Italian Stuffed Shells are like little pillows of joy, bursting with cheesy goodness and comforting flavors. Picture a warm, savory hug that wraps around your taste buds, sending you straight to culinary paradise. crispy cheesy stromboli Each bite offers a delightful crunch from the shells, followed by creamy ricotta and tangy marinara sauce—a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate.
As I reminisce about family gatherings, I can almost hear my grandmother’s laughter as she ladled her homemade marinara over a tray of stuffed shells. These Italian delights were always the star of the show, perfect for cozy nights in or festive celebrations. healthy cauliflower mash Trust me when I say these Italian Stuffed Shells will have you dreaming of Italy with every forkful!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe for Italian Stuffed Shells is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying.
- The layers of flavor from the cheese and sauce create a mouthwatering experience.
- Visually stunning with vibrant colors, they will impress any guest at your dinner table.
- Plus, they are versatile enough to customize according to your favorite fillings or dietary preferences.
Ingredients for Italian Stuffed Shells
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Jumbo Pasta Shells: These large shells hold all the cheesy goodness and are perfect for stuffing.
- Ricotta Cheese: A creamy filling that adds richness and balances the flavors beautifully.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: It melts perfectly and gives that gooey texture we all crave.
- Parmesan Cheese: Aged Parmesan adds a nutty flavor and complements the other cheeses wonderfully.
- Fresh Spinach: Adds a pop of color and nutrition; you can use frozen if needed.
For the Sauce:
- Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought variety or make your own for an extra touch!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Italian Stuffed Shells
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt generously (like you’re at the beach!) and then toss in those jumbo pasta shells. Cook them until just al dente; you want them firm enough to hold stuffing without falling apart—about eight minutes should do it.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped fresh spinach, salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Get ready to channel your inner Italian nonna as you stir this creamy concoction together until well combined.
Step 3: Preheat Your Oven
While you’re working on your filling masterpiece, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a baking dish and spread about half of your marinara sauce on the bottom—this will keep those shells from sticking like glue.
Step 4: Stuff Those Shells
Carefully take each shell and fill it with a generous spoonful of your cheesy mixture. Place them seam-side up in the baking dish like little soldiers awaiting their saucy blanket.
Step 5: Cover with Sauce
Once all shells are snugly in place, pour the remaining marinara sauce over them, ensuring they’re all cozy and covered. Sprinkle any remaining mozzarella cheese on top because who doesn’t love more cheese?
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil (shiny side down) and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional ten minutes until bubbly and golden brown—let those cheesy dreams come true!
To serve, let them cool for a few minutes before dishing out onto plates. Drizzle with extra marinara if desired for that perfect finishing touch!
With these steps completed, you’ve created a plate full of delicious Italian Stuffed Shells that will have everyone asking for seconds—or thirds! Enjoy this delightful dish paired with crusty bread or a simple green salad for an unforgettable meal experience!
You Must Know
- Italian stuffed shells are a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and textures.
- They are perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, and you can easily adjust the filling to suit your taste.
- Plus, they look beautiful on the plate, making every meal feel special.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, cook the pasta shells until al dente while preparing the filling. Once you have your filling ready, stuff each shell generously before layering them in a baking dish with sauce. Bake until bubbly and golden for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences. Consider using ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese or adding spinach for extra nutrition. You can even throw in some Italian sausage if you’re feeling adventurous!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Italian stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring they stay cheesy and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh herbs for flavor; they make a significant difference compared to dried ones.
- Avoid overcooking the pasta shells; they should be firm enough to hold the filling.
- Add a sprinkle of mozzarella on top before baking for a gooey finish.
I once made these Italian stuffed shells for a family gathering, and my cousin declared it was his new favorite dish! The way everyone devoured them left me feeling like a culinary rock star that day.
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for Italian Stuffed Shells?
To make delicious Italian stuffed shells, you will need large pasta shells, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and your favorite marinara sauce. Fresh herbs like basil and parsley add flavor. You can also include ground meat or vegetables for added texture. Ensure you have salt and pepper for seasoning. The combination of these ingredients creates a rich filling that pairs perfectly with the marinara sauce. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
How long do I need to bake Italian Stuffed Shells?
Baking Italian stuffed shells typically takes about 25 to 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before placing the stuffed shells inside. Cover them with foil for the first half of baking to keep them moist. For the last few minutes, remove the foil to let the cheese get bubbly and golden brown. This timing ensures that your shells are hot throughout and the flavors meld beautifully.
Can I make Italian Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Italian stuffed shells in advance. Assemble the shells with the filling and place them in a baking dish. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, simply add extra baking time since they will be cold from the fridge. Alternatively, you can freeze them unbaked. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking for best results.
What can I serve with Italian Stuffed Shells?
Italian stuffed shells pair wonderfully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread. A simple Caesar salad or a Caprese salad complements the rich flavors of the dish without overpowering it. You might also consider serving roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli for added nutrition. A glass of red wine enhances the overall dining experience, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or special occasions.
Conclusion for Italian Stuffed Shells:
Italian stuffed shells are a culinary delight that combines rich flavors with comforting textures. With an easy-to-follow recipe, you can enjoy this classic dish any night of the week. Remember to customize your filling based on personal preferences, whether using meat, vegetables, or a combination of both. comforting chicken soup Baking them to perfection creates an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen and delights your taste buds. Enjoy these stuffed shells as part of a hearty meal that brings family and friends together around the table!
Italian Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Italian Stuffed Shells are a comforting and delicious dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your table. These jumbo pasta shells are generously filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta and mozzarella cheese, fresh spinach, and topped with rich marinara sauce. Baked until bubbly and golden, they make an impressive meal for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil salted water in a large pot, cook pasta shells until al dente (about 8 minutes), then drain.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until combined.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce in a baking dish. Stuff each shell with the filling and place seam-side up in the dish.
- Pour remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed shell (133g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Feel free to customize your filling by adding ground meat or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor. Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.