why make this recipe
Stuffed shells are a delightful and filling dish that everyone loves. They are perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even just a cozy meal at home. This recipe combines creamy cheeses and savory marinara sauce, making it a comforting favorite. Plus, it’s easy to customize, so you can make it just the way you like!
how to make Stuffed Shells
Ingredients :
- Large pasta shells
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Cream cheese
- Marinara sauce
- Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Pepper
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each pasta shell with the cheese mixture.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in the dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle with additional mozzarella if desired, and bake for another 10-15 minutes until bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
how to serve Stuffed Shells
Serve the stuffed shells hot from the oven. They look beautiful topped with fresh parsley. You can pair them with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy!
how to store Stuffed Shells
If you have leftovers, let the stuffed shells cool completely. Then, cover them or transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just reheat in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
tips to make Stuffed Shells
- Make sure to cook the pasta shells just until al dente so they don’t become too soft during baking.
- You can mix in some spinach or other veggies into the cheese filling for added flavor and nutrition.
- For a bit of spice, try adding crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
variation
Feel free to change up the cheese! You can use different types of cheese like goat cheese or add some shredded chicken for extra protein. You can also experiment with different sauces, like pesto or Alfredo, instead of marinara.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like manicotti or even large rigatoni if you can’t find shells.
Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just remember to bake them longer if they are cold when you put them in the oven.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
You can use cottage cheese or blend soft tofu if you need a different option. Both can work well in this recipe!
Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful and filling stuffed pasta shells filled with creamy cheeses and savory marinara sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 Large pasta shells
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Cream cheese
- 2 cups Marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Pepper
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each pasta shell with the cheese mixture.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in the dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle with additional mozzarella if desired, and bake for another 10-15 minutes until bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
For added flavor and nutrition, you can mix in some spinach or other veggies into the cheese filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: stuffed shells, pasta, Italian, vegetarian, family dinner
