Stuffed shells are a classic Italian-American dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. These large pasta shells are typically filled with a delicious mixture of cheeses and herbs, then baked in a savory marinara sauce. This recipe for stuffed shells is not only easy to follow but also results in a hearty meal that can satisfy even the hungriest eaters. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; you can customize the filling to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends on the weekend, stuffed shells offer an inviting presentation that makes every meal feel special. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a warm casserole that will impress everyone at your table. Join me as we explore how to make these delectable stuffed shells from scratch.
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Shells
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Stuffed Shells
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Large Pasta Shells: Choose high-quality pasta shells to hold the filling well during baking.
- Ricotta Cheese: Use fresh ricotta for a creamy filling; it adds moisture and flavor.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, creating a gooey texture on top of the stuffed shells.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty depth of flavor that complements the other cheeses.
- Marinara Sauce: Opt for homemade or store-bought marinara sauce; it should be rich in flavor.
- Fresh Basil or Parsley: Chopped herbs brighten the filling and add freshness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Stuffed Shells
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a large baking dish by lightly greasing it with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them carefully and allow them to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil or parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
Step 4: Fill the Shells
Use a spoon to fill each cooked shell generously with the cheese mixture. Place each filled shell in the prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Add Marinara Sauce
Pour marinara sauce over the filled shells evenly. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra marinara sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Pasta Cooking Time: Make sure not to overcook the pasta; otherwise, they may break while filling.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme for added flavor in your filling.
- Melted Cheese Finish: Broil briefly at the end of baking for an extra crispy cheese topping.
Now you have everything you need to create delightful stuffed shells that will please your family and friends! Enjoy!
How to Serve Stuffed Shells
This Stuffed Shells is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the stuffed shells in advance by assembling them without baking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This allows flavors to meld together beautifully before cooking.
- Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze the baked shells in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffed shells in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25 minutes if frozen, or about 15 minutes if refrigerated until warmed through.
FAQs for Stuffed Shells:
What are the best filling options for stuffed shells?
Stuffed shells offer versatility in fillings. Popular choices include ricotta cheese, spinach, and mozzarella. You can also add ground meat, such as beef or turkey, for a heartier meal. Incorporating herbs like basil and parsley enhances the flavor profile. For a unique twist, consider using roasted vegetables or a blend of cream cheese and herbs. The key is to balance flavors and textures, allowing each ingredient to shine while complementing the others. Additionally, you can customize the filling based on dietary preferences, making it vegetarian-friendly or gluten-free by using appropriate pasta alternatives. Experimenting with different combinations can lead to delightful discoveries that elevate your stuffed shells to new heights.
How do you cook stuffed shells?
Cooking stuffed shells is straightforward. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil water in a large pot and cook the pasta shells until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly. Meanwhile, prepare your filling and stuff each shell generously. Spread marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking, then place the filled shells on top. Pour more sauce over the shells and sprinkle with cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes before removing the foil and baking an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden. This method ensures even cooking while keeping the pasta tender and flavorful.
Can you make stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare stuffed shells ahead of time! This makes them an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining guests. After assembling the dish with your desired filling and sauce, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. If you prefer freezing them for later use, assemble as usual but freeze before baking instead of after. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving for food safety.
What sauces pair well with stuffed shells?
Stuffed shells traditionally pair well with marinara sauce, but there are many other delicious options available. A creamy Alfredo sauce offers a rich contrast that complements cheesy fillings beautifully. You might also try pesto for an herby kick or a homemade tomato-basil sauce for freshness. For those who enjoy bold flavors, consider adding arrabbiata sauce or even a spicy vodka sauce for extra heat. Experimenting with different sauces can transform your dish into something truly special while allowing you to cater to various taste preferences during meals.
Are stuffed shells healthy?
Stuffed shells can be made healthy depending on your choice of ingredients! Opting for whole wheat pasta increases fiber content while lowering glycemic index levels compared to traditional white pasta. Using low-fat cheeses or incorporating more vegetables into your filling elevates nutritional value without sacrificing taste. Additionally, controlling portion sizes helps manage calorie intake effectively when serving this delicious dish at family dinners or gatherings. By being mindful of ingredient selections and preparation methods, you can enjoy stuffed shells guilt-free while still savoring their comforting qualities.
Can you customize stuffed shells for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! Stuffed shells are highly customizable to accommodate various dietary restrictions without losing their delicious appeal. For gluten-free diets, use gluten-free pasta alternatives available in most grocery stores today; just ensure they have similar cooking times as regular pasta varieties so that everything cooks evenly! If you’re following a vegetarian lifestyle, focus on plant-based fillings like mushrooms or lentils along with cheese blends that suit your taste buds perfectly! By swapping out certain components while keeping core elements intact—like flavor profiles—you’ll create delightful dishes suited specifically for individual needs!
Conclusion for Stuffed Shells:
In summary, stuffed shells offer endless possibilities for customization with various fillings and sauces that cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs. The cooking process is simple yet rewarding; whether preparing ahead of time or enjoying right after baking enhances convenience during busy schedules or special occasions alike! With thoughtful ingredient choices—such as whole grains or low-fat options—you can create healthier versions without compromising flavor quality either way! Ultimately, stuffed shells remain a beloved comfort food staple worthy of any dinner table gathering—a true delight that everyone will love!
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Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Stuffed shells are a comforting and delicious Italian-American classic that brings warmth and flavor to any family dinner. Large pasta shells are generously filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and fresh herbs, then baked in savory marinara sauce. This easy recipe is not only quick to prepare but also allows for customization based on your personal taste or dietary preferences. Perfect for weeknight meals or special gatherings, these cheesy delights are sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients
– Large pasta shells
– Ricotta cheese
– Shredded mozzarella cheese
– Grated Parmesan cheese
– Marinara sauce
– Fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente; drain and cool.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, herbs, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Generously fill each shell with the cheese mixture and place them in the baking dish.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the filled shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden.
Notes
– Customize the filling by adding spinach or ground meat for variety.
– Use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 18g