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Seafood Cannelloni
Seafood Pasta

Seafood Cannelloni

Prep20 min
Cook25 min
Total45 min
Serves4
Seafood Cannelloni
Fresh seafood cannelloni with a golden crust

As a coastal home cook, I've always been drawn to the simplicity and elegance of seafood cannelloni. This dish is a staple in my household, and I'm excited to share my recipe with you. With its combination of tender seafood, rich sauce, and creamy cheese, it's the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening.

One of the things I love about seafood cannelloni is its versatility. You can use a variety of seafood, such as shrimp, scallops, and fish, and customize the dish to your taste. In this recipe, I'll be using a combination of shrimp, scallops, and cod, but feel free to experiment with different types of seafood.

The key to making great seafood cannelloni is to use high-quality ingredients and to not overcook the seafood. You want the seafood to be tender and moist, with a delicate flavor that's enhanced by the sauce and cheese. To achieve this, I'll be using a combination of sautéing and baking, which will help to lock in the flavors and textures of the seafood.

In this recipe, I'll be guiding you through the process of making seafood cannelloni from scratch. We'll start with the pasta, then move on to the seafood and sauce, and finally, we'll assemble and bake the dish. Don't worry if you're new to cooking seafood – this recipe is easy to follow, and I'll be providing plenty of tips and tricks along the way.

So, let's get started! With its rich flavors and comforting texture, seafood cannelloni is the perfect dish for a special occasion or a cozy night in with the family. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking for a new recipe to try, I hope you'll enjoy this dish as much as I do.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • This recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients.
  • The dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in with the family.
  • The combination of seafood, sauce, and cheese makes for a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
  • The recipe is customizable, so you can use your favorite types of seafood and cheese.
  • The dish is relatively quick to make, with a total cooking time of about 30-40 minutes.
  • The recipe makes 4-6 servings, making it perfect for a small gathering or dinner party.
  • The dish can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great seafood cannelloni is to use a combination of high-quality ingredients and careful cooking techniques. By sautéing the seafood in a hot pan with some oil and garlic, we'll be able to lock in the flavors and textures of the seafood. Then, by baking the dish in the oven with a rich and creamy sauce, we'll be able to add depth and complexity to the dish.

Another important factor in making great seafood cannelloni is to not overcook the seafood. This is why we'll be using a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the seafood, which should reach 145 F (63 C) for optimal doneness. By cooking the seafood to the right temperature, we'll be able to ensure that it's tender and moist, with a delicate flavor that's enhanced by the sauce and cheese.

Finally, the type of pasta we use is also important. In this recipe, we'll be using cannelloni tubes, which are specifically designed for stuffing and baking. These tubes have a smooth texture and a gentle curve, which makes them perfect for holding the seafood and sauce.

Overall, the combination of high-quality ingredients, careful cooking techniques, and attention to detail is what makes this seafood cannelloni recipe so special. By following these tips and tricks, you'll be able to create a dish that's not only delicious but also visually appealing and satisfying to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this seafood cannelloni recipe, you'll need a few key ingredients, including cannelloni tubes, seafood, and cheese. You'll also need some basic pantry staples, such as olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Don't worry if you don't have all of these ingredients on hand – you can easily find them at your local grocery store or substitute them with similar ingredients.

When shopping for the ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality seafood that's fresh and sustainable. You'll also want to select a good-quality cheese that melts well and has a rich, creamy flavor. Some other tips for shopping for ingredients include buying in season, shopping at local markets, and reading labels carefully to avoid added preservatives and artificial ingredients.

  • 12 cannelloni tubesLook for high-quality cannelloni tubes that are made from durum wheat semolina and have a smooth texture. You can find these at most Italian markets or online.
  • 1 lb (450g) mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, cod)Choose a mix of seafood that's fresh and sustainable. You can also customize the seafood to your taste, using your favorite types of fish and shellfish.
  • 2 tbsp (30g) olive oilUse a high-quality olive oil that's rich in flavor and has a smooth texture. You can also use other types of oil, such as avocado oil or grapeseed oil, if you prefer.
  • 4 cloves garlic, mincedUse fresh garlic for the best flavor. You can also use jarred garlic or garlic powder if you prefer, but be sure to adjust the amount according to the package instructions.
  • 1 cup (250g) grated mozzarella cheeseChoose a high-quality mozzarella cheese that's made from whole milk and has a rich, creamy flavor. You can also use other types of cheese, such as parmesan or ricotta, if you prefer.
  • 1/2 cup (125g) grated parmesan cheeseUse a high-quality parmesan cheese that's aged for at least 12 months. You can also use other types of cheese, such as asiago or romano, if you prefer.
  • 1 cup (250g) marinara sauceMake your own marinara sauce using canned tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil, or use a high-quality store-bought sauce. Be sure to choose a sauce that's low in added sugars and preservatives.
  • 1 tsp (5g) dried basilUse fresh or dried basil for the best flavor. You can also use other herbs, such as oregano or thyme, if you prefer.
  • 1 tsp (5g) dried oreganoUse fresh or dried oregano for the best flavor. You can also use other herbs, such as basil or thyme, if you prefer.
  • Salt and pepper to tasteUse high-quality salt and pepper for the best flavor. You can also use other seasonings, such as lemon zest or red pepper flakes, if you prefer.
  • 2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh parsleyUse fresh parsley for the best flavor and texture. You can also use other herbs, such as basil or oregano, if you prefer.
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedgesUse a fresh lemon for the best flavor. You can also use other types of citrus, such as lime or orange, if you prefer.
Ingredients for Seafood Cannelloni

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or sauté panInstant-read thermometerCannelloni tube filler or piping bagBaking dish (9x13 inch)Cheese graterMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Seafood Cannelloni

  1. 1
    Preheat your oven to 375 F (190 C).
  2. 2
    Cook the cannelloni tubes according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves boiling them in salted water for 3-5 minutes, then draining and rinsing them with cold water.
  3. 3
    In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
  4. 4
    Add the mixed seafood to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until it's lightly browned and cooked through. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning.
  5. 5
    Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the marinara sauce, basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. 6
    In a large bowl, combine the cooked seafood mixture, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine.
  7. 7
    Stuff each cannelloni tube with the seafood mixture, using a cannelloni tube filler or piping bag. Place the stuffed tubes in a baking dish (9x13 inch).
  8. 8
    Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. 9
    Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the top is lightly browned.
  10. 10
    Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the cheese to set and the flavors to meld together.
  11. 11
    Serve the seafood cannelloni hot, garnished with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. Be sure to check the internal temperature of the seafood, which should reach 145 F (63 C) for optimal doneness.

Expert Tips

  • Use high-quality ingredients, including fresh seafood and real cheese, for the best flavor and texture.
  • Don't overcook the seafood, as this can make it tough and dry.
  • Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the seafood, which should reach 145 F (63 C) for optimal doneness.
  • Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, as this will help the cheese to set and the flavors to meld together.
  • Experiment with different types of seafood and cheese to find your favorite combination.
  • Consider making the dish ahead of time and refrigerating or freezing it for later use.
  • Use a variety of herbs and spices to add depth and complexity to the dish.
  • Don't be afraid to get creative and add your own favorite ingredients to the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcooking the seafood, which can make it tough and dry.
  • Using low-quality ingredients, such as frozen seafood or artificial cheese, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
  • Not letting the dish rest before serving, which can cause the cheese to be runny and the flavors to be unbalanced.
  • Not using a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the seafood, which can result in undercooked or overcooked seafood.
  • Not stirring the seafood mixture frequently enough, which can cause it to burn or stick to the pan.
  • Not using enough cheese or sauce, which can make the dish dry and flavorless.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Use different types of seafood, such as shrimp, scallops, or fish, to create a unique flavor profile.
  • Add some heat to the dish by incorporating red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
  • Use a variety of cheeses, such as parmesan, mozzarella, or ricotta, to create a rich and creamy sauce.
  • Add some freshness to the dish by incorporating lemon zest or chopped parsley.
  • Use a different type of pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine, to create a unique texture.
  • Add some smokiness to the dish by incorporating smoked paprika or bacon.
  • Use a different type of sauce, such as alfredo or pesto, to create a unique flavor profile.

What to Serve With Seafood Cannelloni

Serve the seafood cannelloni hot, garnished with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Some other ideas for serving the dish include:

Garlic bread: Slice a baguette into 1-inch thick slices and brush with garlic butter. Bake in the oven until crispy and serve alongside the seafood cannelloni.

Green salad: Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a homemade vinaigrette for a light and refreshing side dish.

Roasted vegetables: Toss your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli or zucchini, with olive oil and seasonings. Roast in the oven until tender and serve alongside the seafood cannelloni.

Garlic breadGreen saladRoasted vegetablesGrilled meat or fishSauteed spinachRoasted potatoes

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

The seafood cannelloni can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. To refrigerate, simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To freeze, cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to serve, simply thaw the dish overnight in the fridge and bake in the oven until hot and bubbly.

When reheating the dish, be sure to check the internal temperature of the seafood, which should reach 145 F (63 C) for optimal doneness. You can also add a little bit of water or sauce to the dish to prevent it from drying out.

Some other tips for storing and reheating the dish include:

Labeling the dish with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of how long it's been stored.

Storing the dish in airtight containers, such as glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids.

Reheating the dish in the oven, rather than the microwave, to prevent it from drying out.

Adding a little bit of fresh parsley or lemon juice to the dish, to brighten up the flavors and textures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of seafood should I use for this recipe?

You can use a variety of seafood, such as shrimp, scallops, fish, or a combination of your favorites. Just be sure to choose seafood that's fresh and sustainable.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the seafood cannelloni ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. Simply thaw and reheat the dish when you're ready to serve.

What's the best way to reheat the dish?

The best way to reheat the dish is in the oven, rather than the microwave. This will help to prevent the dish from drying out and ensure that the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?

While frozen seafood can be a convenient option, it's generally best to use fresh seafood for this recipe. Frozen seafood can be more prone to drying out and may not have the same flavor and texture as fresh seafood.

What's the internal temperature of the seafood when it's cooked?

The internal temperature of the seafood should reach 145 F (63 C) for optimal doneness. You can use a thermometer to check the temperature and ensure that the seafood is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

Can I customize the recipe to my taste?

Yes, you can customize the recipe to your taste by using different types of seafood, cheese, and herbs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly to ensure that the dish is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

How do I prevent the dish from drying out?

To prevent the dish from drying out, be sure to not overcook the seafood and to use a rich and creamy sauce. You can also add a little bit of water or sauce to the dish when reheating it to prevent it from drying out.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

While cannelloni tubes are the traditional choice for this recipe, you can also use other types of pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly to ensure that the pasta is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

The Full Recipe
Recipe Card
Seafood Cannelloni

Seafood Cannelloni

Indulge in a seafood cannelloni made with fresh seafood, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in with the family

Prep20 min
Cook25 min
Total45 min
Serves4
Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  • 12 cannelloni tubes
  • 1 lb (450g) mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, cod)
  • 2 tbsp (30g) olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (250g) grated mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup (125g) grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup (250g) marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp (5g) dried basil
  • 1 tsp (5g) dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 F (190 C).
  2. Cook the cannelloni tubes according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves boiling them in salted water for 3-5 minutes, then draining and rinsing them with cold water.
  3. In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
  4. Add the mixed seafood to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until it's lightly browned and cooked through. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning.
  5. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the marinara sauce, basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked seafood mixture, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine.
  7. Stuff each cannelloni tube with the seafood mixture, using a cannelloni tube filler or piping bag. Place the stuffed tubes in a baking dish (9x13 inch).
  8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the top is lightly browned.
  10. Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the cheese to set and the flavors to meld together.
  11. Serve the seafood cannelloni hot, garnished with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. Be sure to check the internal temperature of the seafood, which should reach 145 F (63 C) for optimal doneness.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate)

420Calories
35gProtein
25gCarbs
20gFat