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To create the Ultimate Seafood Stuffed Shells, you will need a selection of key ingredients that contribute to the dish's overall flavor, texture, and nutritional value. Let’s break down each component to understand its role in this sumptuous recipe:

Ultimate Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe

Dive into a world of flavor with Ultimate Seafood Stuffed Shells, a dish that combines succulent shrimp, sweet crab meat, and a blend of creamy cheeses, all nestled within large pasta shells. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, this recipe offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Easy to prepare, anyone can master this culinary delight. Impress your loved ones and bring the taste of the ocean to your dining table with this comforting seafood dish.
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Ingredients
  

20 large pasta shells

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and diced

1/2 pound crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)

1/2 cup cooked and crumbled Italian sausage (optional)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 tablespoon olive oil

Additional mozzarella for topping

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

      Prepare the Seafood Filling:

        In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the diced shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the crab meat, Italian sausage (if using), Old Bay seasoning, and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

          Mix the Cheese Mixture:

            In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese. Add the cooked seafood mixture to the cheese mixture along with parsley, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Gently mix until well combined.

              Stuff the Shells:

                In a 9x13 inch baking dish, pour a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom (about 1/2 cup). Using a spoon, fill each cooked shell with the seafood and cheese mixture, then place the filled shells in the baking dish, open side up.

                  Add More Sauce and Cheese:

                    Once all the shells are filled and placed in the dish, cover them generously with the remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese over the top.

                      Bake:

                        Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                          Serve:

                            Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with extra fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy your Ultimate Seafood Stuffed Shells hot.

                              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 45 min | 4-6 servings