Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Shells Recipe

If you’re craving something that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve got to try this Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Shells Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of tender jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich, flavorful mixture of shrimp, spinach, and mushrooms, all brought together with creamy cheeses and a silky sauce. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this dish delivers comfort and elegance in every bite, and I can’t wait for you to make it your new favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Shells Recipe is simple but essential, combining fresh seafood, earthy mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and creamy cheeses to create layers of taste, texture, and color that will delight your senses.

• 12 oz jumbo pasta shells: Perfectly sized pasta to hold the delicious filling.
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Adds a sweet, succulent protein that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped: Brings a fresh, slightly sweet flavor and vibrant green color.
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced: Adds earthiness and a meaty texture for depth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing and adding a subtle richness.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Delivers a smooth, creamy texture that binds the filling.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers savory sharpness and umami kick.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Provides gooey, melty goodness on top and inside.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and silky.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle bite and warmth.
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick if you like a touch of heat.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Brings a fresh, bright note and beautiful color at the end.

How to Make Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Shells Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are perfectly al dente. This ensures they’ll hold up well when stuffed and baked, giving you that satisfying bite without turning mushy.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and gently sauté the minced garlic for about a minute. The aroma will fill your kitchen and form the flavorful base that makes this Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Shells Recipe truly comforting.

Step 3: Cook and Prepare the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Removing them from the heat and chopping roughly ensures each bite has tender, shrimp-packed deliciousness.

Step 4: Cook Mushrooms

In the same skillet, toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook them until they’re softened and releasing their natural juices. This step deepens the flavor and adds a gorgeous umami layer to your filling.

Step 5: Wilt the Spinach and Season

Next, add the chopped spinach and cook until it wilts, just about 2 minutes. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and if you like a slight heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, balancing the flavors perfectly.

Step 6: Combine Filling Ingredients

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cooked shrimp, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and half the mozzarella. This rich medley makes the filling creamy and irresistibly cheesy, setting your stuffed shells up for success.

Step 7: Stuff the Pasta Shells

Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the shrimp and spinach mixture, and arrange them neatly in a greased baking dish. This step is fun and rewarding—each stuffed shell is a tiny package of incredible flavor waiting to be baked.

Step 8: Add the Cream

Gently pour the heavy cream evenly over the stuffed shells. This luscious cream will bubble up and soak into the pasta as it bakes, making every bite creamy and rich.

Step 9: Top with Mozzarella

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the shells. As it melts, it creates a golden, bubbly crust that’s simply irresistible.

Step 10: Bake Until Golden

Bake the dish uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. This final touch transforms your dish into a warm, comforting masterpiece that’s ready to wow your family or guests.

Step 11: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness that brightens the creamy, cheesy flavors.

How to Serve Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Shells Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley is my go-to garnish for this dish; it adds a lovely green hue and a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the creamy filling. You can also try a little extra grated Parmesan or a light drizzle of good quality olive oil for added shine and flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair your Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Shells Recipe with a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans also complement this meal beautifully, keeping things light and fresh alongside the creamy pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the stuffed shells individually on pretty plates, drizzling extra warm cream sauce around them for an elegant touch. Alternatively, layer the shells in a large casserole dish for a cozy family-style presentation that encourages everyone to dig in and share the love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Shells Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully after resting, making leftovers even more delicious.

Freezing

This dish freezes wonderfully! Just assemble as usual but don’t bake. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, bake straight from frozen, adjusting the time to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly.

Reheating

To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave, but the oven keeps that perfect baked texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture of the filling.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the shrimp and increase the mushrooms or add other veggies like zucchini or artichokes for a delicious vegetarian version of this creamy pasta shell dish.

What type of pasta shells should I use?

Jumbo pasta shells are best for stuffing because they’re the perfect size for holding the filling and baking well without falling apart.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

You can prepare the shrimp, spinach, and mushroom filling up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and stuff the shells just before baking for best results.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a little melted butter, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich and creamy as with heavy cream.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Stuffed Pasta Shells Recipe is one of those dishes that always impresses, whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends. It’s cozy, elegant, and packed with flavor that feels like a celebration on your dinner plate. Give it a try—you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again!

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