There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of stuffed shells, isn’t there? Maybe it reminds you of family gatherings or cozy nights in. Today, I want to share with you a recipe that is not only easy to whip up but also absolutely delicious—Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Stuffed Shells! This dish is perfect for when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending all day in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Stuffed Shells 🍤🧀
- Fast: You can have the main components prepped and in the oven in about 20 minutes.
- Easy: It’s a simple “brown and bake” method that even beginner cooks can master.
- Giftable: This is a sturdy dish that travels well, making it perfect for potlucks or as a “get well soon” meal.
- Crowd-pleasing: Even people who think they don’t like seafood will fall in love with this creamy, cheesy version!
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells – These are the stars of the show, perfect for holding all that creamy filling!
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined – Fresh or frozen, shrimp adds a lovely flavor and texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the garlic and shrimp to perfection.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Because everything is better with garlic!
- 1 cup heavy cream – This gives the dish its creamy base.
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce – Creamy goodness that enhances the flavors.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melty and gooey, just how we like it.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For that extra cheesy kick.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that brings everything together.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for balancing flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – A pop of color and freshness!
How to Make Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Stuffed Shells 🍤🧀
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it will be nice and hot when you’re ready to bake.
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them and set aside to cool a bit.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Alfredo sauce, mixing well. Once combined, remove from heat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp mixture with half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the shrimp and cheese mixture and place them in a greased baking dish.
- Pour any remaining sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Substitutions & Additions
- Swap the shrimp for chicken or sautéed mushrooms for a different flavor.
- Add spinach or other veggies to the filling for some extra nutrition.
- Use a different cheese, like gouda or cheddar, if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the shrimp! They can become rubbery if left on the heat too long.
- Make sure to grease your baking dish well to prevent sticking.
- You can prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the dish when you’re ready to bake.
How to Store Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Stuffed Shells 🍤🧀
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Just cover them tightly with foil, and they will last in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- Can I make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely! Substitute the shrimp with your favorite veggies or meat alternatives.
- What can I serve alongside these stuffed shells? A fresh green salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully!
Feeling inspired? For more delicious recipes like this one, be sure to follow my Pinterest account!
Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Stuffed Shells
A comforting plate of stuffed shells filled with creamy shrimp Alfredo—perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them and set aside to cool a bit.
- Step 3: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant.
- Step 4: Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Step 5: Stir in the heavy cream and Alfredo sauce, mixing well. Once combined, remove from heat.
- Step 6: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp mixture with half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Step 7: Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the shrimp and cheese mixture and place them in a greased baking dish.
- Step 8: Pour any remaining sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 10: Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Notes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the stuffed shells before baking.