Here’s your detailed recipe topic for Garlic Butter Lobster-Filled Jumbo Pasta Shells:
Introduction
Garlic butter lobster-filled jumbo pasta shells are a luxurious and comforting dish, perfect for special occasions or an elegant dinner at home. The tender pasta shells are stuffed with creamy lobster filling, baked in a rich garlic butter cream sauce, and finished with fresh herbs. It’s a restaurant-worthy meal made right in your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Filling
1 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped
½ cup ricotta cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Zest of ½ lemon (optional for brightness)
For the Pasta & Sauce
12 jumbo pasta shells
2 tablespoons butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1cup heavy cream
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Begin by cooking the jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water until just al dente, then rinse them gently and set aside. Mix together the lobster meat, ricotta, Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to create the creamy filling. For the sauce, melt butter in a skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant, then stir in heavy cream and Parmesan, seasoning to taste. Stuff each shell with the lobster mixture, place them in a baking dish, pour the garlic butter cream sauce on top, and bake until heated through and slightly golden. Finish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
How to Make
Start by preparing the shells and filling. The pasta shells should be firm enough to hold the filling without tearing. Combine the lobster with cheeses and herbs to create a creamy, savory mixture. For the sauce, allow the butter and garlic to infuse together before adding cream and Parmesan, creating a velvety texture. Once the shells are stuffed, baking them in the sauce lets all the flavors meld into a rich, indulgent dish.
Variations
- Seafood Twist: Replace lobster with crab meat or shrimp for a different seafood flavor.
- Cheese Lovers: Add cream cheese or mascarpone to the filling for extra creaminess.
- Lightened-Up Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and part-skim ricotta.
- Herb Upgrade: Swap parsley for dill or tarragon to complement the seafood.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for gentle heat.
Tips
- Cook pasta just to al dente so it doesn’t become mushy after baking.
- Chop lobster into small pieces for even distribution in the filling.
- Taste the filling before stuffing to adjust seasoning to your liking.
- Cover with foil while baking to keep the shells moist, then uncover to get a light golden top.
- Let the dish rest for a couple of minutes before serving to allow the sauce to settle.
Conclusion
Garlic butter lobster-filled jumbo pasta shells are the perfect blend of elegance and comfort, bringing together tender pasta, creamy lobster filling, and a rich garlic butter cream sauce. With simple steps and a touch of creativity, you can enjoy a gourmet meal that impresses family and guests alike.