Stuffed Shells Recipe
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warmth and heartiness of a well-made stuffed shell. This Stuffed Shells Recipe is not only incredibly tasty but also a feast for the eyes, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With tender pasta shells filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, smothered in rich marinara sauce, and topped with gooey mozzarella, each bite is a delightful experience. So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into the world of stuffed shells!
What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets this Stuffed Shells Recipe apart from others is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of creamy ricotta cheese, savory herbs, and tangy marinara creates a symphony of taste that keeps you coming back for more. The addition of fresh parsley not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color, making your dish visually appealing. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be easily customized to suit your family’s preferences!
The Essentials
- 20 jumbo pasta shells: The star of the recipe, these large shells are perfect for holding the creamy filling.
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped: Adds depth of flavor to the filling.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Provides a fragrant base that elevates the dish.
- 1 tsp salt, divided: Enhances the overall taste of the filling and sauce.
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, divided: Adds a hint of spice.
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano: Infuses the filling with a classic Italian flavor.
- 3 cups marinara sauce: A rich and tangy sauce that complements the stuffed shells perfectly.
- 15 oz ricotta cheese: The creamy base for the filling.
- 1 large egg: Binds the filling ingredients together.
- 1/3 cup parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty flavor to the filling.
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts beautifully on top.
- 1/4 cup parsley, plus more to garnish: Freshness that brightens the dish.
Toolbox for This Recipe
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta shells.
- Skillet: To sauté the onions and garlic.
- Mixing bowl: For combining the filling ingredients.
- Baking dish: To assemble and bake your stuffed shells.
- Spoon or piping bag: To fill the pasta shells with the ricotta mixture.
Stuffed Shells Recipe: How It’s Done
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Make sure to add a pinch of salt to the boiling water for added flavor. Once cooked, drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sautéed onions and garlic, 1 tsp of salt, 1/2 tsp of black pepper, dried oregano, egg, parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Mix until well combined and creamy.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells
Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture. Be generous but avoid overfilling to ensure the shells do not break.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells on top of the sauce, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed shells warm!
Flavor-Forward Alternatives
- Spinach and Ricotta: Add some sautéed spinach to the ricotta mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
- Meat Lover’s Version: Mix in cooked ground beef or Italian sausage with the ricotta for a heartier filling.
- Veggie Delight: Incorporate chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini into the filling for a colorful twist.
- Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs such as basil or thyme for a unique flavor profile.
If You’re Curious
Stuffed shells are a traditional Italian-American dish that gained popularity in the mid-20th century. The large pasta shells are perfect for stuffing, making them a favorite among families. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences or ingredient availability. Feel free to get creative!
Storing Tips & Timelines
Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in a preheated oven until warmed through. If you want to freeze the stuffed shells, assemble them without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, extending the cooking time as needed.
FAQ
Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them with foil to prevent drying out.
What can I serve with stuffed shells?
Stuffed shells pair wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or even cream cheese for a different flavor and texture.
How do I know when the stuffed shells are done baking?
The stuffed shells are done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. You can also check for warmth in the center by inserting a knife.
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Before You Go
Thank you for joining me on this culinary journey through my beloved Stuffed Shells Recipe. I hope you feel inspired to bring this comforting dish to your kitchen table. With its rich flavors and delightful presentation, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Don’t forget to leave a comment below sharing your experience with the recipe or any unique variations you tried. Happy cooking!
Stuffed Shells Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Make sure to add a pinch of salt to the boiling water for added flavor. Once cooked, drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sautéed onions and garlic, 1 tsp of salt, 1/2 tsp of black pepper, dried oregano, egg, parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Mix until well combined and creamy.
- Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture. Be generous but avoid overfilling to ensure the shells do not break.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells on top of the sauce, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed shells warm!
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed spinach to the ricotta mixture.
- Feel free to mix in cooked ground beef or Italian sausage for a meatier filling.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
