Stuffed Shells

Delicious Stuffed Shells Recipe

Welcome to this mouthwatering recipe blog post featuring a delightful dish of Stuffed Shells. This classic Italian-American favorite is sure to satisfy your cravings with its cheesy, savory goodness. Get ready to indulge in a comforting meal that will leave you wanting more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are some reasons why you’ll fall in love with these Stuffed Shells:

The combination of creamy ricotta cheese and flavorful herbs creates a rich and satisfying filling.

The tender pasta shells perfectly hold the delicious cheese mixture, making each bite a burst of flavor.

It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite ingredients like spinach, sausage, or mushrooms.

This recipe is great for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping ahead of time. It’s a family-friendly dish that everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients

For this Stuffed Shells recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

1 box jumbo pasta shells

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper.

3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.

4. Fill each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture and place them in the baking dish.

5. Cover the shells with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese on top.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

These Stuffed Shells pair perfectly with a side salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette and some garlic bread for a complete meal. Serve with a glass of red wine for a truly indulgent dining experience.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

If you’re looking to change things up, consider adding cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the cheese mixture for a meaty twist. You can also incorporate chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and texture.

Pro Tips for Success

Make sure to slightly undercook the pasta shells as they will continue to cook in the oven. This will prevent them from becoming mushy.

For a crispy top, broil the Stuffed Shells for a few minutes at the end of the cooking time.

Don’t skimp on the cheese! The more cheese, the better the flavor.

Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking to help the flavors meld together before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the Stuffed Shells up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them when you’re ready to enjoy.

2. Can I freeze Stuffed Shells?

Absolutely! Stuffed Shells freeze well. Just assemble the dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

3. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the meat and add extra veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the cheese mixture.

4. Can I use different types of cheese?

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like fontina, provolone, or asiago to create your own unique flavor profile.

5. What can I serve with Stuffed Shells?

Stuffed Shells go well with a variety of sides such as garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Stuffed Shells are a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving some cheesy goodness, this recipe is sure to impress. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, Stuffed Shells will become a staple in your recipe collection. So roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and enjoy a taste of Italy right in your own kitchen!