Absolutely! Hereβs a big, detailed, indulgent recipe for Garlic Butter Lobster-Filled Jumbo Pasta Shells π§π¦π§, complete with history, formation, lovers of the dish, method, and more. Letβs dive into this luxurious seafood pasta experience.
π§π¦π§ Garlic Butter Lobster-Filled Jumbo Pasta Shells π§π¦π§
A Decadent Seafood Pasta for Lovers of Rich Flavors
π Introduction:
This dish is a beautiful marriage between two culinary worlds β the elegant richness of lobster and the comforting heartiness of baked pasta. Itβs made for special dinners, romantic occasions, or whenever you want to impress someone you love (even if that person is yourself). Stuffed with tender lobster meat drenched in garlic butter and cheese, then baked under a golden crust β this is not just food. It’s a statement.
π A Brief History:
The idea of stuffed pasta originates from Italian cuisine β dishes like cannelloni, manicotti, and stuffed shells (conchiglioni) have long held a place in Italian kitchens. Meanwhile, lobster has been a symbol of luxury, particularly in coastal cuisines from New England to the Mediterranean.
Combining lobster with stuffed pasta is a modern culinary evolution β a fusion of Italian technique with the opulence of fine seafood, especially popular in upscale American kitchens.
π§π¦π§ Ingredients:
For the Lobster Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) cooked lobster meat, chopped (claws and tail preferred)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup mascarpone (or cream cheese)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
For the Pasta & Sauce:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Dash of nutmeg (optional)
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
π¨ Method & Formation:
1. Prepare the Pasta Shells
- Boil the jumbo shells in salted water until al dente (about 9β10 minutes).
- Drain and rinse under cold water. Toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Lobster Filling
- In a large skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- SautΓ© minced garlic and shallots until fragrant (2β3 minutes).
- Add the chopped lobster meat, season with salt & pepper, and toss gently. Add a splash of white wine and let it reduce for 1 minute.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, mascarpone, Parmesan, lemon juice, and parsley. Fold in the cooled lobster mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning.
3. Make the Creamy White Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter and sautΓ© garlic for 1 min.
- Add flour to make a roux. Whisk for 1β2 minutes.
- Slowly add warm milk, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened.
- Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan. Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Let the sauce simmer gently for 3β4 minutes, stirring often.
4. Assemble the Dish
- Preheat oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
- Spread a layer of the white sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Stuff each shell with the lobster filling and place into the dish.
- Pour remaining sauce over the top.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and broil for 3β5 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
π Lovers of This Dish:
This dish is beloved by:
- Seafood lovers who crave something elegant and buttery.
- Pasta fanatics looking to elevate their game.
- Couples on date nights wanting to cook together (and eat something unforgettable).
- Foodies on social media who appreciate a good cheese pull and aesthetic plating.
Itβs a go-to for birthdays, anniversaries, or just cozy fall and winter nights with a glass of white wine.
πͺ Tips & Twists:
- Substitute lobster with crab or shrimp if youβre on a budget.
- Add spinach to the filling for extra texture and nutrients.
- Use a tomato cream sauce instead of white for a different flavor profile.
- Want heat? Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.
π― Conclusion:
Garlic Butter Lobster-Filled Jumbo Pasta Shells is more than a meal β it’s a sensory experience. The aroma of garlic, the richness of lobster, the creaminess of cheese, the satisfaction of pasta β all baked to golden perfection. Itβs a dish for lovers: of food, of flavor, and of each other.
Whether you’re cooking for a romantic evening or simply to treat yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Would you like a printable version, a video tutorial, or a grocery shopping list for this recipe?