Stuffed shells are an Italian classic that combines the comfort of pasta with the richness of cheese, sauce, and various fillings. Bartolli, a renowned pasta brand, offers large, beautifully textured shells perfect for stuffing with a variety of delicious ingredients. If you're looking to expand your culinary repertoire with some delectable stuffed shell recipes, here are seven Bartolli stuffed shell creations that are not only easy to make but sure to impress your guests.
Pumpkin and Sausage Stuffed Shells
Fall flavors come alive in this dish where Bartolli pasta shells meet the sweet, earthy notes of pumpkin with the savory essence of Italian sausage. Here’s how to make it:
- Cook 20-25 Bartolli jumbo shells according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, cook 1 pound of Italian sausage until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté 1 chopped onion until translucent, then add 1 can of pumpkin puree, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 beaten egg, 1/2 cup of Parmesan, and your sausage. Season with nutmeg, sage, and salt.
- Stuff the cooked Bartolli shells with the mixture.
- Layer the stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes.
🍂 Note: This dish is ideal for fall dinners or Thanksgiving; the nutmeg and sage add warmth to the flavor profile.
Spinach and Ricotta Cheese Stuffed Shells
A timeless, vegetarian-friendly option:
- Boil 20 Bartolli jumbo shells until al dente. Drain and cool.
- In a bowl, mix 2 cups of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of chopped cooked spinach, 1/2 cup of Parmesan, 1 beaten egg, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each shell with the ricotta mixture.
- Arrange in a baking dish, top with tomato sauce and mozzarella, then bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.
Three-Cheese Stuffed Shells
If you love cheese, this recipe is for you:
- Cook 20-25 Bartolli jumbo shells.
- Combine 1 cup ricotta, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, 1 beaten egg, and some chopped parsley in a bowl.
- Stuff the shells with the cheese mixture.
- Layer in a baking dish, cover with Alfredo sauce, and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
🧀 Note: If you prefer a lighter taste, try a cream-based Alfredo sauce instead of the traditional marinara.
Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Shells
This seafood delight brings a touch of elegance to the table:
- Prepare 20 Bartolli jumbo shells as per instructions.
- Mix 1 cup ricotta, 1/2 cup lump crab meat, 1/2 cup chopped cooked shrimp, 1 egg, lemon zest, and Old Bay seasoning.
- Stuff the shells with the seafood mixture.
- Top with Alfredo sauce and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes.
Mushroom and Goat Cheese Stuffed Shells
This gourmet dish offers a symphony of flavors:
- Boil 20 Bartolli jumbo shells and set aside.
- Sauté 2 cups of sliced mushrooms with garlic, then mix with 1 cup goat cheese, 1/4 cup Parmesan, and chives. Season to taste.
- Fill the Bartolli shells with the mushroom-cheese mixture.
- Arrange in a dish, top with tomato sauce, and bake at 375°F for 35 minutes.
Lentil and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A hearty, vegetarian option:
- Cook 20 Bartolli jumbo shells.
- Mix 1 cup cooked lentils, 1 cup cooked spinach, 1 cup ricotta, 1/4 cup feta, and spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika.
- Stuff the shells with the lentil mixture.
- Top with a tomato-based sauce and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.
Mediterranean Stuffed Shells
Mediterranean flavors meet pasta in this vibrant dish:
- Prepare 20 Bartolli jumbo shells.
- Combine 1 cup ricotta, 1/2 cup feta, diced tomatoes, olives, spinach, and herbs like basil and oregano.
- Stuff the shells with the Mediterranean mixture.
- Layer in a dish, top with a light lemon-tomato sauce, and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes.
These Bartolli stuffed shell recipes are a testament to the versatility of Bartolli's jumbo pasta shells. Each recipe offers a unique flavor profile, suitable for various occasions and dietary preferences. From the robust flavors of the Pumpkin and Sausage Stuffed Shells to the gentle sophistication of the Mediterranean Stuffed Shells, you can impress your family and friends with these dishes. The ease of preparation, coupled with the delightful taste, makes Bartolli's stuffed shell recipes a staple in the modern kitchen. They can cater to vegetarian, meat-lovers, or those seeking something a bit more gourmet. Remember to adjust the filling and sauces according to your taste, and don't hesitate to experiment with these seven delicious Bartolli stuffed shell recipes you'll love.
Can I prepare Bartolli stuffed shells ahead of time?
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Yes, Bartolli stuffed shells can be assembled a day ahead, covered, and refrigerated. You can bake them directly from the fridge or let them come to room temperature before baking.
Are Bartolli stuffed shells freezer-friendly?
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Indeed, they freeze well. Just prepare the dish, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze. When ready to eat, you can bake from frozen, adding extra time to the bake.
What are some good side dishes to serve with Bartolli stuffed shells?
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Excellent pairings include a fresh Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or an antipasto platter. These sides complement the richness of stuffed shells.
Can I use different fillings for Bartolli stuffed shells?
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Absolutely, the filling in Bartolli shells is flexible. Experiment with various cheeses, vegetables, meats, or even different sauces to find your favorite combination.
