Stuffed shells are pasta shells filled with a yummy mixture of cheese, spinach, and herbs, all baked in a tasty sauce. They’re like a cozy hug for your taste buds!
Why do I love making stuffed shells? Because they are simple, fun to fill, and everyone loves them! Plus, there’s always room for extra cheese on top—who doesn’t love that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta Shells: Large pasta shells are perfect for stuffing. If you can’t find them, jumbo macaroni or even manicotti work well, too!
Ricotta Cheese: This cheese provides the creamy base. If you’re lactose intolerant, try lactose-free ricotta or cottage cheese for a similar effect.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. Frozen spinach is a great time-saver; just make sure to drain it well. You can also use kale or Swiss chard!
Cheese: Mozzarella makes it cheesy and gooey. For a richer flavor, try using provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is fine, but if you have a favorite homemade recipe, go for it! A marinara with extra herbs adds a nice touch.
How Do I Get the Shells Perfectly Stuffed?
Stuffing the shells just right can be a bit tricky. Here are some tips to help you out:
- Use a spoon or a piping bag to fill each shell. This makes it easier and less messy!
- Don’t overfill—2 tablespoons of filling is usually just right. You want them stuffed, but not overflowing.
- Arranging them neatly in the baking dish helps with even cooking and looks nicer when serving.
By following these simple tips, your stuffed shells will be a hit at the dinner table! Enjoy!
Stuffed Shells
Ingredients You Will Need:
For the Stuffed Shells:
- 20 large pasta shells
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil (optional, for sautéing garlic and spinach)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This stuffed shells recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 40 minutes for baking. So, you’ll be ready to enjoy a delicious dinner in about 1 hour and 10 minutes. A great way to savor a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pasta:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, cook the pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package directions until they are al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the shells and let them cool a bit so you can handle them without burning your fingers.
2. Sauté the Spinach:
If you’re using fresh spinach, heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the spinach and cook until it’s wilted. If you’re using frozen spinach, just make sure it’s well-thawed and drained before adding to the mixture. Once done, remove it from the heat and let it cool a little.
3. Make the Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, ½ cup of mozzarella, ¼ cup of Parmesan, the cooked spinach and garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s all well combined and smooth.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Now, it’s time to stuff those shells! Take each cooked shell and fill it with about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells nicely in the baking dish on top of the marinara sauce.
5. Top and Bake:
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells evenly. Then, sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Garnish your stuffed shells with fresh chopped parsley, and serve them warm. Enjoy this comforting, cheesy treat with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While ricotta is traditional, you can substitute it with cottage cheese for a lighter option. Mix in different cheeses like goat cheese, cream cheese, or a blend of Italian cheeses to customize the flavor!
Can I Prepare Stuffed Shells in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time! Assemble everything and cover tightly. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
How to Freeze Leftovers?
To freeze leftovers, let the shells cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
What Can I Serve with Stuffed Shells?
Stuffed shells pair wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve them with additional marinara or a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for an extra burst of flavor!
