why make this recipe
Stuffed shells are a comforting and delicious dish that everyone loves. They are perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering. Plus, they are easy to make and you can customize them to your taste. You can make them ahead of time and simply bake when you are ready. It’s a simple way to impress your guests with a home-cooked meal.
how to make Stuffed Shells
Ingredients :
12 jumbo pasta shells,
15 oz ricotta cheese,
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese,
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese,
1 egg,
2 cups marinara sauce,
1 tsp Italian seasoning,
Salt and pepper to taste,
Fresh basil for garnish
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the cheese mixture.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed shells in the dish and top with the remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top if desired.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
how to serve Stuffed Shells
Serve the stuffed shells hot from the oven. You can top them with extra marinara sauce and garnish with fresh basil. Pair them with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
how to store Stuffed Shells
If you have leftovers, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to protect them from freezer burn. They will last in the freezer for up to 2 months.
tips to make Stuffed Shells
- Make sure to cook the pasta shells al dente so they hold their shape when stuffed and baked.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the cheese mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use different types of cheese based on your preferences. For example, goat cheese or feta can add a unique twist.
variation
You can change the filling by using ground meat or cooked chicken instead of cheese. Another option is to add a variety of herbs and spices to change the flavor profile, such as garlic or red pepper flakes.
FAQs
Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them and then cover them and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Yes! You can freeze them before or after baking. Just make sure they are well-wrapped.How do I reheat stuffed shells?
You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot throughout. If they’re frozen, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for easier reheating.
Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Stuffed shells are a comforting and delicious dish filled with cheese and baked in marinara sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the cheese mixture.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed shells in the dish and top with the remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top if desired.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
Make sure to cook the pasta shells al dente so they hold their shape. Feel free to add vegetables or change the cheese types for variation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: stuffed shells, pasta, Italian recipe, comfort food, easy dinner