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Stuffed Shells Recipe

Delicious Stuffed Shells Recipe for Comforting Family Meals

This comforting Stuffed Shells Recipe features cheesy ricotta-filled pasta shells and rich marinara sauce, perfect for family gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Shells
  • 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells Cook according to package instructions.
For the Filling
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese is a great alternative.
  • 1 large Egg Can be omitted for vegan option.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be used for dairy-free.
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Consider dairy-free cheese blends.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Fresh basil can work as a substitute.
For the Sauce
  • 24 ounces Marinara Sauce Homemade or store-bought.
  • 1 medium Onion Shallots can be used for milder flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Garlic powder can be a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Kosher salt is preferred.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper White pepper can replace for a different kick.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Italian seasoning can be swapped.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Casserole Dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Stuffed Shells Recipe
  1. Preheat your oven to 375˚F (190˚C). In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until golden (5-7 minutes). Stir in minced garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano, cooking for another minute. Pour in marinara sauce and let simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 2 cups of mozzarella, parmesan, egg, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper, stirring until blended.
  4. Fill each cooked shell with the cheese mixture. Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a casserole dish, place filled shells in a single layer, drizzle remaining sauce on top, and sprinkle leftover mozzarella.
  5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and broil for 2-4 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  6. Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 28gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Expert Tips: Don't overstuff shells to avoid spills. Use an ice cream scoop for easy filling. Preheat dish to prevent breaking during broiling. Assemble and freeze for later enjoyment. Add spinach for nutrition and flavor.

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