Meta Description: Learn how to make the best Seafood Manicotti with shrimp, crab, ricotta, mozzarella, and creamy Alfredo sauce. This easy baked Italian-inspired pasta recipe is perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
If you're looking for an elegant pasta dish that's packed with seafood flavor, Seafood Manicotti is an excellent choice. This comforting baked pasta features tender manicotti shells stuffed with a creamy mixture of shrimp, crab, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese, then topped with a velvety Alfredo sauce and baked until bubbly and golden.
Perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or cozy family meals, Seafood Manicotti combines classic Italian comfort food with the delicate sweetness of fresh seafood. Although it looks impressive, this recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare and can even be assembled ahead of time.
Why You'll Love This Seafood Manicotti
- Rich, creamy, and full of seafood flavor.
- Perfect for family dinners and entertaining.
- High in protein.
- Easy to prepare ahead of time.
- Freezer-friendly for convenient meals.
- Restaurant-quality results at home.
Ingredients
For the Manicotti
- 12 manicotti pasta shells
- Water for boiling
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Seafood Filling
- 8 ounces (225 g) shrimp, peeled, cooked, and chopped
- 8 ounces (225 g) lump crab meat
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Seafood Manicotti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the manicotti shells until just al dente according to the package directions.
Drain carefully and place the shells on a lightly oiled baking sheet to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Seafood Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Chopped shrimp
- Crab meat
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Egg
- Garlic
- Parsley
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper
Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Pour in the heavy cream and simmer gently for 4–5 minutes.
Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Season with black pepper and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
Step 4: Stuff the Manicotti
Using a piping bag or small spoon, carefully fill each cooked manicotti shell with the seafood mixture.
Arrange the filled shells in a lightly greased baking dish.
Step 5: Assemble
Pour the Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed manicotti.
Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake covered for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Allow the manicotti to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Tips
- Do not overcook the pasta shells before stuffing, as they will continue cooking in the oven.
- Pat cooked shrimp dry before chopping to prevent excess moisture in the filling.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than packaged cheese.
- Use a piping bag for easier filling.
- Let the baked manicotti rest before serving to help the filling set.
Approximate Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 2 stuffed manicotti (Recipe serves 6)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 620 kcal |
| Protein | 39 g |
| Carbohydrates | 36 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Total Sugars | 4 g |
| Total Fat | 35 g |
| Saturated Fat | 19 g |
| Cholesterol | 185 mg |
| Sodium | 960 mg |
| Potassium | 470 mg |
| Calcium | 480 mg |
| Iron | 3 mg |
| Vitamin A | 18% DV |
| Vitamin C | 6% DV |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Moderate |
Nutrition values are estimates and will vary depending on the ingredients and brands used.
What to Serve with Seafood Manicotti
This rich baked pasta pairs wonderfully with:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted asparagus
- Steamed broccoli
- Sautéed spinach
- Mixed green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
A light salad or roasted vegetables help balance the richness of the creamy filling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes. Thaw frozen shrimp and crab completely, then drain and pat them dry before preparing the filling.
Can I prepare Seafood Manicotti in advance?
Absolutely. Assemble the dish up to one day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if chilled.
Can I freeze Seafood Manicotti?
Yes. Freeze the assembled, unbaked manicotti in an airtight freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Can I use a tomato sauce instead of Alfredo?
Yes. A creamy marinara or tomato basil sauce also pairs beautifully with the seafood filling and offers a lighter flavor profile.
Health Benefits of Seafood Manicotti
Seafood Manicotti provides high-quality protein from shrimp and crab, while ricotta and mozzarella contribute calcium for healthy bones. Seafood is naturally rich in essential minerals such as selenium and iodine, and shrimp offers vitamin B12 to support energy metabolism. Pairing this dish with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables creates a balanced and satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
Seafood Manicotti is a delicious blend of tender pasta, creamy cheeses, and flavorful seafood baked under a rich Alfredo sauce. Every bite delivers a satisfying combination of textures and flavors, making it an ideal choice for both everyday meals and festive celebrations. Easy to prepare ahead and simple to customize, this elegant baked pasta is sure to become a favorite recipe in your home.
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