Jumbo Shells Seafood Fancies(8 Servings)
Seafood-stuffed jumbo shells filled with crab, shrimp, cheese, and fresh vegetables, perfect for a sophisticated appetizer or main course for seafood lovers and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- 16 oz. uncooked jumbo-size pasta shells ⓘ
- 7 1/2 oz. can crabmeat, drained, flaked and cartilage removed ⓘ
- 2 1/2 oz. can tiny shrimp, drained
- 4 oz. shredded Swiss cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 cup salad dressing or mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons thinly sliced celery
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped onion ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped pimento ⓘ
Instructions
- Add shells gradually to 6 quarts of boiling salted water; cook until tender, yet firm.
- Drain; rinse with cold water, then drain again.
- Invert shells on paper towel-lined plate to cool.
- Combine crabmeat, shrimp, cheese, salad dressing, celery, onion, and pimento in a medium-sized bowl.
- If mixture seems too dry, add more salad dressing.
- Spoon mixture into cooled shells; cover and refrigerate until chilled.
- Garnish with celery leaves before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavors, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or Old Bay seasoning to the seafood mixture. For a twist, you can substitute the crabmeat with canned tuna or use a combination of different seafood. If you prefer a creamier filling, consider mixing in some cream cheese. Make sure not to overcook the shells; they should be al dente, as they'll continue to soften when filled.
Serving Suggestions
These Jumbo Shells Seafood Fancies make a delightful appetizer or main dish. Serve them on a bed of mixed greens for a fresh presentation or alongside a light lemon vinaigrette. They pair beautifully with Jerry's Crab Cakes or a crisp white wine. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of seasoned shrimp and rice, enhancing the seafood experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jumbo Shells Seafood Fancies(8 Servings) contains roughly 305 calories, with 17g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (40% of the Daily Value) and protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. At about 305 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these seafood fancies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the shells and the seafood filling a day in advance. Just assemble the filled shells and keep them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld nicely, making them even tastier.
What can I use instead of crabmeat?
If you don't have crabmeat, you can substitute it with cooked lobster, imitation crab, or even a mix of different seafood such as scallops or canned tuna for a different flavor profile. Just ensure any seafood used is well-drained.
Can I freeze these seafood shells?
While it's best to enjoy them fresh, you can freeze the filled shells. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat them in the oven for the best texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).