Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a comforting, delicious meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve come to the right place! These Stuffed Shells are an absolute favorite in my kitchen. They’re filled with a creamy 4-cheese blend and paired with sautéed garlic and fresh spinach, making them a delightful option for busy weeknights or festive family gatherings. The best part? You can prepare them ahead of time and even freeze them for later!

Imagine gathering around the table, forks clinking and laughter filling the air as everyone enjoys these cheesy wonders. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something satisfying, this recipe will surely become a cherished staple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps, these stuffed shells come together quickly, making dinner stress-free.
• Family-Friendly: The cheesy goodness is a hit with kids and adults alike—who can resist cheesy pasta?
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance for those busy evenings when you want something tasty without the fuss.
• Freezer Friendly: Double the batch and freeze some for later; you’ll thank yourself on those hectic days!
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of cheeses and Italian spices creates an irresistible flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these Stuffed Shells is easy with just a handful of wholesome ingredients. Most of these are pantry staples or readily available at your local grocery store! Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Pasta

• 18-20 jumbo pasta shells (boil extra in case some break)

For the Filling

• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups spinach
• 15 oz. Ricotta
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 3 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded and divided)
• 2 Tablespoons cream cheese
• 1 egg

For Assembly

• 24 ounces marinara sauce
• Fresh parsley (to garnish)
• ½ tsp Salt
• ¼ tsp pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and make it your own. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Change the cheese: Swap out ricotta for cottage cheese or add feta for a tangy twist.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes to the filling if you like a little kick in your dish.
• Use different sauces: Try pesto instead of marinara for a unique flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the cheeses.

How to Make Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees. This step ensures that your stuffed shells will bake evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

Boil the jumbo pasta shells in salted water, cooking them for one minute less than al dente. This prevents overcooking since they will finish baking in the oven. After boiling, drain and rinse them gently under cold water until cool. Set them aside while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Spinach

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and add minced garlic. Sauté it for about one minute until fragrant. Then toss in the spinach, cooking until wilted—around three minutes should do the trick. This step not only adds flavor but also ensures your spinach is perfectly cooked.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese with seasonings using a silicone spatula. Stir in half of the mozzarella and most of the grated Parmesan (reserve some for topping). Add cream cheese and an egg; mix well! Finally, fold in that lovely sautéed spinach and garlic mixture. This filling is what makes your stuffed shells so creamy and flavorful!

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Spread half of your marinara sauce at the bottom of your baking dish or skillet. Use a spoon to fill each pasta shell generously with that delicious cheese mixture before placing it snugly into the dish.

Step 6: Top It Off

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over all those beautiful stuffed shells, then sprinkle on the leftover mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This creates that bubbly, golden crust we all love!

Step 7: Bake Until Perfect

Cover your dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the cover and bake for another 10 minutes until it’s bubbling hot and golden brown on top. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley before serving!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these mouthwatering Stuffed Shells! Serve them alongside some cheesy garlic bread for an unforgettable meal!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Shells

Making stuffed shells is a delightful way to bring comfort food to your table, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right pasta: Opting for jumbo shells ensures a generous amount of filling can be packed inside. This way, each bite is bursting with cheesy goodness.

• Don’t overcook the shells: Cooking the pasta just under al dente keeps them sturdy enough to hold the filling while baking, preventing any breakage that could lead to a messy presentation.

• Let the filling cool slightly: Allowing the spinach and garlic mixture to cool before combining it with other ingredients prevents the egg from cooking prematurely, ensuring a smooth and creamy filling.

• Use fresh herbs when possible: Fresh parsley or basil can add a vibrant flavor and color that dried herbs might not replicate. It enhances both the taste and visual appeal of your dish.

• Make-ahead magic: As mentioned earlier, these shells are freezer-friendly! Assemble them in advance and freeze before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake them straight from the freezer (adding a bit of extra time).

How to Serve Stuffed Shells

Serving stuffed shells is all about presentation and pairing. Here are some ideas to make your meal truly special!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Grated Parmesan: A light sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness that complements the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread with Cheese: Perfectly crispy garlic bread pairs wonderfully with stuffed shells, allowing you to soak up every drop of marinara sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A refreshing Caesar salad adds crunch and tanginess, balancing out the rich flavors of the stuffed shells.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots provide a nutritious side that complements this hearty dish.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli not only adds color but also offers a healthy green element that rounds out your meal perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and tips in hand, you’re ready to create an inviting dining experience that everyone will love. Enjoy your delicious stuffed shells!

Make Ahead and Storage

These stuffed shells are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, store leftovers, or even freeze them for future meals.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Assemble the stuffed shells but do not bake them.
• Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 375 degrees.
• If frozen, allow the shells to thaw completely before reheating.
• Cover with foil and bake for about 25 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to crisp up the cheese.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making stuffed shells that might help you out!

Can I use different cheese in Stuffed Shells?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix it up with any cheeses you enjoy. Just remember that different cheeses may alter the flavor and texture slightly.

How long do Stuffed Shells last in the fridge?

Stuffed shells can last in your refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I prepare Stuffed Shells without spinach?

Yes! You can skip the spinach entirely or substitute it with other veggies like mushrooms or zucchini if you prefer.

What is a good side dish for Stuffed Shells?

Garlic bread or a fresh garden salad complements stuffed shells beautifully, making for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for stuffed shells brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table! It’s a delightful dish that’s not only easy to make but also perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy filling those pasta shells with cheesy goodness, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!