Stuffed Shells

Stuffed shells are a timeless Italian dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. These delightful pasta shells, generously filled with a creamy blend of four cheeses and aromatic herbs, make for a perfect meal for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply indulging in a delicious dish at home, stuffed shells stand out with their rich flavors and beautiful presentation. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and are freezer-friendly, ensuring you have a scrumptious meal ready whenever you crave it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, these stuffed shells are accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan with fresh spinach creates a rich and satisfying filling.
• Versatile: You can customize the filling by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, making this dish adaptable for various tastes.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the stuffed shells in advance for easy reheating on busy nights.
• Freezer Friendly: These shells store well in the freezer, offering convenience without compromising on taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right kitchen tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Casserole dish (9 x 13-inch)
• Spoon or spatula

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: Perfect for boiling jumbo pasta shells to al dente perfection without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing garlic and spinach quickly to enhance their flavors before mixing them into the cheese filling.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all your ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Casserole dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and makes for beautiful serving right from oven to table.

Ingredients

These classic stuffed shells are filled with a creamy 4-cheese blend with Italian seasonings, sautéed garlic, and the optional addition of spinach. This meal is also make-ahead and freezer friendly!

Ingredients:
– 18-20 jumbo pasta shells (boil extra in case some break)
– 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 4 cups spinach
– 15 oz. Ricotta
– ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
– 3 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded and divided)
– 2 Tablespoons cream cheese
– 1 egg
– 24 ounces marinara sauce
– Fresh parsley (to garnish)
– ½ tsp Salt
– ¼ tsp pepper
– ½ teaspoon dried basil
– ½ teaspoon dried parsley
– ½ teaspoon dried oregano

How to Make Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the stuffed shells.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

1. Boil salted water in a large pot.
2. Add jumbo pasta shells and cook them for about one minute less than al dente (around 13 minutes; refer to package).
3. Set a timer to avoid overcooking.
4. Drain the cooked shells and gently rinse them with cold water until cool.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Spinach

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant.
3. Add spinach to the skillet; toss it with garlic until wilted (about three minutes).
4. Set aside to cool.

Step 4: Prepare Cheese Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with salt, pepper, dried basil, dried parsley, and dried oregano.
2. Stir in half of the mozzarella cheese and most of the Parmesan (reserve some Parmesan for topping).
3. Mix in cream cheese and egg until well combined.
4. Fold in cooled spinach and garlic mixture.

Step 5: Assemble Stuffed Shells

1. Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly at the bottom of a casserole dish (9 x 13-inch).
2. Use a spoon to fill each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture.
3. Place each filled shell into the baking dish.

Step 6: Bake the Stuffed Shells

1. Pour remaining marinara sauce over the top of filled shells.
2. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan on top.
3. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
4. Remove cover and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving alongside garlic bread with cheese for an extra treat! Enjoy your delicious stuffed shells!

How to Serve Stuffed Shells

Serving stuffed shells is a delightful experience that can be tailored to your preferences and occasion. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy Caesar dressing and croutons adds a rich flavor.

Add Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted baguette slices brushed with garlic butter make for an irresistible side.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Top your garlic bread with mozzarella for an extra cheesy experience.

Serve with Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal Roasted Veggies: Carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini drizzled with olive oil and herbs add color and nutrients.
• Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: Oven-roasted Brussels sprouts sprinkled with Parmesan cheese enhance the meal’s flavor profile.

How to Perfect Stuffed Shells

Perfecting stuffed shells involves attention to detail in preparation and cooking. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Boldly Season Your Filling: Ensure your ricotta filling is well-seasoned with salt, pepper, and herbs for maximum flavor.
• Carefully Cook Pasta: Boil pasta shells just until al dente; overcooking can lead to mushy shells that break easily.
• Layer Sauce Generously: Spread marinara sauce generously on both the bottom of the dish and over the filled shells to keep them moist.
• Use Quality Cheese: Opt for fresh mozzarella and high-quality Parmesan to enhance the creamy texture and taste.
• Cool Spinach Before Mixing: Let the spinach cool before adding it to the cheese mixture to avoid cooking the egg prematurely.
• Cover While Baking: Cover your dish initially while baking to help everything heat through without drying out.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Shells

Stuffed shells pair beautifully with various sides that complement their rich flavors. Here are some delicious options.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft knots of dough brushed with garlic butter make a perfect finger-food accompaniment.
2. Italian Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cheeses, cured meats (like chicken or turkey), and marinated vegetables offers variety.
3. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a fresh appetizer.
4. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from shredded zucchini are a tasty way to add some greens.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with a cheesy herb mixture provide an elegant touch.
6. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender adds a vibrant green side that’s easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making stuffed shells, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to ensure delicious outcomes every time.

• Boldly Overcooking Pasta: Cooking the shells for too long will make them mushy. Boil them for only 1 minute less than al dente to maintain structure.
• Boldly Skipping Seasonings: Neglecting to season your ricotta mixture can lead to bland flavors. Always include herbs and spices for a tasty filling.
• Boldly Underfilling Shells: Not using enough filling can leave your stuffed shells lacking in flavor. Ensure each shell is generously filled for the best experience.
• Boldly Ignoring Sauce Placement: Forgetting to layer sauce at the bottom can cause sticking. Always add some marinara sauce before placing the shells.
• Boldly Baking Uncovered Too Long: Baking without cover initially can dry out the dish. Cover for the first part of baking, then uncover for a golden top.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days.
• Ensure the shells are completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Stuffed Shells

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Stuffed Shells

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 25 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-4 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to create steam, covering until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize my Stuffed Shells?

You can add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers, or swap in different cheeses based on your preference!

Can I make Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

What type of cheese is best for Stuffed Shells?

A blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan offers great flavor. Feel free to experiment with others like goat cheese or feta.

How do I prevent my Stuffed Shells from sticking together?

Using enough marinara sauce between layers helps prevent sticking. Additionally, storing them with parchment paper can aid separation.

Are Stuffed Shells suitable for meal prep?

Yes! They are perfect for meal prep as they reheat well and make for convenient leftovers throughout the week.

Conclusion

These stuffed shells are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Whether you prefer classic flavors or want to add your personal touch, this recipe invites creativity. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings!

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