Ah, stuffed shells! Just the thought of them takes me back to those cozy family gatherings where the kitchen was filled with laughter and the irresistible aroma of marinara sauce bubbling away. My grandma used to whip up a big batch, and we’d all gather around the table, eager to dig into those cheesy, saucy delights. There’s something so comforting about this stuffed shells recipe—it’s like a warm hug on a plate! Not only are they delicious, but they’re also super easy to make. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels fancy but is perfect for any weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to share this joy with your loved ones too!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these cheesy stuffed shells. I promise, it’s a simple list, but each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that rich, comforting flavor!
- 12 large pasta shells – These are the star of the dish! Make sure they’re big enough to hold all that yummy filling.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – This creamy cheese adds that perfect richness and texture. It’s a must for stuffed shells!
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded – For that gooey, melty goodness, you can’t go wrong with mozzarella. It makes everything better!
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated – This adds a wonderful sharpness and depth of flavor. Trust me, it’s what elevates your dish!
- 1 egg – This acts as a binder, helping to hold all those cheesy ingredients together. It’s a small but mighty addition!
- 2 cups marinara sauce – Use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade goodness. It’s the perfect complement to our stuffed shells!
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A sprinkle of this mix brings all the flavors of Italy right into your kitchen. Go ahead, use a little extra if you love those herbs!
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season! Just a pinch of each will help bring everything together beautifully.
How to Prepare the Stuffed Shells Recipe
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—preparing these delicious stuffed shells! Follow along with these simple steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dish in no time.
Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is essential because it ensures that your stuffed shells cook evenly and thoroughly. You don’t want to end up with cold centers, right? So, go ahead and get that oven nice and warm while you prepare the rest!
Cook the Pasta Shells
Next up, cook your pasta shells according to the package instructions—usually about 8-10 minutes until they’re al dente. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking together. Once done, drain them carefully in a colander and give them a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside to cool while you prepare the filling!
Prepare the Cheese Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg. Mix until everything is well blended and creamy. You’re looking for a smooth texture, so take your time to break up any clumps of cheese. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and give it another good stir. This filling is where the magic happens, so make sure it’s deliciously rich!
Stuff the Shells
Now it’s time to fill those pasta shells! Take each shell and, using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully stuff it with the cheese mixture. Don’t be shy—pack them in there! Place the filled shells seam-side up to keep that cheesy goodness inside. It’s like giving each shell a cozy little blanket of cheese!
Assemble the Dish
Grab your baking dish and spread half of the marinara sauce evenly across the bottom. This not only adds flavor but also prevents the shells from sticking. Next, arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer and pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Don’t skimp on the sauce—it’s essential for that lovely, saucy finish!
Bake the Stuffed Shells
Cover the baking dish with foil and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes, then remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 10 minutes. This will give the tops a nice golden color and let the cheese bubble up beautifully. Yum! Let them cool for a few minutes before serving, and get ready for a delicious meal!
Tips for Success
To make sure your stuffed shells come out perfectly every time, here are a few of my favorite tips! First, using fresh herbs instead of dried can really elevate the flavor—don’t be afraid to experiment! Also, keep an eye on the baking time; you want the cheese to be bubbly and golden but not overcooked. A quick poke with a knife can help you check if they’re heated through. And remember, let them cool slightly before serving for easier handling!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. The estimates provided here, like 350 calories and 15 grams of fat per serving, are just a guide. Always check the labels on your ingredients for the most accurate information!
Serving Suggestions
To make your meal truly special, serve these stuffed shells with a crisp side salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. It adds a refreshing contrast! And of course, you can’t go wrong with some warm garlic bread on the side—perfect for soaking up that delicious marinara sauce. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ Section
Got questions? I’ve got answers! If you’re wondering how to store leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. As for ingredient substitutions, you can swap out ricotta for cottage cheese if you prefer. And if you want a little kick, feel free to add some cooked sausage or spinach to the filling! Don’t hesitate to get creative—this stuffed shells recipe is all about making it your own!
Stuffed shells recipe: 5 Steps to Comforting Joy
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic Italian dish featuring pasta shells filled with a savory mixture.
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each shell with the cheese mixture.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place stuffed shells in the dish and cover with remaining marinara sauce.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: stuffed shells recipe, Italian pasta, ricotta shells