Classic Stuffed Shells are the kind of dish that makes your kitchen smell like a cozy Italian trattoria, filled with the rich aroma of marinara sauce and bubbling cheese. Picture this: giant pasta shells generously stuffed with creamy ricotta, tangy mozzarella, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It’s the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly evening, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you just need some comfort food after a long day.
Now, let me take you down memory lane. There was a time when I attempted to make Classic Stuffed Shells for the first time. Let’s just say my kitchen looked like a cheesy explosion had taken place. But amidst the chaos, I discovered that cooking can be messy but oh-so-rewarding! Whether it’s serving these beauties at a Sunday family dinner or enjoying them solo during a Netflix binge-watching session, Classic Stuffed Shells never disappoint.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Classic Stuffed Shells are not only easy to prepare but also offer an irresistible flavor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
- They are incredibly versatile; you can mix up the stuffing based on your preferences or what’s in your fridge.
- Visually stunning, with their vibrant colors and melted cheese topping, they make any table shine.
- Perfect for gatherings or simply indulging in a comforting meal at home!
Ingredients for Classic Stuffed Shells
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Jumbo Pasta Shells: These large shells are perfect for holding all that cheesy goodness inside.
- Ricotta Cheese: Creamy and rich, ricotta adds that essential Italian flair to your filling.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This melty cheese is what dreams are made of—perfect for topping your stuffed shells.
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan adds depth and nuttiness to your filling.
- Fresh Spinach: Adds color and nutrients while balancing out the richness of the cheeses.
- Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce to coat those shells.
- Garlic Powder: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that brings the essence of Italy straight to your kitchen.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Classic Stuffed Shells
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil water in a large pot and add salt. Cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside on parchment paper to cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh spinach, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should look like it belongs in an Instagram food post!
Step 3: Stuff Those Shells
Carefully take each cooked shell and fill it with about two tablespoons of the cheesy mixture. Don’t be shy; those shells want to be packed! Place each stuffed shell seam side up into a baking dish coated with marinara sauce.
Step 4: Top It Off
Once all shells are stuffed and nestled into the sauce like little cheesy babies, pour more marinara sauce over them. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top because no one said too much cheese was bad.
Step 5: Bake Away!
Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool slightly before serving—if you can resist! Transfer those glorious shells onto plates and drizzle with extra marinara if desired for that perfect finishing touch.
And there you have it! A plate full of Classic Stuffed Shells ready to impress family or friends—or just you after a long day! So dig in and enjoy every cheesy bite!
You Must Know
- These classic stuffed shells are not just a delicious dish; they’re a ticket to flavor town.
- Picture vibrant, cheesy goodness embracing that perfect pasta shell, making every bite an experience.
- They’re perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in when you need comfort food.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking your pasta shells until al dente, then prepare the filling while they cool. Assemble the shells with your favorite cheese blend and marinara sauce, and bake until bubbly for a perfect meal every time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ricotta for cottage cheese if you’re feeling adventurous! Toss in some spinach, ground sausage, or fresh herbs to elevate your classic stuffed shells game. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover classic stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them back into the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For deliciously creamy filling, always use whole milk ricotta instead of part-skim.
- Remember to season your filling generously; it makes all the difference!
- Lastly, don’t skip letting the shells cool before stuffing—this prevents burns and makes handling easier.
I remember the first time I made classic stuffed shells for my friends. They raved about them so much that I thought I’d accidentally stumbled upon a culinary secret worthy of a Michelin star!
FAQs :
What are Classic Stuffed Shells?
Classic stuffed shells are a delicious Italian-American dish featuring large pasta shells filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and herbs. They are typically baked in marinara sauce and topped with more cheese until bubbly and golden. This comforting meal is perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
How do I prepare the filling for Classic Stuffed Shells?
To prepare the filling for classic stuffed shells, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, fresh basil, and an egg in a mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ensure that the mixture is well-blended so every shell gets that rich flavor. It’s essential to use fresh ingredients for the best results.
Can I make Classic Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare classic stuffed shells ahead of time. Assemble them in a baking dish with sauce and cheese, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If you want to freeze them, do so after assembly but before baking; they can last up to three months in the freezer.
What sides go well with Classic Stuffed Shells?
Classic stuffed shells pair beautifully with a simple side salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette. Garlic bread is another favorite accompaniment that complements the dish perfectly. Additionally, steamed vegetables or a side of sautéed greens can balance out the richness of the stuffed shells for a complete meal.
Conclusion for Classic Stuffed Shells :
Classic stuffed shells are an easy yet impressive dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. With their cheesy filling and rich marinara sauce, these pasta beauties are perfect for families or gatherings. You can make them ahead of time, adding convenience to your cooking routine. Whether served with garlic bread or a fresh salad, classic stuffed shells promise satisfaction in every bite. Enjoy this delightful recipe at your next meal!
Classic Stuffed Shells
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Classic Stuffed Shells are a comforting Italian dish featuring creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, topped with rich marinara sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside on parchment paper to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped spinach, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
- Take each cooled shell and fill it with about two tablespoons of the cheesy mixture. Place stuffed shells seam side up in a baking dish coated with marinara sauce.
- Pour additional marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with extra marinara if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (approx. 250g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: - Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter option. - Add cooked ground turkey or chicken for extra protein. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
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