Salmon Stuffed Shells
I recently discovered a new favorite recipe that I can’t stop making: salmon stuffed shells. This dish combines two of my favorite foods, pasta and salmon, into one delicious and satisfying meal. The shells are filled with a creamy mixture of salmon, ricotta cheese, and herbs, then baked to perfection with a layer of melted cheese on top.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can use canned or fresh salmon, and adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. It’s also a great way to sneak in some extra veggies, like spinach or roasted red peppers, by adding them to the filling. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your dinner guests.
What Is Salmon Stuffed Shells
Salmon stuffed shells is a delicious and healthy dish that combines pasta shells with a flavorful salmon filling. The dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
To make salmon stuffed shells, you will need cooked pasta shells, fresh or canned salmon, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. The salmon filling is made by mixing the salmon with the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. The mixture is then stuffed into the cooked pasta shells and baked in the oven until golden brown.
Salmon stuffed shells are a great way to enjoy the health benefits of salmon, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and other essential nutrients. The dish is also a good source of calcium from the Parmesan cheese and cream cheese.
In summary, salmon stuffed shells are a delicious and healthy dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its flavorful salmon filling and creamy cheese sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients for Salmon Stuffed Shells
To make delicious salmon stuffed shells, I will need the following ingredients:
- Jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound cooked salmon, flaked
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
I will start by cooking the pasta shells according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, I will mix the salmon, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Once the pasta is done, I will drain it and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process. Then, I will stuff each shell with the salmon mixture and place them in a baking dish.
Next, I will pour the marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. I will cover the dish with foil and bake it in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25 minutes.
After 25 minutes, I will remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
That’s it! With these simple ingredients, I can make a delicious and impressive meal that is sure to impress my guests.
Nutritional Benefits of Salmon Stuffed Shells
Salmon is a nutrient-dense food that is rich in vitamins and minerals, healthy fats, and high-quality protein. When combined with pasta shells, this dish becomes a complete meal that offers several nutritional benefits.
One of the most significant benefits of salmon stuffed shells is its high omega-3 content. Omega-3s are essential fatty acids that our bodies cannot produce, and we must obtain them from our diet. They are known to reduce inflammation, improve brain function, and support heart health.
Salmon is also an excellent source of vitamin D, which is essential for bone health and immune function. Just 3.5 ounces of salmon provides over 100% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin D.
Furthermore, salmon is a great source of vitamin B12, which is crucial for red blood cell formation and nerve function. It also contains selenium, a mineral that supports thyroid function and helps protect against oxidative stress.
By stuffing pasta shells with salmon, we are also adding complex carbohydrates to the dish, which can provide sustained energy and help keep us feeling full. Additionally, the dish can be made with whole wheat pasta shells, which offer more fiber and nutrients than traditional white pasta.
Overall, salmon stuffed shells are a delicious and nutritious meal that can provide several health benefits.
How To Make Salmon Stuffed Shells
I love making stuffed shells, and this recipe for salmon stuffed shells is one of my favorites. It’s a great way to switch up your usual pasta routine and get some healthy omega-3s in your diet. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 can (14.75 oz.) salmon, drained and flaked
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 jar (24 oz.) marinara sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 380°F.
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool them down.
- In a large bowl, combine the salmon, ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell with about 2 tablespoons of the salmon mixture. Place the stuffed shells in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure to cover them completely.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving.
That’s it! These salmon stuffed shells are a delicious and unique way to enjoy pasta and seafood. Give them a try and let me know what you think!
Salmon Stuffed Shells Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Oven
- 1 Pan
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 can 14.75 oz. salmon
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 jar 24 oz. marinara sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 380 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a skillet or pan. Add the chopped spinach and cook for about five minutes.
- Let the liquids dry up.
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in the salmon and parmesan cheese until combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside.
- Take the cooked pasta shells and stuff each one with the salmon mixture. Arrange them in a baking dish.
- Add Parmesan cheese to the top.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the shells are golden and heated through.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some variations of seafood stuffed shells?
Seafood stuffed shells can be made with a variety of seafood, including shrimp, crab, lobster, or a combination of these. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, and add in different herbs and spices to change up the flavor.
What are some good sides to serve with stuffed shells?
A simple salad or roasted vegetables make great side dishes to serve with stuffed shells. Garlic bread or crusty bread also pairs well with this dish.
Can you substitute crab for salmon in stuffed shells?
Yes, you can substitute crab for salmon in stuffed shells. The taste and texture will be different, but it will still be delicious. You can also use a combination of seafood, such as crab and shrimp, for a more complex flavor.
What is the best type of cheese to use in seafood stuffed shells?
Ricotta cheese is the most commonly used cheese in stuffed shells, but you can also use a combination of ricotta and shredded mozzarella. Parmesan cheese can also be added for extra flavor.
How do you make seafood stuffed shells with alfredo sauce?
To make seafood stuffed shells with alfredo sauce, simply prepare the stuffed shells as usual, but instead of tomato sauce, use alfredo sauce. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
What are some tips for making the perfect seafood stuffed shells?
Make sure to cook the pasta shells until they are al dente, or slightly undercooked, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Also, be sure to remove any excess moisture from the seafood before mixing it with the other ingredients to prevent the filling from becoming watery. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to find the flavor combination that works best for you.
