Stuffed shells are a delightful dish that combine the comforting elements of pasta, cheese, and sauce into a single, delicious bite. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking to indulge in a savory meal with your family, this recipe for stuffed shells is perfect for any occasion. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the five easy steps to perfect stuffed shells, ensuring that your culinary creation is not only visually appealing but also irresistibly tasty.
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- 1 box of jumbo pasta shells
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 egg, beaten
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups marinara sauce
Begin by gathering all the ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Fresh, high-quality ingredients will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until they are al dente—not fully cooked but with a bite. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and help the shells hold their shape for stuffing.
🔁 Note: Remember to undercook the pasta slightly; it will continue cooking in the oven, and you don’t want your shells to be mushy.
Step 3: Make the Ricotta Filling
In a bowl, combine ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully integrated. This filling should be creamy and full of flavor.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells
Using a spoon or piping bag, stuff each shell with the ricotta mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish with a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom. Place the shells opening side up to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Top with the remaining cup of mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C), and bake for an additional 10 minutes to achieve that perfect golden top.
🔔 Note: If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before the final 10-minute bake.
After following these steps, you'll have a dish that not only smells divine but also looks gourmet. The combination of the smooth ricotta filling, the tangy marinara sauce, and the melted mozzarella creates a symphony of flavors that is bound to impress. This dish can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for entertaining or for those hectic weeknights when you need a comforting, yet quick meal.
Throughout this culinary journey, we've not only learned the art of creating stuffed shells but also understood the importance of preparation, timing, and the love infused into each step. Whether served as a main course or a side, this dish speaks volumes of home-cooked goodness. It's a testament to the fact that sometimes, simplicity, combined with quality ingredients, can yield extraordinary results.
Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?
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Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells and keep them refrigerated, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
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If ricotta isn’t available, cottage cheese can be a good substitute. Blend it to achieve a smoother texture before mixing with the other ingredients.
How do I store leftover stuffed shells?
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Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven to keep the cheese melted and the shells tender.
Can I freeze stuffed shells?
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Yes, stuffed shells freeze well. Assemble the dish as instructed but do not bake. Cover tightly with foil and freeze. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and add an additional 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
