Easy Stuffed Shells Recipe

Dive into the comforting flavors of homemade Stuffed Shells, a beloved Italian pasta dish that’s a true crowd-pleaser. This easy-to-follow recipe showcases the perfect balance of rich cheese, fresh herbs, and a delectable baked pasta experience. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving a cozy night in, these stuffed shells are sure to delight your taste buds and satisfy your cravings for a hearty, homemade meal.

The beauty of stuffed shells lies in their versatility and ease of preparation. Large pasta shells are generously stuffed with a flavorful ricotta and spinach mixture, then smothered in marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese for an irresistible bite. The dish is baked until bubbly and golden, making it a perfect comfort food option for any occasion. Best of all, it’s a dish that can be prepped ahead of time and popped in the oven when you’re ready to eat, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple Ingredients

This recipe uses easy-to-find ingredients, many of which you may already have in your kitchen, making it both affordable and convenient.

2. Comfort Food at Its Best

Stuffed shells are the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy cheese, savory tomato sauce, and tender pasta into one satisfying dish.

3. Family-Friendly

This recipe is a hit with both adults and kids, making it perfect for family meals or gatherings.

4. Make Ahead and Freezer-Friendly

Stuffed shells can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer, making meal prep a breeze for busy days.

5. Customizable

Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like ground meat, extra vegetables, or different cheeses to make this dish your own.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Shells:

• Large pasta shells
• Ricotta cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh spinach (or frozen spinach)
• Fresh parsley
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Egg
• Salt and pepper

For the Sauce:

• Marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Garlic (optional)
• Olive oil (optional)

Variations

• Meat Lovers: Add cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage to the ricotta mixture for a heartier filling.
• Vegetarian: Include sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
• Cheese Variations: Swap in other cheeses like provolone, gouda, or even goat cheese for a different twist on the flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and cook the pasta shells according to the package directions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, fresh spinach (sautéed if fresh, thawed if frozen), egg, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

Carefully stuff each cooked shell with the ricotta mixture, ensuring the filling is packed into the center of the shell.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of the sauce. Spoon more marinara sauce over the shells and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy with a side of garlic bread or a green salad.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the shells will be baked, cook them slightly less than al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft.
• Thoroughly Drain the Spinach: If using frozen spinach, make sure to squeeze out all excess water before adding it to the filling.
• Use a Rich Marinara: The sauce makes a big difference in the flavor, so opt for a high-quality marinara or homemade sauce if possible.
• Make it Saucy: If you like extra sauce, feel free to add more marinara on top before baking for a saucier dish.

How to Serve

Serve these Stuffed Shells with a side of crusty garlic bread or a fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette for a well-rounded meal. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil on top adds the perfect finishing touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers:

Store any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven covered with foil to keep them from drying out.

Freezing:

To freeze, assemble the stuffed shells but do not bake them. Instead, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, remove from the freezer, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, and bake as instructed.

Reheating:

Reheat baked stuffed shells in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the bake time.

FAQs

1. Can I use gluten-free pasta shells?

Yes, you can substitute gluten-free pasta shells for a gluten-free version of this recipe.

2. Can I add meat to the filling?

Yes, ground beef, turkey, or sausage can be added to the ricotta mixture for a heartier dish.

3. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well in this recipe, just make sure to squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the filling.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

5. What other cheese can I use besides ricotta?

You can use cottage cheese, mascarpone, or even cream cheese as a substitute for ricotta.

6. Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Yes, you can freeze assembled stuffed shells before baking. Wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

7. How do I know when the stuffed shells are done?

The stuffed shells are done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

8. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, store-bought marinara sauce is perfectly fine, but homemade sauce can add an extra layer of flavor.

9. How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and skip the cheese in the filling for a dairy-free version of stuffed shells.

10. Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes, feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the ricotta filling for extra flavor.

Conclusion

These Easy Stuffed Shells are the perfect combination of cheesy goodness, savory tomato sauce, and tender pasta. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or for a special family gathering, this dish is sure to impress. With its make-ahead and customizable options, it’s a recipe you’ll keep coming back to for years to come. Enjoy every bite of this comforting classic!

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