A Dreamy Romantic Dinner
If you’re searching for the perfect date-night dish, Lobster Stuffed Pasta Shells for Two is an irresistible choice. These jumbo pasta shells are brimming with tender lobster meat, creamy ricotta, fragrant herbs, and a touch of lemon zest, creating a luxurious yet comforting seafood masterpiece.
Fresh lobster elevates this meal to restaurant-level quality, but you can still keep it accessible and easy to make. For the best seafood choices, check out sustainable lobster sourcing so you can feel good about what’s on your plate.
While handling lobster and other shellfish, be sure to practice proper food safety. The USDA seafood handling guidelines can help you prevent mishaps and ensure your dish is as safe as it is delicious.
🛒 Ingredients
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Jumbo pasta shells 🍝
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Cooked lobster meat 🦞
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Ricotta cheese 🧀
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Shredded mozzarella 🧀
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Grated parmesan 🧀
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Fresh parsley 🌿
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Fresh basil 🌿
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Garlic cloves 🧄
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Lemon zest 🍋
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Shallot 🧅
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Olive oil 🫒
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Salt 🧂
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Black pepper ⚫
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Heavy cream 🥛
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Tomato puree 🍅
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White wine 🍷
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Red pepper flakes 🌶️ (optional)
👩🍳 Preparation Method
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Cook the pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Rinse gently with cool water and set aside.
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In a skillet, sauté the shallot and garlic in olive oil until soft and fragrant.
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Add chopped lobster meat with a splash of white wine; simmer for 2–3 minutes.
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In a bowl, combine the lobster mixture with ricotta, shredded mozzarella, parmesan, lemon zest, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper.
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In another pan, warm together tomato puree, heavy cream, olive oil, and optional red pepper flakes to create a creamy sauce.
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Pour a layer of sauce into a baking dish. Stuff each shell with the lobster filling and arrange in the dish.
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Top with more sauce and sprinkle with extra mozzarella and parmesan.
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Bake at 180 °C (350 °F) for 20 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
💡 Tips and Tricks
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Cook pasta shells until just al dente so they hold together.
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Use freshly cooked lobster whenever possible for sweeter flavor.
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Gently fold the filling to keep the lobster meat chunky.
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Pair with a crisp white wine—if you need ideas, explore Wine Folly for perfect seafood pairings.
✨ Variations and Substitutions
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Swap lobster for crab or shrimp for a twist.
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Try gluten-free jumbo shells to accommodate dietary needs.
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Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for more nutrition.
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Spice lovers can add a pinch of cayenne or a swirl of sriracha.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve these lobster stuffed pasta shells on a white plate with a garnish of fresh basil or parsley.
A simple green salad with a bright lemon vinaigrette plus crusty bread makes a wonderful pairing.
For even more seafood comfort food, check out this Irresistible Shrimp and Grits recipe you might love.
❓ FAQs
Can I use canned lobster meat?
Yes, but fresh lobster tastes richer and more succulent.
How do I keep shells from breaking?
Cook them al dente and rinse under cool water to stop them from softening too much.
What is the best sauce to use?
A tomato cream or lemon butter sauce works beautifully with lobster.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, you can assemble it up to 24 hours before baking.
How long does it last?
Leftovers stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days in a sealed container.
❤️ Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like Lobster Stuffed Pasta Shells for Two to impress your sweetheart with a restaurant-quality meal at home. This decadent, creamy seafood dish sets the mood for a cozy evening filled with laughter and joy.
Share your cooking experience in the comments, and don’t forget to pass along this romantic recipe to fellow seafood lovers! 🦞🍝💖