Cheesy Shrimp Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Prep Time: 20 minutesCook Time: 35 minutesTotal Time: 55 minutesServings: 4 servingsCuisine: Italian-AmericanCourse: Dinner, Main CourseDifficulty: EasyIngredients18–20 jumbo pasta shells1 tablespoon butter3 cloves garlic, minced10 ounces cooked shrimp, chopped1 cup ricotta cheese1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping½ cup grated Parmesan cheese1 egg (optional, for binding)2 cups Alfredo sauceSalt, to tasteBlack pepper, to tastePinch of red pepper flakes (optional)2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnishInstructionsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.Cook the jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, rinse briefly with cool water, and set aside.Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes. Remove from the heat.In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg (if using), cooked shrimp mixture, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Mix until well combined.Spread about ½ cup of Alfredo sauce over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.Spoon the shrimp and cheese mixture into each pasta shell and arrange them in a single layer in the baking dish.Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.Sprinkle additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes.Remove the foil and continue baking for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.Recipe TipsCook the pasta shells just until al dente to prevent tearing.Don't overcook the shrimp—they'll finish cooking in the oven.Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly and adds better flavor.Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving for easier portions.VariationsAdd chopped spinach to the filling for extra vegetables.Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over the shrimp for a spicy version.Mix in lump crab meat or cooked lobster for a deluxe seafood twist.Add crispy bacon for smoky flavor.Substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if preferred.