Looking to impress your guests or simply treat yourself to a luxurious meal? These Garlic Butter Lobster-Filled Jumbo Pasta Shells are the perfect answer. Juicy chunks of tender lobster meat are folded into a creamy garlic butter sauce and stuffed into al dente jumbo pasta shells, then gently baked to perfection. It’s the kind of dish that looks and tastes gourmet, but is surprisingly simple to prepare at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these mouthwatering lobster pasta shells, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1½ cups cooked lobster meat, chopped into bite-size pieces (fresh or thawed from frozen)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra richness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
- Optional: zest of half a lemon for brightness
Step-by-Step Instructions
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package directions until just al dente, about 10 minutes. Be careful not to overcook as the shells will continue cooking in the oven. Drain the shells and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set them aside on a towel to dry.
Next, prepare the garlic butter lobster filling. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one to two minutes until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the chopped lobster meat and cook for another two minutes to warm it through. Reduce the heat to low and mix in the softened cream cheese, stirring gently until fully combined and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest if using. Allow the filling to cool slightly to thicken before stuffing the shells.
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Using a spoon, gently stuff each pasta shell with the lobster mixture and place them in a greased baking dish. Arrange the filled shells snugly in a single layer.
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for fifteen to eighteen minutes, just enough to heat everything through and slightly crisp the edges of the shells.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley and a pinch of Parmesan if desired. Serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete, elegant meal.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven with a splash of water or cream to keep them moist. Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the lobster and cheese may change.
Pro Tips
Use good-quality lobster for best results. Fresh lobster is ideal, but thawed frozen lobster tails also work well as long as they are fully cooked and tender. Be careful not to overcook the pasta shells; slightly undercooked pasta will hold up better during baking. If you want extra sauce, try pouring a bit of heavy cream or a simple garlic cream sauce into the baking dish before placing the stuffed shells.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the lobster filling and stuff the shells a few hours in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.
What can I substitute for lobster? If you prefer a different seafood, cooked shrimp, crab, or scallops make excellent alternatives.
Can I make this dish more cheesy? Absolutely. Add shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese to the filling or sprinkle some on top before baking.
Is this kid-friendly? Yes, if your children enjoy seafood, they will love the creamy and buttery flavors in this dish.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Lobster-Filled Jumbo Pasta Shells are a restaurant-quality dish you can easily recreate in your own kitchen. They combine elegance, indulgence, and comfort all in one bite. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. For more gourmet-style recipes and cooking tips, be sure to visit our website and discover a world of delicious meal ideas.