Irresistible Stuffed Pasta Shells: A Family Favorite Recipe

There’s a certain joy that comes from digging into a plate of stuffed pasta shells, isn’t there? Imagine that first bite, where the creamy filling bursts forth like a flavor bomb, enveloping your taste buds in a warm hug. From the savory cheeses to the tangy marinara sauce, each element plays its part in this culinary symphony of delight.

Now, let me take you on a little journey back to family gatherings, where these delightful stuffed pasta shells graced our table. My grandmother would prepare them with such love and care, her laughter echoing through the kitchen as we all waited impatiently for dinner. There’s something about the aroma of baked pasta that instantly transports me to those happy moments, making stuffed pasta shells not just a dish but a cherished memory.

Ingredients for stuffed pasta shells

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Jumbo Pasta Shells: Go big or go home! These large shells are perfect for holding all that delicious filling.
• Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness and is the star player in our stuffing game.
• Shredded Mozzarella: Because everything is better with melty cheese on top!
• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of this nutty cheese elevates the flavor profile, making it oh-so-delicious.
• Fresh Spinach: Not only does this add color, but it also provides some healthy greens.
• Your Favorite Marinara Sauce: Store-bought or homemade—just make sure it’s packed with flavor.
• Garlic Powder: A must-have seasoning that brings everything together beautifully.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that can’t be forgotten; they enhance the overall taste!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make stuffed pasta shells

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, grab a large pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook those jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until they’re al dente—firm enough to hold their shape but soft enough to be filled.

Step 2: Prepare Your Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh spinach, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and set aside while you dream about how amazing these will taste soon!

Step 3: Stuff Those Shells

Once your pasta has cooled slightly (because no one wants burnt fingers), carefully stuff each shell with about a tablespoon of your cheesy filling mixture. Place them in a greased baking dish snugly together so they can share warmth during baking.

Step 4: Add Marinara Sauce

Pour your favorite marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Don’t skimp here! Make sure every shell is bathed in that rich goodness. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top because we obviously need more cheese.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil (shiny side down) and pop it in the oven for about 25 minutes. After that time’s up, remove the foil and bake for another additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let them cool for just a few minutes (if you can wait!). Serve hot with extra marinara on the side and maybe some crusty bread if you feel fancy.

So there you have it! A platter full of delicious stuffed pasta shells ready to impress friends or simply satisfy your own cravings after a long day. Whether paired with a side salad or enjoyed solo while binge-watching your favorite show, these beauties are sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve stuffed pasta shells perfection, start by boiling the shells while browning the ground meat. Prepare the sauce simultaneously for maximum efficiency. Once everything’s cooked, stuff those shells and let them bask in cheesy goodness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ricotta for cottage cheese if you’re feeling adventurous. You can also add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Spice it up with different herbs or even some crushed red pepper if you want to make your taste buds dance.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover stuffed pasta shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes—add extra cheese if you’re feeling indulgent.

Sometimes I bake stuffed pasta shells on a rainy day and reminisce about my grandma’s kitchen filled with laughter and warm aromas. Those memories make every bite taste like home!

FAQs:

What are stuffed pasta shells?

Stuffed pasta shells are large pasta tubes filled with a variety of delicious ingredients. Common fillings include ricotta cheese, spinach, ground meat, and marinara sauce. They are typically baked in a savory sauce until heated through and the flavors meld together. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, as it can be prepared in advance and easily served to a crowd.

How do you cook stuffed pasta shells?

To cook stuffed pasta shells, start by boiling them in salted water until al dente. Drain the shells and let them cool slightly before filling them with your desired mixture, such as cheese and herbs. Place the filled shells in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce, and sprinkle with cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Can you freeze stuffed pasta shells?

Yes, you can freeze stuffed pasta shells for later use. After assembling the dish but before baking, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Make sure to label it with the date. When ready to eat, simply bake from frozen; you may need to extend the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes.

What variations can I make for stuffed pasta shells?

There are countless variations for stuffed pasta shells! You can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or feta, add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, or use various proteins like chicken or sausage. For a lighter option, try using a cream sauce instead of tomato sauce. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to customize this dish to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion for stuffed pasta shells:

Stuffed pasta shells offer a versatile and delicious meal option that is easy to prepare and customize. With various fillings and sauces available, this dish caters to both meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and frozen for later use. By following simple cooking techniques and experimenting with flavors, you can create a delightful dining experience that will impress family and friends alike. Enjoy making these delightful stuffed pasta shells!

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Stuffed Pasta Shells

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Stuffed pasta shells are a comforting and versatile dish, perfect for family meals or gatherings. These jumbo shells are generously filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, topped with zesty marinara sauce, and baked until bubbly. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors that will transport you back to cherished memories of home-cooked meals. Whether you serve them at a dinner party or enjoy them on a cozy night in, these stuffed pasta shells are sure to impress.

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Ingredients

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• 12 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the jumbo pasta shells in boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Stuff each shell with about one tablespoon of the filling mixture and arrange them in a greased baking dish.
4. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
6. Let cool slightly before serving with extra marinara on the side.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 stuffed shells (about 250g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 19g
• Cholesterol: 50mg