Stuffed Crab Shells
Creamy, cheesy stuffed crab shells loaded with imitation crab meat and mozzarella offer a flavorful seafood appetizer or main course, perfect for entertaining or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the jumbo shells as directed on the package.
- Allow the shells to cool and set aside.
- Mix all other ingredients together in a bowl.
- Fill each cooked shell with the mixture.
- Place filled shells into a 9 x 13-inch pan and bake as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped green onions or bell peppers to the filling. If you don’t have imitation crab meat, real crab or even shrimp can be excellent substitutions. You can also use ricotta cheese instead of cream cheese for a lighter texture. Ensure the shells are not overcooked, as they can break when filling. This dish pairs beautifully with Sourdough Bread Bowl Dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed crab shells with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A light garlic butter sauce drizzled over the shells enhances the flavors. This dish also pairs well with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea. For a fun appetizer, consider serving them alongside Cheesy Crab Rolls.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed crab shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will help retain the texture of the shells.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Crab Shells contains roughly 3194 calories, with 83g protein, 413g carbohydrates, and 145g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (167% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (152% of the Daily Value), and calcium (146% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1261mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
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 stuffed crab shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. This makes for a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
What can I use as a gluten-free alternative for the shells?
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free pasta shells or even zucchini boats. Zucchini halves can be baked until tender and then filled with the crab mixture, making a delicious alternative while keeping the flavors intact.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can create a vegetarian version by omitting the crab meat and adding diced vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or artichokes to the cheese mixture. This maintains a deliciously creamy filling while catering to vegetarian diets.
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).