Shrimp scampi stuffed shells are special. They bring family and friends together. I remember the first time I made them for a gathering.
It was a rainy Sunday afternoon. I wanted to impress my loved ones with an easy shrimp scampi recipe. The garlic butter shrimp’s aroma filled my kitchen.
My family was excited in the living room. They couldn’t wait for dinner. When I brought out the golden-baked homemade stuffed shells, everyone cheered.
Each bite was a mix of creamy filling, succulent shrimp, and spices. This dish has been a family favorite ever. I’m excited to share how to make shrimp scampi stuffed shells for your family!
Introduction to Shrimp Scampi Stuffed Shells
Easy shrimp scampi is my go-to comfort food. It brings the sea’s flavors right to our plates. This dish makes traditional stuffed shells even better with its garlicky shrimp scampi taste.
The mix of juicy shrimp and creamy filling is hard to resist. It’s a seafood pasta dish that wows everyone. It’s simple yet indulgent.
This recipe is perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make and always a hit. It’s great for both big gatherings and quiet nights at home.
This dish shows how versatile shrimp is in cooking. It’s a hit with seafood fans and pasta lovers alike. It’s a comforting meal that brings people together with its tasty flavors.
What Makes This Dish Special?
Shrimp scampi stuffed shells are a mix of great tastes and textures. They make a wonderful meal. The creamy filling and soft pasta shells are a perfect pair.
The tender shrimp adds a fresh touch. This makes the dish stand out. It’s great for both comfort food fans and those who love fancy meals.
The dish has bright flavors from garlic, butter, and herbs. White wine and lemon juice add a refreshing twist. This makes the seafood stuffed shells unforgettable.
This dish has creamy textures and a bit of spice. It’s perfect for impressing guests. It’s also easy to make at home.
If you want a shrimp scampi that’s both comforting and fancy, try this. It’s a recipe you won’t regret.
Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi Stuffed Shells
To make perfect shrimp scampi stuffed shells, you need some great ingredients. These ingredients add flavor and make every bite special. Here’s what you need to make this tasty dish.
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound of large shell-on shrimp, preferably 16-20 per pound
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 ounce diced pancetta for an added depth of flavor
- 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, plus 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley, divided for garnish
- 1/2 pound of spaghetti, optional if pairing with pasta
Optional Ingredients to Enhance Flavor
- Fresh spinach, for added nutrition
- Red pepper flakes, to introduce a bit of heat
- Herbs such as basil or thyme, to brighten the dish
When I make my shrimp scampi recipe, I use these ingredients. They make a rich filling for the pasta shells. The mix of shrimp, cheeses, and seasonings is unforgettable. Feel free to try the optional ingredients to make it your own!
How to Prepare the Shrimp Scampi Filling
Preparing the shrimp scampi filling is fun and makes the dish better. I heat two tablespoons of olive oil and two tablespoons of salted butter in a skillet. The heat is on medium.
When it’s hot, I add a half cup of minced onion and three minced garlic cloves. I sauté until they smell good. Then, I add one pound of peeled and deveined shrimp and a half teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes.
Next, I pour in one cup of dry white wine and add two teaspoons of lemon juice. I let it reduce a bit to make the flavors stronger. When the shrimp is pink and cooked, I take the skillet off the heat. I chop the shrimp into smaller pieces for the stuffing.
In another bowl, I mix the cheese. I use eight ounces of softened cream cheese, one cup of ricotta, and half a cup of parmesan cheese. I also add one large egg, a half teaspoon of salt, a half teaspoon of black pepper, and one tablespoon of parsley. This mix makes the filling creamy and full of flavor.
Now, I mix the shrimp with the cheese mixture. This filling is full of taste and ready to go into the pasta shells. It makes a delicious shrimp scampi stuffed dish.
Cooking the Jumbo Shells
Cooking jumbo shells is key to making great homemade stuffed shells. Start by boiling a big pot of salted water. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, but cut it by about three minutes. This makes the shells just right, not too hard.
After cooking, drain the shells in a colander. Rinse them under cold water briefly. This stops them from cooking more and keeps them from breaking.
Let the shells cool down completely before filling them. Lay them out on a clean towel while you make the filling. This keeps them from sticking together. Well-cooked jumbo shells are vital for a tasty stuffed pasta dish.
Assembling Your Shrimp Scampi Stuffed Shells
Assembling stuffed shells is like art. It’s fun to work with a tasty shrimp scampi filling. First, I let my cooked jumbo shells cool down.
Then, I put sauce at the bottom of my baking dish. This keeps the shells from sticking. Next, I fill each shell with shrimp scampi, being careful not to stuff too much.
After filling all the shells, I put them in the dish. I make sure they’re close but not too tight. This helps them cook evenly. I add more sauce and cheese on top for extra flavor.
Looking at my work, the shells, shrimp, and sauce look great. This way of assembling makes them look good for family dinners or parties. Every bite is delicious. Making these shells is part of the fun.
Baking Instructions for Perfect Stuffed Shells
To bake perfect stuffed shells, pay close attention. This makes the dish taste better and feel right. First, heat your oven to 375°F. This makes sure the shells cook evenly and the flavors mix well.
Then, put the stuffed shells in a baking dish. Cover it with aluminum foil tightly. This keeps the moisture in and cooks the filling well. Bake covered for about 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, take off the foil. This lets the cheese on top get golden and bubbly. Bake for another 5 to 10 minutes. Watch them so they don’t burn.
When done, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This makes it easier to serve. Follow these steps for creamy, tasty stuffed shells!
Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi Stuffed Shells
Customizing your shrimp scampi stuffed shells is important. You can change the spice level to your liking. Add more crushed red pepper flakes for heat, or use paprika for a milder taste.
Adjusting the Spice Level
Think about dietary substitutions too. Use gluten-free pasta shells for those who need them. For dairy-free, try almond or cashew cream cheese. Chicken or tofu can be great alternatives for shrimp.
Substitutions for Dietary Needs
It’s all about finding the right balance. Each ingredient affects the taste. Don’t be afraid to try new things. The more you cook, the better you’ll get at it.
