Stuffed Shells With Crab Meat And Ricotta Cheese
Are you looking for a delicious and easy recipe to impress your guests or simply treat yourself to a cozy dinner? Look no further than stuffed shells with crab meat and ricotta cheese! This exquisite dish combines the flavors of the sea with the creaminess of cheese and the texture of pasta, resulting in a mouth-watering and visually stunning meal. In this article, we will guide you through the ingredients, preparation, and serving of stuffed shells with crab meat and ricotta cheese, while also sharing tips and variations to customize the recipe according to your preferences.
Ingredients
The first step to making stuffed shells with crab meat and ricotta cheese is to gather the necessary ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 box of jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound of crab meat, either fresh or canned
- 2 cups of ricotta cheese
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 jar of marinara sauce
You can find most of these ingredients at your local grocery store. If you can't find fresh crab meat, canned crab meat can be a good alternative that is easier to handle and still tastes great in this recipe. When choosing the pasta shells, make sure to look for jumbo size ones that can hold the filling without breaking. As for the marinara sauce, you can either make your own or buy a jar of your favorite brand.
Preparation
Now that you have all the ingredients, it's time to prepare the stuffed shells with crab meat and ricotta cheese:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente, meaning still slightly firm. Drain the water and set the shells aside to cool down.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the crab meat and stir gently to avoid breaking it.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
- Using a spoon or your fingers, stuff each pasta shell with a generous amount of the crab and cheese mixture. Place the shells in the baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells, covering them completely.
- Bake the stuffed shells in the oven for about 30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley, if desired.
That's it! Your stuffed shells with crab meat and ricotta cheese are ready to be enjoyed. This recipe should yield about 20 stuffed shells, depending on their size and how much filling you put in each one. You can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for later use.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to make your stuffed shells with crab meat and ricotta cheese even more delicious:
- Try adding other seafood ingredients to the filling, such as shrimp, lobster, or scallops.
- Replace the marinara sauce with a white sauce, such as Alfredo or Béchamel, for a creamier texture.
- Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, fontina, or goat cheese, to add more flavor and richness.
- Serve the stuffed shells with a side salad, garlic bread, or a glass of white wine for a complete meal.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes, to customize the taste according to your liking.
Conclusion
Stuffed shells with crab meat and ricotta cheese are a perfect dish for any occasion, whether you're cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or simply indulging in a comfort food craving. With only a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a gourmet-level meal that will impress everyone. We hope you enjoy making and eating this recipe as much as we do!
