffed Shells truly shine:

• 20 large pasta shells: The perfect size to hold a generous filling.
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Adds a sweet, briny flavor and tender texture.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: For a creamy, mild base inside the shells.
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create gooey, cheesy bites.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty depth to the filling and sauce.
• 2 cups heavy cream: The foundation of a rich Alfredo sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce and shrimp with fragrant, savory notes.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the shrimp and garlic.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme to enhance flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning every component.
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal finish.

Must-Have Equipment

Having the right tools makes this recipe a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large pot: To cook the pasta shells al dente.
• Large skillet: For sautéing shrimp and garlic.
• Mixing bowls: To combine cheeses and seasonings.
• Baking dish (9×13 inch): To assemble and bake the stuffed shells.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce gently.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure perfect ingredient ratios.

From Start to Finish: Shrimp Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Cook the Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 20 large pasta shells and cook until just al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the peeled and deveined shrimp along with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook shrimp until pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side. Remove from heat and chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in 2 cups heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese, chopped shrimp, and a few spoonfuls of Alfredo sauce. Mix gently to blend everything together without breaking up the shrimp too much.

Step 5: Stuff the Shells

Carefully spoon the shrimp and cheese filling into each cooked pasta shell, arranging them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle additional mozzarella and Parmesan on top if desired. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the baked shells for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of this delectable pasta dish.

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

If you need to adapt this recipe, here are some substitutions that keep the essence of Shrimp Alfredo Stuffed Shells intact:

• Dairy-free cheese alternatives: Use cashew-based ricotta and mozzarella-style shreds for a lactose-free version.
• Heavy cream substitute: Coconut cream or a blend of almond milk with a thickener like cornstarch can mimic creaminess.
• Gluten-free pasta shells: Look for gluten-free jumbo shells or use large gluten-free manicotti tubes.
• Seafood alternative: For those allergic to shellfish, try substituting with cooked chicken or turkey breast chunks.

Pro Tips & Notes

• Don’t overcook the pasta shells; they should be al dente since they’ll bake further in the oven.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melt.
• If you want an even more indulgent sauce, add a knob of butter while simmering the cream.
• To add a little color and texture, toss in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the cheese filling.
• For an extra garlic kick, garlic roasted shrimp work beautifully here — or try this Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Alfredo recipe for inspiration.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can assemble the Shrimp Alfredo Stuffed Shells a day in advance. Simply prepare the filling, stuff the shells, and cover them with sauce in the baking dish. Keep it refrigerated and bake when ready to serve. Leftovers store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.

FAQ

Can I freeze Shrimp Alfredo Stuffed Shells?

Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked assembled shells in a freezer-safe dish covered tightly with foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed. This makes a convenient meal prep option.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F until bubbly and heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can cover with foil to prevent the top from drying out.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

Is it okay to add vegetables to the filling?

Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, or finely diced bell peppers all make excellent additions for extra flavor and nutrition.

Explore More

• Love seafood pasta? Try this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta for another decadent dinner.
• Looking for a baked alternative? The Garlic Butter Shrimp Alfredo Bake is a delicious and easy option.
• For a lighter take on creamy shrimp dishes, check out recipes that use lighter cream or broth bases.

Bring It to the Table

Serve these Shrimp Alfredo Stuffed Shells alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon complements the richness beautifully. Whether for a family dinner or special occasion, this dish brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of elegance to your table.

Shrimp Alfredo Stuffed Shells deliver a wonderful marriage of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more. The creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and cheesy filling wrapped in perfectly cooked pasta shells make this recipe a standout crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and watch it become a fast favorite in your recipe collection!

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