Every great recipe has a story behind it. This Carrabba’s seafood cannelloni recipe is no different. I grew up watching my grandmother roll pasta sheets. She filled them with love and coastal flavors that took us to the Italian seaside.
This recipe is more than just a meal. It’s a journey that brings restaurant-quality dining to your kitchen. Carrabba’s Italian Grill started in 1986, known for its amazing Italian food. This recipe captures the essence of their beloved seafood dish.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a food enthusiast, this recipe will take your cooking to the next level. You’ll learn to make a seafood cannelloni that’s as good as any restaurant. It uses fresh ingredients and simple techniques.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Seafood Cannelloni
Explore the world of Italian cuisine with a tasty seafood cannelloni recipe. It’s a dish that combines the sea’s rich flavors with pasta-making traditions. It’s both elegant and comforting.
What is Seafood Cannelloni?
Seafood cannelloni is a fancy pasta dish. It has big pasta tubes filled with fresh seafood. It comes from Italy’s coast and mixes seafood like shrimp with creamy cheeses and herbs.
Popularity of the Dish
- Restaurant favorite at high-end Italian establishments
- Growing trend in home cooking
- Versatile recipe that impresses dinner guests
- Perfect for special occasions and weekend meals
Overview of Ingredients
Your seafood cannelloni recipe needs:
- Fresh pasta sheets or pre-made cannelloni shells
- Mixed seafood selection
- Ricotta and cream cheese
- Fresh herbs and seasonings
- Rich marinara or cream-based sauce
“A perfect seafood cannelloni is all about balance and fresh ingredients.”
Making this dish at home lets you pick the best ingredients. You can make a meal as good as a restaurant’s.
Key Ingredients for the Recipe
Making authentic Italian seafood cannelloni needs the right ingredients. They must bring out rich, complex flavors. This guide will help you pick the best parts for your dish.
Pasta Choices
Choosing the right pasta is key to your cannelloni’s success. You have two main options:
- Fresh homemade cannelloni shells
- High-quality store-bought pasta sheets
Seafood Options
For a true Carrabba’s copycat, try these seafood mixes:
- Tender shrimp
- Sweet bay scallops
- Delicate crab meat
- Mixed seafood medley
“The secret to great Italian seafood cannelloni is using fresh, high-quality seafood.” – Chef Marco
Sauce Ingredients
Your sauce is what makes the dish. It’s all about the flavors. Here are the key ingredients:
- San Marzano tomatoes
- Fresh garlic
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves
- Aged Parmesan cheese
With the right ingredients, your seafood cannelloni will be as good as Carrabba’s.
Preparing the Pasta
Making the perfect cannelloni shells is key for a great seafood cannelloni dish. Whether you use fresh or store-bought pasta, knowing the right steps makes a big difference. It can turn your dish into a restaurant-quality meal.
Making Fresh Cannelloni from Scratch
Making homemade cannelloni needs care and patience. Here are the main steps to make perfect pasta shells:
- Use high-quality “00” flour for authentic texture
- Mix eggs and flour to create a smooth dough
- Roll the dough thin enough to see your hand through it
- Cut into rectangular sheets perfect for rolling
Cooking Store-Bought Pasta Perfectly
For a quick fix, store-bought cannelloni can still be great. The cooking time is key to get the right texture.
| Pasta Type | Cooking Time | Preparation Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Cannelloni | 7-10 minutes | Partially cook to maintain structure |
| Fresh Pasta Sheets | 2-4 minutes | Watch carefully to prevent overcooking |
Expert Tips for Perfect Cannelloni Shells
Professional chefs share these tips for the best pasta:
- Salt water generously for maximum flavor
- Test pasta doneness by tasting
- Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking
- Lay shells flat to prevent sticking
“The secret to great cannelloni is in the pasta’s texture and preparation.” – Chef Mario Rossi
Pro tip: Always have a few extra pasta shells ready in case of tears or imperfections during your authentic seafood cannelloni preparation.
Making the Seafood Filling
Creating the perfect seafood filling is key to a delicious homemade seafood cannelloni recipe. Your filling’s flavor and texture will make or break this classic Italian dish. The right mix of fresh seafood and ingredients can turn a simple meal into a memorable one.
Selecting Your Seafood
For a Carrabba’s seafood cannelloni recipe, pick top-quality seafood. It’s what will make your dish stand out. Here are some great choices:
- Fresh shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Lump crab meat
- Scallops
- White fish like cod or halibut
Combining the Filling Ingredients
To make a rich, creamy seafood filling, mix your seafood with other important ingredients. A great mix includes:
- Ricotta cheese for creaminess
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Minced garlic
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Beaten egg to bind ingredients
Seasoning the Filling
Seasoning right can take your homemade seafood cannelloni from good to great. Use salt, black pepper, and a touch of red pepper flakes to boost the seafood’s taste. Fold the ingredients gently to keep the seafood tender.
Pro tip: Always use fresh seafood and avoid overcrowding the mixing bowl to preserve the ingredients’ individual characteristics.
Preparing the Sauce
Making the perfect sauce is key for a great seafood cannelloni recipe. A good sauce can make your dish stand out, just like Carrabba’s. It brings out the flavors of the seafood and makes your cannelloni taste like a restaurant meal.
Every seafood cannelloni needs a top-notch sauce. You have two main choices that can change how your dish tastes:
Classic Marinara Sauce
To make a traditional marinara that goes well with seafood, you’ll need these ingredients:
- Crushed tomatoes: 28 oz
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Garlic cloves: 3 (minced)
- Dried oregano: 1½ tsp
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Ground black pepper: ½ tsp
Here’s how to make your marinara sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet
- Sauté minced garlic until it smells good
- Add crushed tomatoes
- Sprinkle in oregano, salt, and pepper
- Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring now and then
Creamy Alfredo Variation
If you want a richer sauce, try the Alfredo variation. It’s creamy and goes well with seafood in your cannelloni.
“The secret to a perfect Alfredo is patience and quality ingredients.” – Professional Chef
To make Alfredo sauce, you’ll need heavy cream, butter, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a bit of salt. The trick is to cook it slowly and stir it a lot. This makes the sauce smooth and creamy, perfect for your seafood cannelloni.
Whether you pick marinara or Alfredo, your sauce will make your seafood cannelloni unforgettable. It will taste just as good as Carrabba’s.
Assembling the Cannelloni
Making the perfect Italian seafood cannelloni needs careful steps and detail. You aim to turn simple parts into a dish that wows everyone. The key to the best seafood cannelloni recipe is in the technique and preparation.
How to Stuff the Pasta
Stuffing cannelloni shells can be tricky, but these tips will help you master the technique:
- Use a piping bag for clean, even filling
- Don’t overfill the pasta shells
- Gently press the filling to remove air pockets
- Keep seafood pieces small for easier stuffing
Layering the Sauce
Layering the sauce right is key for tasty Italian seafood cannelloni. Begin by putting a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of your baking dish. This stops the pasta from sticking and helps it cook evenly.
- Spread a light sauce base
- Place stuffed cannelloni carefully
- Cover generously with additional sauce
- Sprinkle cheese between layers
Baking Techniques
To bake perfectly, preheat your oven to 375°F. Cover the dish with foil for the first 25 minutes. This cooks the pasta evenly and keeps the seafood tender.
For a golden, crispy top, remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. Your Italian seafood cannelloni will come out with a beautiful, appetizing crust that promises incredible flavor.
Cooking Instructions
Preparing Carrabba’s seafood cannelloni needs care and precision. The right cooking method can make your dish amazing. It ensures every bite is full of flavor and the seafood is perfectly cooked.
Oven Temperature and Baking Time
For authentic seafood cannelloni, heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature helps the seafood cook evenly without drying out. It usually takes 25-30 minutes to bake, depending on your recipe and ingredients.
- Preheat oven: 375°F (190°C)
- Baking time: 25-30 minutes
- Recommended dish depth: 2-3 inches
Signs Your Cannelloni is Perfectly Cooked
Knowing when your seafood cannelloni is done is key. Look for these signs:
- Sauce is bubbling around the edges
- Cheese is golden and slightly crispy
- Seafood appears opaque and tender
- Internal temperature reaches 145°F
Tips for Avoiding Overcooking
It’s important to avoid overcooking to keep the seafood tender. Here are some tips for perfect results:
- Cover with foil for first 20 minutes
- Use a meat thermometer
- Let dish rest for 5-10 minutes after baking
- Choose fresh, high-quality seafood
By following these cooking tips, you’ll make an authentic seafood cannelloni. With practice and attention to detail, you’ll master this delicious dish.
Serving Suggestions
Improving your carrabba’s seafood cannelloni recipe is more than just cooking. The right sides can make your homemade dish feel like a fancy restaurant meal. It will excite your taste buds and senses.
Perfect Side Dishes
Choose side dishes that match the rich taste of your seafood cannelloni:
- Crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted asparagus with garlic
- Light Mediterranean mixed greens
- Grilled vegetable medley
Wine Pairing Recommendations
Find wines that bring out the seafood flavors in your cannelloni:
- White Wines: Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc
- Light Red Wines: Pinot Noir
“The right wine can elevate your homemade seafood cannelloni from delicious to extraordinary.”
Elegant Garnishing Techniques
Make your dish look amazing with these garnishing tips:
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Lemon zest sprinkle
- Micro herbs
- Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
Nutritional highlight: Each serving has about 943 calories, with 41g protein and 45g fat. It’s a filling and tasty meal.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Keeping your Carrabba’s copycat seafood cannelloni recipe fresh is easy. Just follow the right steps for storing and reheating. This way, you can enjoy it again and again, just like the first time.
- Cool the dish completely before storing
- Use airtight containers for maximum freshness
- Refrigerate within two hours of cooking
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days
Best Practices for Storage
Freezing is a great way to keep your seafood cannelloni for longer. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and then in a freezer-safe container. This way, it can stay good for up to 2 months.
Reheating Methods
To bring back the taste of your Carrabba’s copycat recipe, reheat it gently. Here are two ways to do it:
- Oven Method: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes
- Microwave Method: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming
Using Leftover Cannelloni
Don’t throw away your seafood cannelloni! You can turn it into something new. Try it in pasta salads, stuffed peppers, or on top of garlic bread.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Preparing the best seafood cannelloni recipe can sometimes present challenges. Don’t worry! These expert tips will help you overcome common cooking obstacles and ensure your Italian seafood cannelloni turns out perfectly every time.
Rescuing Overcooked Pasta
Overcooked cannelloni can quickly ruin your seafood dish. When pasta shells become too soft, try these quick solutions:
- Remove from oven immediately to prevent further cooking
- Cover with extra sauce to mask texture issues
- Use slightly undercooked pasta next time to account for additional baking
- Reduce oven temperature by 25 degrees
Correcting Sauce Consistency
A runny sauce can transform your Italian seafood cannelloni from perfect to disappointing. Quick fixes include:
- Simmer sauce uncovered to reduce liquid
- Add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water
- Incorporate additional grated parmesan cheese
- Use tomato paste to thicken marinara-based sauces
Balancing Flavor Profiles
Seafood cannelloni requires delicate flavor management. When your dish lacks depth, consider these adjustments:
- Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley
- Sprinkle extra sea salt to enhance seafood taste
- Use a splash of white wine to brighten flavors
- Incorporate lemon zest for brightness
With these troubleshooting techniques, you’ll master the art of creating restaurant-quality Italian seafood cannelloni right in your kitchen.
Conclusion
Your journey with this seafood cannelloni recipe is ending on a high note. The dish you’ve learned to make is more than food. It’s a celebration of Italian-American cooking that turns simple ingredients into something special.
Every recipe is a chance to get creative. We showed you a classic way to make seafood cannelloni. But feel free to try new seafood, herbs, or sauces. The joy of cooking is in making each dish your own while keeping the basics right.
We encourage you to share your takes on this recipe. Your ideas and feedback help grow a community of home cooks. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a big event, remember that cooking is about passion, practice, and enjoying the journey.
Your Culinary Adventure Continues
Cooking is always a learning journey. Every time you make this cannelloni, you’ll find new things to love. Bon appétit!
FAQ
What is seafood cannelloni?
Seafood cannelloni is a classic Italian dish. It has large pasta tubes filled with shrimp, scallops, and crab. The filling is mixed with cheese and herbs, then baked in a tasty sauce.
How difficult is it to make Carrabba’s Seafood Cannelloni at home?
Making this dish at home is a bit challenging but doable. If you have some cooking experience, you can follow the steps and use fresh ingredients to get it right.
Can I substitute different types of seafood in the recipe?
Yes, you can! Feel free to mix and match seafood like crab, shrimp, and scallops. This way, you can make it your own.
What are the best sauces for seafood cannelloni?
Marinara and Alfredo sauces are great choices. You can also try a white wine sauce or a tomato-cream mix for something different.
How long can I store leftover seafood cannelloni?
Leftover cannelloni can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure it’s wrapped well to avoid freezer burn.
Is this recipe suitable for special dietary needs?
Yes, it can be. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. To make it lower in fat, adjust the cheese and sauce.
What wine pairs well with seafood cannelloni?
White wines like Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc pair well. For red, a light Pinot Noir is a good choice.
Can I prepare seafood cannelloni in advance?
Yes, you can. Assemble it up to 24 hours before baking. It’s perfect for making ahead for guests or meals.
What are common mistakes to avoid when making seafood cannelloni?
Avoid overcooking the pasta and using low-quality seafood. Also, don’t forget to season the filling well and don’t overbake.
How can I make my seafood cannelloni more flavorful?
Use fresh herbs and add white wine to the filling. Choose high-quality seafood and season well with salt, pepper, and spices like garlic and parsley.
Source Links
- 11 Italian Chain Restaurants, Ranked Worst To Best – https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/11-italian-chain-restaurants-ranked-011505928.html
- Copycat Olive Garden Cannelloni Recipe – https://recipes.net/main-dish/pasta/copycat-olive-garden-cannelloni-recipe/
- The Absolute Best Italian Restaurant in Colorado Springs [Updated 2025] – https://denverinsider.org/best-italian-restaurant-in-colorado-springs
- Cannoli Recipe | The Mediterranean Dish – https://www.themediterraneandish.com/cannoli-recipe/
- Tuscan White Bean Soup {Restaurant Style} – The Big Man’s World ® – https://thebigmansworld.com/tuscan-white-bean-soup/
- A stroll through Houston’s Italian dining history – http://www.mikericcetti.com/blog/a-passegiata-through-houstons-italian-restaurant-history
- 31 Types of Pasta and Their Uses – https://recipes.net/articles/types-of-pasta/
- Olive Garden’s Lasagna Classico Recipe – https://recipes.net/main-dish/pasta/olive-gardens-lasagna-classico-recipe/
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta – https://www.katiescucina.com/carrabbas-pasta-rambo/
- Fried Calamari (Carrabba’s Italian Grill Recipe) – https://chef-preneur.com/2016/01/21/fried-calamari-carrabbas-italian-grill-recipe/
- Fried Zucchini Sticks (Carrabba’s Italian Grill Copycat!) – https://www.theslowroasteditalian.com/fried-zucchini-sticks-carrabbas/
