Italian Stuffed Shells
Italian Stuffed Shells — a dish that perfectly embodies the essence of comfort food! Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, these pasta shells bring warmth to any dining table. Did you know that the origins of stuffed pasta date back to the 13th century in Italy? Imagine this: a lazy Sunday afternoon with the aroma of marinara filling the air while you prepare this delightful dish. It’s a recipe that invites families to gather around, share stories, and indulge in deliciousness.
What makes Italian Stuffed Shells so special is their simplicity combined with rich, comforting flavors. They require little prep time, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. If you’ve enjoyed recipes like Spinach Ricotta Ravioli, you’ll appreciate how these stuffed shells also deliver a delightful mix of textures and flavors. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to delight your taste buds with this easy recipe that’s sure to impress everyone at your table!
What Are Italian Stuffed Shells?
So, you might be wondering, what exactly are Italian Stuffed Shells? Well, imagine large pasta shells, perfectly al dente, filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and spinach, then smothered in marinara sauce and baked to perfection! Doesn’t that sound divine? The name alone makes your mouth water! It’s like a cozy hug wrapped in a pasta shell—it’s no wonder we say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.”
These delightful shells are often a family favorite, bringing hearts (and stomachs) together at the dinner table. So, why not give them a try? I promise you, your loved ones will be talking about your cooking skills for weeks!
Why You’ll Love Italian Stuffed Shells
When it comes to Italian Stuffed Shells, three significant highlights make them unforgettable! First, the rich, cheesy filling is undeniably the star of the show. Just imagine diving into those soft pasta shells with each mouthful bursting with creamy ricotta and tangy marinara sauce—yum! Next, making them at home is budget-friendly. Instead of heading to an Italian restaurant, you can whip up this impressive dish without breaking the bank.
Finally, the flexibility of ingredients is a game-changer! Feel free to embellish your mix further with fresh basil, sautéed mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan. Want to elevate your dish? Try it alongside a classic Caesar salad or a refreshing Caprese salad. Ready to explore more? Check out my delicious Lasagna recipe for another family hit!
How to Make Italian Stuffed Shells
Quick Overview
Italian Stuffed Shells are a breeze to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights. With a soft and cheesy interior, a tangy marinara sauce, and a golden-baked topping, they’re simply irresistible! You can expect to whip up these delicious shells in about 45 minutes—perfect for those evenings when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients for Italian Stuffed Shells
To create your Italian Stuffed Shells, you will need:
- 12-15 large pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, beaten egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Fill the Shells: Using a spoon, carefully fill each shell with the ricotta mixture. Don’t be shy; make them generous!
- Layer the Sauce: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the filled shells on top and cover them with the remaining marinara sauce.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the shells.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
What to Serve Italian Stuffed Shells With
These Italian Stuffed Shells pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them alongside a crisp Caesar salad drizzled with creamy dressing for crunch. Garlic bread is always a hit—who can say no to warm, buttery bread to scoop up that marinara sauce? For a refreshing touch, a side of sautéed vegetables or a mixed greens salad will balance out the richness. And let’s not forget about a glass of your favorite Italian red wine or sparkling water!
Top Tips for Perfecting Italian Stuffed Shells
To make your Italian Stuffed Shells truly outstanding, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Ensure your shells are al dente so they hold their shape when filled and baked.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add other delicious fillings, such as cooked ground turkey, artichokes, or sundried tomatoes for a unique twist.
- Extra Flavor: Sprinkle some fresh herbs on top after baking for added freshness and color.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftovers (which are unlikely, but let’s hope), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them back in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
For long-term storage, consider freezing the stuffed shells before baking. Assemble everything in a freezer-friendly dish and cover it well. They will keep for up to three months. To cook from frozen, bake at 375°F for about 50-60 minutes, covered, and then uncover to finish baking.
Now that you have this Italian Stuffed Shells recipe, it’s time to dive into a delicious world of flavors and simple preparation. Gather your family and friends, get cooking, and most importantly, enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite!
Italian Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, beaten egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Using a spoon, carefully fill each shell with the ricotta mixture.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the filled shells on top and cover them with the remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the shells.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
