Lobster-stuffed Shells Delight

Name: Lobster-stuffed Shells Delight
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 1 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Treats & Confections

I absolutely adore the combination of flavors in these Lobster-stuffed Shells Delight. Every time I make them, I'm reminded of a cozy coastal restaurant where I first experienced the magic of lobster in pasta. The creamy filling with tender lobster and a hint of garlic transforms ordinary shell pasta into a luxurious meal that's perfect for any occasion. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to prepare, making them a go-to for dinner parties or a special family meal that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-22T11:02:28.171Z

When I first experimented with lobster in stuffed shells, I didn't realize how wonderfully the sweet, rich meat would pair with a creamy cheese filling. At first, I was nervous about the preparation, but by sautéing garlic and shallots in butter before mixing in the lobster, I discovered a depth of flavor that transformed the dish. It’s also helpful to use fresh herbs to elevate the taste further.

What makes these shells truly special is the crunchy topping of breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, creating a delightful contrast with the soft pasta. Each bite is a perfect balance of textures, and I can't help but feel like I’m indulging in something truly gourmet, even on a weekday!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent lobster flavor combined with rich cheese filling
Comfort food with an elegant twist for special occasions
Perfectly baked with a crisp topping for added texture

Perfecting the Filling

The filling for these lobster-stuffed shells is where the magic truly happens. The combination of ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella offers a rich, creamy texture that complements the sweetness of the lobster. When mixing the cheeses, aim for a smooth consistency to ensure even stuffing. This can be achieved by using room-temperature cheese, which blends more easily than cold cheese straight from the fridge. Additionally, including chopped fresh parsley adds a hint of freshness that beautifully balances the richness of the dish.

Don’t skimp on seasoning; the seasoning is essential to enhance the flavors of your filling. Start with a pinch of salt and pepper, then taste and adjust as needed. If you want to bring a bit of heat, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This subtle kick will elevate the dish without overpowering the delicate flavor of the lobster. Remember to fold the ingredients gently, to preserve that luxurious texture.

Baking to Perfection

Baking this dish correctly is crucial to achieving a delightful texture contrast. When you cover the dish with foil initially, it helps to steam the shells, keeping them moist. However, the final uncovered bake allows the breadcrumbs to crisp up beautifully, creating a perfect contrast with the creamy filling. Watch for the top to turn golden brown and bubbly; this usually takes about 10 minutes of uncovered baking at 350°F (175°C). If you find that the top isn't browning as quickly as desired, a quick broil for 1-2 minutes at the end can achieve that golden finish.

If you’d like to make this ahead for a dinner party, you can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, then cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to a day. Just remember to increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes if starting from cold, and keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for the Lobster-stuffed Shells Delight:

Ingredients

12 large pasta shells
1 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup marinara sauce
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Ensure all ingredients are prepared before starting the cooking process to make it easier to assemble the dish.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Lobster-stuffed Shells Delight:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Then, add the chopped lobster meat and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in ricotta, Parmesan, mozzarella, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Fill the Shells

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Stuff each cooked shell with the lobster filling and arrange them in a greased baking dish.

Add the Sauce

Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with breadcrumbs and additional Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors settle.

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the filling mixture. Additionally, you can top the dish with fresh herbs before serving for an aromatic touch.

Serving Suggestions

These lobster-stuffed shells make for a sophisticated main course, but pairing them with a simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette can enhance the dining experience. The peppery greens and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta. For a crowd-pleasing appetizer, consider serving smaller portions of the stuffed shells baked in individual ramekins, allowing guests to enjoy their own mini versions.

To elevate your presentation, garnish each serving with a sprinkle of extra parsley and a zest of lemon. This will not only add a burst of color but will also enhance the aroma and flavors at the table.

Ingredient Variations

If lobster isn't available, feel free to substitute with shrimp or crab meat for a similar luxurious feel. Keep in mind that the cooking time might slightly differ; shrimp generally cooks faster and should be added to the skillet only until they turn pink and opaque. For a vegetarian version, consider using sautéed mushrooms and spinach instead of seafood, ensuring to adjust the seasonings to suit the earthy flavors.

For those seeking to lighten the dish, opting for low-fat ricotta or a blend of cottage cheese can still yield a creamy filling without the extra calories. Just be cautious of excess moisture, as this adjustment can slightly alter texture; drain the cheese well before mixing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen lobster?

Yes, you can use frozen lobster, just ensure it is thawed and well-drained before adding it to the filling.

→ What if I don't have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs can be a suitable alternative; just use about a third of the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.

→ Can I prepare these shells in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the shells a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

A simple green salad and garlic bread are delicious accompaniments to balance out the richness of the stuffed shells.