An Elegant, Creamy Pasta Dish for Special Nights
Looking to impress with a next-level dinner? These Garlic Butter Lobster-Filled Jumbo Pasta Shells are rich, creamy, and irresistibly indulgent. With tender pasta stuffed with buttery lobster and finished in a garlicky cream sauce, this dish is perfect for date nights, celebrations, or anytime you want to treat yourself.
Ingredients
For the Shells:
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ¼ cup ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For the Garlic Butter Cream Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
Cook jumbo shells in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, rinse under cool water, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Lobster Filling
In a pan, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add 1 clove minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add chopped lobster meat and sauté for 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in ricotta, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and well combined.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Cream Sauce
In a saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add remaining garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream, bring to a simmer, then stir in Parmesan. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spoon lobster filling into each pasta shell and arrange in a buttered baking dish. Pour garlic butter sauce over the stuffed shells.
Step 5: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Uncover and broil for 2–3 minutes until the top is golden (optional).
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan before serving. Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for the full experience.
Tips for Success
- Lobster shortcut: Use pre-cooked lobster tails or claw meat from the seafood counter.
- Can’t find jumbo shells? Substitute with manicotti or layer the filling and sauce lasagna-style.
- Add a crunch: Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crispy finish.
Serve This When You Want To Impress
This dish brings restaurant-level indulgence to your home kitchen. Creamy, rich, and comforting with every bite, it’s ideal for anniversaries, special dinners, or impressing guests.
Want more gourmet-style comfort food like this? Don’t forget to check out our eBook 60 Mouthwatering American Dishes Made Simple, packed with elegant-yet-easy recipes!
