Stuffed shells are a classic Italian dish that delights everyone at the dinner table. These pasta shells are not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying. They are large enough to hold a generous filling of ricotta cheese, herbs, and spices, making them an ideal comfort food choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The combination of flavors from the filling and the rich marinara sauce creates a mouthwatering experience you won’t want to miss.
This recipe for stuffed shells is straightforward and perfect for cooks of all skill levels. In less than an hour, you can prepare a hearty meal that will impress your guests and leave your family asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply looking for a delicious weeknight meal, these stuffed shells are sure to become a favorite in your household.
In this article, we will explore why you’ll love this stuffed shells recipe along with the ingredients needed and step-by-step instructions to create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen.
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:
- Jumbo Pasta Shells: Use about 20-25 jumbo pasta shells; they should be large enough to hold a generous amount of filling.
- Ricotta Cheese: Choose whole milk ricotta for creaminess; it provides a rich base for the filling.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella works best; it melts beautifully and adds gooeyness to each shell.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth of flavor; use fresh if possible for the best taste.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness; feel free to substitute with basil or spinach if desired.
- Marinara Sauce: Use store-bought or homemade sauce; it serves as a flavorful base in which the stuffed shells will bake.
For the Sauce:
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil enhances flavor when sautéing garlic or vegetables.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic adds aromatic flavor; adjust according to your taste preference.
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). This ensures even cooking as you prepare your stuffed shells.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente according to package instructions. Drain them carefully and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells
Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each cooked shell with the cheese mixture. Be generous so that each shell is well-stuffed.
Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells seam-side up in the dish. Pour remaining marinara sauce over them and top with leftover mozzarella cheese.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Cover with aluminum foil and bake in preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional five minutes until golden and bubbly.
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:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Pasta Preparation: Do not overcook the pasta; they will cook further while baking
- Sauce Variations: Feel free to experiment with different sauces like Alfredo or pesto for unique flavors
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare stuffed shells ahead of time; just cover tightly before baking
- Add Proteins: For added heartiness, consider mixing ground meat into your cheese filling
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: You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance by filling them with cheese and sauce, then covering them tightly. Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Storing: Leftover stuffed shells should be placed in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes. For frozen shells, allow extra time, about 30-40 minutes.
Suggestions for Stuffed Shells
Choose the Right Pasta
Selecting the right pasta is crucial for making delicious stuffed shells. Use large pasta shells specifically designed for stuffing, as they hold fillings better than traditional pasta. Avoid using small or broken shells, as they won’t provide enough space for the filling and may lead to a messy dish. Ensure that you cook the shells just until al dente. Overcooking can cause them to break when you try to stuff them, ruining the dish’s presentation. A gentle toss with olive oil after cooking can prevent them from sticking together, allowing for easier stuffing later.
Balance Your Filling
Creating a balanced filling is essential for stuffed shells that delight every palate. Aim to combine rich flavors and textures, such as creamy ricotta cheese with herbs like basil or parsley. Be cautious with overly salty ingredients like feta or Parmesan; too much salt can overwhelm other flavors in your dish. Incorporating fresh vegetables like spinach or mushrooms not only adds flavor but also increases nutritional value. Remember to taste your filling before stuffing the shells; adjusting seasonings at this stage ensures that each bite will be flavorful and satisfying.
Use Quality Sauce
The sauce you choose plays a vital role in enhancing your stuffed shells. Opt for homemade marinara sauce or a high-quality store-bought version; either choice should be full of flavor without added preservatives. Avoid overly sweet sauces, which can clash with the savory filling. Ensure that you use enough sauce to coat both the bottom of your baking dish and to generously cover the stuffed shells before baking. This step prevents dryness during cooking while infusing moisture and flavor into every shell.
Proper Baking Technique
Baking stuffed shells requires attention to temperature and time for optimal results. Preheat your oven adequately before placing the dish inside; this ensures even cooking throughout. Covering the dish with aluminum foil helps retain moisture during the initial baking phase, preventing dry shells. Remove the foil towards the end of baking to achieve a golden-brown top, enhancing both texture and visual appeal. Always check for doneness by ensuring that the filling is heated through and any cheese on top is bubbly and slightly browned.
FAQs
What are stuffed shells typically filled with?
Stuffed shells are often filled with a mixture of cheeses, such as ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, combined with herbs and spices for flavor enhancement. Some variations include adding ground meat like beef or turkey for a heartier option, while vegetarian versions might incorporate spinach or other greens alongside cheese. Experimenting with different fillings allows you to customize your stuffed shells according to personal preferences or dietary restrictions.
Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare stuffed shells ahead of time! To do this, assemble them in your baking dish but refrain from adding sauce until you’re ready to bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze them for longer storage. When ready to bake, add sauce directly over the chilled or frozen stuffed shells and adjust baking time accordingly—frozen ones will take longer to cook thoroughly.
How do I know when my stuffed shells are done?
To determine if your stuffed shells are fully cooked, look for bubbling sauce around the edges and a lightly browned top layer of cheese. Insert a knife into one of the center shells; it should feel hot when removed if cooked properly. If you’re unsure about the temperature inside, use a food thermometer—the internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Can I freeze leftover stuffed shells?
Freezing leftover stuffed shells is an excellent way to save any uneaten portions for future meals! Allow them to cool completely before transferring them into an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. You can freeze them in individual portions or as a whole dish covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) until warmed through.
Conclusion for Stuffed Shells
In summary, mastering stuffed shells requires attention to detail regarding pasta selection, filling balance, sauce quality, and proper baking techniques. Choosing large pasta shells sets a solid foundation while ensuring that your filling is flavorful enhances overall satisfaction in each bite. A good quality sauce complements your efforts beautifully by adding moisture and depth of flavor essential for this dish’s success. Lastly, understanding how to properly bake your creation guarantees beautiful results every time you serve it up at family dinners or gatherings.
Delicious Stuffed Shells Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 (based on serving size of two stuffed shells each) 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Stuffed shells are the ultimate comfort food, combining large pasta shells filled with a creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and fresh herbs. Smothered in rich marinara sauce and baked to golden perfection, this dish is a surefire way to impress family and friends at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 20–25 jumbo pasta shells
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and let cool.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Fill each pasta shell with the cheese mixture.
- Spread marinara sauce in a baking dish; arrange stuffed shells seam-side up and top with remaining sauce and mozzarella.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until bubbly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed shell (approximately 125g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
