Jumbo Pasta Shells Stuffed with Shrimp in Creamy Cheese Sauce

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Introduction

This dish brings together tender jumbo pasta shells, succulent shrimp, and a velvety cheese sauce that coats every bite. It’s rich, comforting, and full of coastal flavor—perfect for special occasions, date nights, or when you want an impressive meal without complicated steps.

Ingredients & Quantities

For the Pasta Shells & Filling

• 20–24 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional for brightness)

For the Creamy Cheese Sauce

• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp flour
• 2 cups heavy cream (or 1 cup cream + 1 cup milk)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp white or black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta Shells

Boil the jumbo shells in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Shrimp

• Melt 1 tbsp butter in a skillet.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
• Stir in the chopped shrimp, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Cook 2–3 minutes until just pink. Remove from heat.

3. Make the Filling

Combine the cooked shrimp with:

• ricotta
• mozzarella
• Parmesan
• egg
• parsley
• lemon juice (optional)

Mix until creamy and well blended.

4. Stuff the Shells

Spoon the shrimp-cheese mixture into each cooked shell. Arrange the filled shells in a lightly greased baking dish.

5. Prepare the Creamy Cheese Sauce

• Melt 3 tbsp butter in a saucepan.
• Whisk in the flour to make a roux; cook 1 minute.
• Gradually pour in the cream while whisking.
• Add mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, pepper, salt, and nutmeg.
• Simmer 3–5 minutes until smooth and thick.

6. Bake

Pour the cheese sauce over the stuffed shells.

Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.

Uncover and bake 10 more minutes to lightly brown the top.

Origin & Cultural Significance

Stuffed pasta shells, traditionally Italian, showcase the classic art of pairing delicate pasta with rich fillings. This version incorporates shrimp, blending seafood comfort food with Italian-inspired baked pasta. It reflects the modern trend of fusion home cooking—elevated flavors with familiar, cozy textures.

Description

Expect soft shells filled with creamy ricotta and juicy shrimp, all drenched in a silky, cheesy sauce. The top develops a light golden color, while the interior stays luscious and tender. Each bite delivers layers of flavor: buttery garlic shrimp, rich cheeses, and warm herbs tying everything together.

Optional Additions

• Spinach (fresh or cooked, mixed into the filling)
• Crab meat for extra seafood richness
• Red pepper flakes for heat
• Smoked paprika for deeper flavor
• A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top for crunch
• A squeeze of lemon over the finished dish for brightness

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the shrimp—keep them tender.
• Let the shells cool before stuffing to avoid tearing.
• For a lighter version, use half cream and half milk.
• Add a little pasta water to the sauce if it becomes too thick.
• Bake covered first to prevent drying out.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving, 6 servings)

• Calories: 480–580
• Protein: 28–34 g
• Carbs: 32–40 g
• Fat: 28–35 g
• Sodium: Variable depending on cheese and seasoning

Conclusion

This dish is indulgent, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress. It blends the richness of creamy cheese sauce with the delicacy of shrimp, making it a standout in both flavor and presentation.

Recommendation

Serve with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete, memorable meal. It’s also a great candidate for meal prep or reheating without losing quality.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Enjoying a luxurious dish like this can be part of a balanced lifestyle. Portion thoughtfully, savor the creamy textures and fresh shrimp, and pair it with lighter sides for harmony on the plate.