Salmon Stuffed Shells Recipe – Easy & Healthy Dinner

Salmon Stuffed Shells Recipe That Will Impress Every Seafood Lover

Looking for a recipe that’s fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? Introducing salmon stuffed shells—a delightful twist on the classic stuffed shell dish. These creamy, seafood-stuffed pasta shells are perfect for healthy eaters, seafood lovers, or anyone in search of a quick and satisfying dinner.

Whether you’re hosting guests, feeding your family, or just treating yourself to something special, this recipe combines rich salmon, tender pasta, and a creamy, cheesy filling that hits all the right notes. Bonus? You can easily make this dish healthier with small swaps, making it an all-round crowd-pleaser. Dive into this irresistibly indulgent yet surprisingly nutritious dish! 

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Ingredients for Salmon Stuffed Shells

Here’s everything you’ll need to recreate these flavor-packed stuffed shells at home:

For the Shells & Filling: 

• 20 jumbo pasta shells (or a gluten-free alternative) 
• 8 oz cooked salmon, flaked (fresh, canned, or smoked works well) 
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese for a lighter option) 
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 
• 1 egg 
• 1 tsp garlic powder 
• 1 tsp dried dill (optional, for a herby kick) 
• 1/2 tsp salt 
• 1/4 tsp black pepper 

For the Sauce: 

• 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (or a creamy Alfredo sauce for a richer flavor) 
• 1/4 cup cream or milk (optional, to thin out the sauce if desired) 

Optional Add-ins: 

• 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped 
• 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes 

Ingredient Swaps 

• Gluten-Free Pasta: Look for jumbo gluten-free pasta shells in specialty grocery stores. 
• Cheese-Free Option: Try a dairy-free ricotta alternative and skip the mozzarella. 
• Salmon Substitution: Swap salmon for cooked shrimp or tofu crumbles for a unique twist. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Salmon Stuffed Shells

1. Cook the Pasta Shells 

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells until just al dente (following the time on the package). 
• Once done, drain and rinse the shells under cool water to stop the cooking process. (Pro tip: Add a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking!) 

2. Prepare the Filling 

• While the shells are cooking, mix the filling ingredients in a large bowl. Combine cooked salmon, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, dill, salt, and black pepper. Add optional spinach or sun-dried tomatoes if you’d like more texture and flavor. 

3. Stuff the Shells 

• Using a spoon (or your hands—no judgment here!), gently stuff each shell with the creamy salmon filling. Be generous, but make sure you don’t overfill to prevent spillage.

4. Assemble the Dish 

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread about 1 cup of marinara or Alfredo sauce evenly across the bottom of a large baking dish. 
• Arrange the stuffed shells on top of the sauce in a single layer, open side up. 

5. Add the Sauce and Cheese 

• Pour the remaining sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring each is coated. Sprinkle extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top for that golden, bubbly finish.

6. Bake to Perfection 

• Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. 

7. Serve Hot & Enjoy! 

• Garnish with fresh parsley or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve warm for the best flavors! 

Read More: Top 6 Salmon Dinner Recipes You’ll Love

Expert Tips for the Perfect Salmon Stuffed Shells

• Perfectly Cooked Shells: Slightly undercook the pasta shells; they’ll continue cooking in the oven. 
• Keep the Filling Moist: Don’t skimp on ricotta cheese; it’s key for a creamy filling. 
• Even Baking: Use foil for the first part of baking to trap moisture and finish uncovered for bubbling golden cheese. 

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Fun Variations

• Spinach & Salmon Combo: Add some sautéed spinach to the filling for a pop of greenery. 
• Cheese Lovers’ Delight: Mix in Gouda or Fontina for an ultra-luxurious flavor. 
• Zesty Upgrade: Add lemon zest to the filling to brighten the overall dish. 
• Smoky Twist: Try hot-smoked salmon for a bold, smoky profile. 

What to Serve with Salmon Stuffed Shells

Pair your stuffed shells with light and refreshing sides to balance the richness of the dish. Here are a few suggestions: 

• Crisp Green Salad: Toss romaine, cucumber, and avocado with a light vinaigrette. 
• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is always a win. 
• Steamed Veggies: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans are tasty and nutritious. 
• White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay is the perfect pairing. 

Time to Get Cooking!

With its tender pasta shells, creamy cheese, and flavorful salmon filling, this dish has everything you need for a satisfying and healthy seafood dinner. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions alike, salmon stuffed shells are sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. 

Why not try it tonight? And if you do, we’d love to see your creations! Snap a photo and tag us on Instagram using #SeafoodStuffedShells or leave a comment below to share your experience and any fun variations you’ve tried. 

Happy cooking and bon appétit! 

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