Growing up on the beautiful island of Crete, seafood was always a special treat in my family. I still remember the first time I made White Sauce Seafood Cannelloni with my grandmother it was a rainy afternoon, and the kitchen smelled like garlic, herbs, and the sea. I was nervous rolling the delicate pasta sheets around the creamy seafood filling, but my grandmother encouraged me to trust my instincts. That’s when I realized that cooking isn’t just about following a recipe it’s about creating memories, experimenting a little, and most importantly, sharing the joy with loved ones.
This recipe for White Sauce Seafood Cannelloni is one of my favorites because it combines the elegance of seafood with a creamy, dreamy white sauce. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner at home or a special gathering with friends, this dish will impress without stressing you out. It’s rich, comforting, and carries a touch of Greek inspiration that I love to sprinkle in.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy, flavorful White Sauce Seafood Cannelloni:
- 12 cannelloni pasta tubes
- 2 cups cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup cooked crab meat or lobster (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant. Add shrimp and crab meat, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Make the white sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1 minute to make a roux. Gradually pour in milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine filling and sauce: Mix the cooled seafood with half of the white sauce in a bowl.
- Stuff the cannelloni: Carefully fill each pasta tube with the seafood mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
- Assemble the dish: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed cannelloni in the dish and pour the remaining sauce evenly on top.
- Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon. Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
This White Sauce Seafood Cannelloni pairs beautifully with:
- A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or crusty French bread
- A chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay
It’s perfect for a family dinner or an elegant weeknight treat.
📝 Recipe Tips Card
⏱️ Time Cook: 45–50 minutes
🧺 Ingredients: Shrimp, crab meat, cannelloni, white sauce, Parmesan
👩🍳 Instructions: Sauté seafood, make white sauce, stuff cannelloni, bake
📝 Note: For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the filling or sprinkle mozzarella on top before baking
🍎 Nutrition: Approx. 450 calories per serving; rich in protein, calcium, and healthy fats
Short 100-Word Version
Experience the creamy delight of White Sauce Seafood Cannelloni a dish that combines tender shrimp and crab meat with a rich white sauce. Sauté onions, garlic, and seafood, then mix with half the white sauce. Stuff cooked cannelloni tubes, cover with remaining sauce, and bake until golden. Garnish with parsley and lemon for a fresh finish. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish brings elegance and comfort together effortlessly. Serve with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Quick, impressive, and bursting with flavor, this seafood cannelloni is a must-try.