Name: Irresistible Shrimp Scampi Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup chopped fresh parsley; ½ cup dry white wine; Salt and pepper to taste

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever tasted a dish so delightful that it lingers in your memory? The Irresistible Shrimp Scampi Stuffed Shells Recipe is one of those extraordinary meals. Picture large pasta shells, perfectly stuffed with succulent shrimp, garlic, and a creamy sauce that fills the air with an enticing aroma. This dish not only pleases the palate but also creates a feast for the senses.

I remember hosting an intimate dinner party where I decided to impress my guests with this dish. As soon as I took the first bite, I was transported back to a seaside restaurant where the flavors danced on my tongue. Every forkful was a celebration of textures and tastes, making it ideal for special occasions or casual family dinners. With its irresistible combination of rich flavors and comforting ingredients, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser every time!

Key Ingredients For Irresistible Shrimp Scampi Stuffed Shells Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Large Pasta Shells: Opt for high-quality pasta shells that can hold plenty of filling without breaking.
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works well; just ensure they are peeled and deveined for easy preparation.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm garlic cloves to bring out the best flavor in your dish.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and helps balance the flavors.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its luxurious texture; opt for full-fat cream for the best results.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enhances the flavor profile; buy block cheese and grate it fresh for optimal taste.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to your finished dish.

For the Sauce:

White Wine: A dry white wine complements the shrimp and adds depth to the sauce; choose one you’d enjoy drinking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Irresistible Shrimp Scampi Stuffed Shells Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step: Cook the Pasta Shells

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the large pasta shells and cook them according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the filling.

Second Step: Prepare the Shrimp Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then add shrimp. Cook until shrimp turns pink and opaque, approximately three minutes. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

Third Step: Fill the Shells

Carefully spoon the shrimp mixture into each cooked pasta shell. Place filled shells in a greased baking dish, ensuring they are snug but not overcrowded.

Fourth Step: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet used for cooking shrimp, pour in white wine. Scrape any bits from the bottom for extra flavor and let it simmer for about two minutes to reduce slightly.

Fifth Step: Combine Everything

Pour sauce over stuffed shells evenly. Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top before placing in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C).

Sixth Step: Bake Until Golden

Bake uncovered for about twenty-five minutes or until bubbly and golden on top. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before garnishing with chopped parsley.

Transfer to plates and enjoy this flavorful creation as part of your next meal!

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will enhance flavor significantly compared to dried alternatives.
Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your scampi sauce.
Prep Ahead of Time: You can prepare filling ahead of time; simply store it in the fridge until you’re ready to fill your shells.

Cooking Instructions

To prepare the Irresistible Shrimp Scampi Stuffed Shells, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, cook jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. While the shells cook, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for about one minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook until pink, approximately 3-4 minutes.

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, freshly chopped parsley, and some of the cooked shrimp mixture. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and a dash of lemon juice for added flavor. Once the shells are ready, drain them and let them cool slightly.

Stuff each shell generously with the shrimp mixture. Spread marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells upright in the dish and pour more marinara sauce over the top. Finally, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Irresistible Shrimp Scampi Stuffed Shells Recipe is perfect for various occasions and pairs well with:

A crisp garden salad. The freshness balances the richness of the stuffed shells beautifully.
Garlic bread. A warm loaf enhances your dining experience by complementing the flavors perfectly.
A glass of white wine. Pair it with Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to elevate your meal.

Storage Tips

Leftover Irresistible Shrimp Scampi Stuffed Shells can be stored easily. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you wish to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months when frozen.

To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Then place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this Irresistible Shrimp Scampi Stuffed Shells Recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. It offers a healthy dose of protein from shrimp and ricotta cheese while providing essential vitamins from fresh herbs and marinara sauce.

The serving size typically contains approximately 400 calories, with balanced macronutrients including carbohydrates, fats, and proteins that contribute to a satisfying meal without compromising your health goals.

FAQs:

What makes this Shrimp Scampi Stuffed Shells Recipe irresistible?

The unique combination of flavors in this recipe sets it apart.

Using high-quality ingredients such as fresh shrimp, tangy marinara sauce, and creamy ricotta elevates these stuffed shells into something truly special. The hint of lemon juice adds brightness while garlic brings depth to the overall taste profile. This delightful blend creates an irresistible dish that will impress family and friends alike.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can definitely prepare these stuffed shells ahead of time.

Assembling your Irresistible Shrimp Scampi Stuffed Shells Recipe a day in advance is convenient for busy schedules. Simply complete all steps up to baking, cover securely, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to serve, just pop them into a preheated oven without needing extra prep time on your busy day.

Are there any substitutes for shrimp?

If you’re looking for alternatives to shrimp, several options work well.

You could use cooked chicken or even sautéed vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist on this Irresistible Shrimp Scampi Stuffed Shells Recipe. These substitutes maintain flavor while accommodating dietary preferences or restrictions.

Can I use regular pasta instead of jumbo shells?

You can certainly opt for regular pasta varieties if desired.

While jumbo shells create an eye-catching presentation filled with savory goodness, using penne or rigatoni works equally well for stuffing purposes in this Irresistible Shrimp Scampi Stuffed Shells Recipe—just adjust cooking times accordingly!