Stuffed shells are a quintessential Italian-American dish that combines the comfort of pasta with a rich filling. These large pasta shells are generously filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and Italian herbs, then baked in a flavorful marinara sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish is sure to impress both guests and loved ones alike.
Ingredients
- 20 large pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cooked spinach, chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (about 3 stuffed shells) contains approximately 350 calories, 18g of protein, 24g of carbohydrates, 20g of fat, and 900mg of sodium.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed shells in the dish, seam side up.
- Cover the shells with the remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top, if desired.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Alternative Ingredients
If you want to make this dish vegetarian, you can substitute the spinach with other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. For a healthier option, consider using whole wheat shells and low-fat cheese.
Serving and Pairings
Stuffed shells can be served alongside a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A glass of red wine pairs beautifully with this dish, enhancing the Italian dining experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. Stuffed shells can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just bake directly from frozen, adding extra time.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture.
- Not seasoning the filling adequately can result in bland shells.
- Using too much sauce can make the dish watery.
- Forgetting to cover with foil can lead to over-browning.
- Not allowing the dish to set for a few minutes before serving can cause the filling to spill out.
Helpful Tips
- Use a piping bag for easy filling of the shells.
- Let the sauce cool slightly before adding to avoid cooking the filling.
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for added freshness.
FAQs
How long can stuffed shells be stored in the fridge?
Stuffed shells can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when kept in an airtight container. It’s best to consume them within this time frame for optimal taste and freshness.
Can I prepare stuffed shells in advance?
Yes, you can prepare stuffed shells ahead of time. Assemble the dish and cover it tightly before refrigerating. Bake when you’re ready to serve, adding a bit of extra time if baking from cold.
What sauces pair well with stuffed shells?
While marinara sauce is traditional, you can also try Alfredo sauce or a creamy pesto sauce. Both options provide a delicious twist to the classic recipe.
Are stuffed shells suitable for freezing?
Yes, stuffed shells can be frozen before or after baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To bake from frozen, add about 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses. Ricotta is a must, but you can add mozzarella, goat cheese, or even feta for unique flavors.
Conclusion
Stuffed shells are more than just a meal; they are a comforting, hearty dish that brings families together. With their creamy filling and rich sauce, they are sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and flavors to make this classic dish your own.
Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
- 20 large pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cooked spinach chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed shells in the dish, seam side up.
- Cover the shells with the remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top, if desired.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Nutrition
