Stuffed shells are big pasta shells filled with creamy cheese and savory herbs. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate! You can top them with your favorite tomato sauce for extra yum.
Making stuffed shells is always a fun kitchen adventure! I love how the cheese melts beautifully, making each bite melt in your mouth. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a little pasta magic on their dinner table? 🍝✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta Shells: Large pasta shells are perfect for holding the filling. If you can’t find them, try using manicotti or even cannelloni as substitutes. They will give a similar stuffed effect, but the texture will vary a bit.
Ricotta Cheese: This is the creamy base of your filling. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, consider cottage cheese instead. Just blend it until smooth. This substitute keeps the texture light.
Shredded Chicken: The chicken adds protein. If you prefer a vegetarian option, skip it entirely or add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients. Feel free to customize based on what you love!
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought marinara is fine, but homemade sauce adds a personal touch. If you’re short on time, try a store-bought sauce that has no added sugar. You can also swap it for Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist!
What’s the Best Way to Stuff Those Shells?
Stuffing the shells can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll master it in no time! Using a spoon or a piping bag can make the process easier. Just follow these steps:
- Use a small spoon to fill the shell, putting about 2 tablespoons of filling in each shell.
- Try a piping bag: Place the cheese mixture in a bag, snip a corner, and squeeze into the shell. It’s quick and mess-free!
- Don’t overfill; it can make the shells burst and make a mess in your sauce!
Take your time, and soon you’ll have a beautiful dish ready for the oven! 😊
How to Make Delicious Stuffed Shells
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 20 large pasta shells
For the Cheese Filling:
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (optional, for a meaty version)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce, divided
For Greasing:
- Olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45 minutes to bake, making a total of about 1 hour. You’ll enjoy a hearty, cheesy dinner that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Before anything else, turn your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it gets nice and hot while you prepare the stuffed shells. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Shells:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until they are al dente, which is about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, carefully drain them and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the shells aside to cool.
3. Make the Cheese Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese, the egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley. If you’re adding chicken, mix in the shredded chicken now too. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of your greased baking dish. Now it’s time to stuff those shells! Take each pasta shell and fill it with about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells open-side up in the baking dish.
5. Add Sauce and Cheese:
Once all the shells are in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Then sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella and ¼ cup of Parmesan on top for that cheesy goodness!
6. Bake:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 25 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil (watch out for steam!) and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with some extra fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve the stuffed shells warm, perhaps with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a delightful meal!
Enjoy your comforting and cheesy stuffed shells! 🍽️
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! You can mix and match your favorite cheeses. Try using a blend of mozzarella and provolone for added flavor, or substitute goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just make sure to keep the same volume for the cheese mixture!
Can I Make Stuffed Shells Vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding some sautéed spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms into the cheese filling for a hearty vegetarian option. The flavors will still be rich and delicious!
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re reheating, do it gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You can add a splash of marinara sauce to keep them moist!
Can I Freeze Stuffed Shells?
Yes, you can! To freeze, assemble the stuffed shells without baking them. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw them in the fridge overnight and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
