Stuffed Shells

There’s something about stuffed shells that just screams comfort, don’t you think? Picture this: perfectly cooked pasta shells cradling a creamy, cheesy filling, all baked together in a luscious marinara sauce. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a big, warm hug, and trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or serving it up at a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to whip up, even for beginner cooks. So grab your apron, and let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love Stuffed Shells

This dish isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about the experience. Here’s why stuffed shells will become your new favorite recipe:

Versatile

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a party, stuffed shells are a winner. Imagine the comfort of a homemade meal after a long day or the joy of seeing your friends rave about your cooking. This recipe can do both!

Budget-Friendly

No need for expensive or hard-to-find ingredients—just pantry staples and a few fresh items. You’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients come together to create something so delicious.

Quick and Easy

Even if you’re not an expert in the kitchen, you’ll be able to handle this one. The steps are straightforward and approachable, meaning you’ll spend less time stressing and more time savoring every bite.

Customizable

Love a little heat? Add some crushed red pepper flakes. Want it extra cheesy? Throw in an extra handful of mozzarella. This recipe is easy to make your own, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

Crowd-Pleasing

The beauty of stuffed shells is that everyone—kids and adults alike—will be lining up for seconds. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together with its comforting flavors.

Ingredients

Here’s the magic of stuffed shells—it’s made with a few simple ingredients, yet the flavors are out of this world. Let’s break it down:

Pasta Shells

The base of it all. Jumbo pasta shells hold the creamy filling beautifully, making each bite a perfect combination of pasta and cheese.

Ricotta Cheese

Oh, ricotta. It’s creamy, smooth, and melts perfectly into the shells. This is the secret to the irresistible filling.

Mozzarella Cheese

For that gooey, melty cheese goodness we all love. The mozzarella gives the dish the perfect cheesy pull that makes it so satisfying.

Parmesan Cheese

A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a nice salty, nutty flavor to balance the richness of the filling.

Spinach (optional)

If you’re feeling extra veggie-friendly, add some spinach to the filling. It adds color, nutrients, and a lovely mild flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheeses.

Marinara Sauce

A tangy, flavorful marinara is the finishing touch. It creates a rich, savory base that pulls everything together.

Herbs and Spices

A little salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning are all you need to round out the flavor. Simple, but so effective!

Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to create a plate of stuffed shell perfection:

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures everything bakes evenly and perfectly.

Cook the Pasta Shells

Boil the jumbo shells according to the package instructions, but don’t overcook them. You want them to be al dente since they’ll continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set them aside to cool.

Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and spinach (if using). Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything together until it’s creamy and well combined.

Stuff the Shells

Spoon the cheese mixture into each shell, filling them generously. Be sure to stuff them all the way to the edges so every bite is cheesy and delicious.

Prepare the Baking Dish

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. This helps prevent the shells from sticking and adds extra flavor.

Assemble the Dish

Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish, open side up. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, ensuring the shells are nicely covered. Sprinkle a little more mozzarella on top if you’re in the mood for extra cheese (who isn’t?).

Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to get that bubbly, golden cheese on top.

Finishing Touches

Once it’s out of the oven, let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes. This helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier.

Serve and Enjoy

Dish up your cheesy stuffed shells and enjoy! Whether you serve them with a crisp salad or some garlic bread, this dish is bound to impress.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 420
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 820mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 20g
Vitamin D: 15% DV
Calcium: 35% DV
Iron: 12% DV

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

How to Serve Stuffed Shells

Stuffed shells are so versatile, you can pair them with just about anything! Here are some ideas:

Fresh Salads

Pair your stuffed shells with a crisp green salad, maybe with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.

Crusty Bread

You can’t go wrong with a side of warm, crusty bread. Perfect for mopping up any extra sauce!

Vegetable Sides

Roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus make a lovely addition and add a healthy touch to the meal.

As a Standalone

Honestly, these stuffed shells are hearty enough to stand alone. Just garnish with a little fresh basil or parsley for that finishing touch.

Additional Tips

Here are a few tips to make this recipe even more amazing:

Prep Ahead

Chop your spinach and measure out the cheese the night before. This will save you time when it’s time to bake.

Spice It Up

If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or the filling.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture!

Double the Batch

This recipe freezes wonderfully! Make a double batch, freeze one, and you’ll have a meal ready to go on a busy day.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute ricotta with something else?

A1: Yes! You can use cottage cheese or a dairy-free alternative if needed.

Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?

A2: Definitely! Assemble the shells, cover them tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just add a little extra bake time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?

A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven until hot.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?

A4: Yes! Freeze it in a tightly sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Q5: What sides go well with this?

A5: A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully with stuffed shells.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?

A6: Absolutely! Just be sure to use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time if needed.

Q7: Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

A7: You can swap out the cheeses for plant-based alternatives to make this dish vegan.

Q8: How can I make this healthier?

A8: Try using whole-wheat shells or adding more veggies like mushrooms or zucchini to the filling.

Q9: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?

A9: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

Q10: What cookware works best for stuffed shells?

A10: A deep, 9×13-inch baking dish is ideal for this recipe. It ensures the shells bake evenly and have enough room to spread out.

Conclusion

Stuffed shells are one of those recipes that feels like a warm, cozy embrace. It’s got everything—comfort, flavor, and a little bit of cheesy magic. So, whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it up for a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to hit the spot. Enjoy every bite!

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