Garlic Butter Lobster-Filled Jumbo Pasta Shells

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Garlic Butter Lobster-Filled Jumbo Pasta Shells

Introduction

Garlic Butter Lobster-Filled Jumbo Pasta Shells is a luxurious and decadent dish that combines the elegance of lobster with the heartiness of baked pasta. This recipe takes classic stuffed shells to new heights, replacing the traditional ricotta filling with a creamy, garlicky lobster mixture enriched with cheese, herbs, and butter. It’s the kind of meal that shines at special occasions—romantic dinners, family celebrations, or holiday feasts. The combination of tender pasta, rich garlic butter sauce, and sweet lobster meat makes this dish unforgettable.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Shells

  • 16–20 jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (to prevent sticking)

For the Garlic Butter Lobster Filling

  • 2 cups cooked lobster meat, chopped (tail and claw meat preferred)
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small shallot, finely minced
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • ½ cup mascarpone or cream cheese
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Sauce

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1½ cups heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken stock (or lobster stock if available)
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Zest of ½ lemon
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions / Methods

Method 1: Oven-Baked Version (Classic)

  1. Cook the Pasta Shells
    • Boil jumbo shells in salted water until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
  2. Make the Lobster Filling
    • In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and shallot, sauté until fragrant.
    • Stir in lobster meat, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
    • Remove from heat and mix with ricotta, mascarpone, Parmesan, and half the mozzarella. Adjust seasoning.
  3. Stuff the Shells
    • Gently fill each pasta shell with the lobster mixture. Place shells in a greased baking dish.
  4. Prepare the Sauce
    • In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic. Stir in cream and stock.
    • Simmer 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Add Parmesan, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
    • Pour sauce evenly over stuffed shells. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top.
  5. Bake
    • Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake 10–15 minutes more until golden and bubbly.
  6. Serve
    • Garnish with parsley or basil. Serve hot with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

Method 2: Skillet Style (Quick Stovetop)

  • Instead of baking, place filled shells directly into a large skillet with the sauce.
  • Cover and simmer for 10–15 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
  • This method is faster and keeps the pasta creamier.

History

Stuffed pasta shells trace their roots to Italy, particularly to southern regions where pasta ripiena (stuffed pasta) was developed. Traditionally, shells were filled with ricotta, spinach, or meats. The modern twist of stuffing shells with seafood—particularly lobster—is an American-Italian creation born out of combining Italian comfort with New England’s love for lobster. Over the last few decades, lobster-stuffed shells have become a luxury dish for dinner parties and upscale gatherings, marrying rustic tradition with refined flavor.

Benefits

  1. Rich in Protein: Lobster provides lean protein and essential minerals like zinc and selenium.
  2. Omega-3 Source: Supports heart and brain health.
  3. Elegant Meal: Perfect for special occasions without being overly complicated.
  4. Versatile: Works as a main course or a show-stopping appetizer.
  5. Comfort Meets Luxury: Blends the coziness of baked pasta with the indulgence of lobster.

Formation (Cooking Science)

  • Garlic Butter + Lobster: Enhances the sweet, delicate flavor of lobster without overpowering it.
  • Ricotta & Mascarpone: Create a creamy texture that binds lobster into the shells.
  • Parmesan in Sauce: Thickens the cream while adding nutty depth.
  • Baking Step: Fuses pasta, filling, and sauce into one cohesive dish, while browning the cheese topping for irresistible flavor.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Lobster-Filled Jumbo Pasta Shells is a dish that blends rustic Italian comfort with elegant seafood sophistication. Each bite delivers tender pasta, creamy cheese, and luxurious lobster in a velvety garlic butter sauce. It’s an impressive dish for guests, yet approachable enough for home cooks.

Lovers of This Dish

  • Seafood Enthusiasts: Love the richness of lobster.
  • Romantics: Perfect for Valentine’s Day or anniversary dinners.
  • Foodies: Appreciate the blend of Italian and American coastal cuisine.
  • Families: A special dish for holiday gatherings.
  • Entertainers: Guaranteed to wow dinner party guests.

Final Conclusion with Lovers

This dish is the epitome of elevated comfort food. It’s adored by seafood lovers, couples seeking a romantic meal, and families wanting to celebrate in style. With its creamy, cheesy, garlicky lobster filling wrapped in tender pasta, it brings together tradition, luxury, and love in one unforgettable casserole.

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