Introduction
Easy Stuffed Shells is a classic Italian-inspired dish that is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. This recipe combines large pasta shells filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture, all smothered in marinara sauce and baked to perfection. It’s a comforting, satisfying meal that is simple to prepare yet impressive enough to serve on special occasions.
Overview of the Recipe
This Easy Stuffed Shells recipe is designed for convenience without sacrificing flavor. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of 35 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready in under an hour. The dish features a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses mixed with Italian herbs, stuffed into pasta shells, and baked in marinara sauce. The result is a rich, savory, and creamy dish that will delight your taste buds.
History and Origin
Stuffed shells, or “conchiglioni ripieni” in Italian, have their roots in Italian cuisine, specifically from the Campania region. The large pasta shells, known as conchiglioni, are perfect for holding various fillings, often including cheeses, meats, and vegetables. This dish is a staple in many Italian-American households, where it has been adapted to suit local tastes and ingredient availability. Over time, stuffed shells have become a popular comfort food in many parts of the world, celebrated for their versatility and satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta Shells:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the 12 large pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside to cool.
- Prepare the Cheese Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Add 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs.
- Mix until the ingredients are well combined and smooth.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture. Use a spoon to fill each shell generously.
- Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
- Add the Marinara Sauce:
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring each shell is well-covered with sauce.
- Bake the Stuffed Shells:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Serving
This Easy Stuffed Shells recipe yields four generous servings. Serve the stuffed shells hot, straight from the oven, for the best taste and texture. Pair with a fresh green salad and some crusty garlic bread to make a complete meal.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Pairing Suggestions:
- Salads: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the stuffed shells. Consider a classic Caesar salad or a mixed greens salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Bread: Serve with garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette to soak up the delicious marinara sauce.
- Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans make a nutritious side dish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Family Dinner: Serve the stuffed shells family-style, straight from the baking dish, allowing everyone to help themselves.
- Potluck: This dish is a great option for potlucks and gatherings. Prepare the dish in advance and bake it at the host’s house for a fresh, hot meal.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Variations of the Recipe
- Meaty Stuffed Shells: Add cooked, crumbled ground beef or chicken to the cheese mixture for a heartier dish.
- Vegetarian Stuffed Shells: Incorporate sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini into the cheese filling for a nutritious vegetarian option.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as fontina, provolone, or asiago for a unique flavor profile.
- Spicy Stuffed Shells: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
Health Benefits
Nutritional Highlights:
- Protein: This dish is rich in protein from the cheese and egg, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Calcium: The cheese provides a good source of calcium, important for strong bones and teeth.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Depending on the added ingredients (like spinach or other vegetables), you can boost the dish’s content of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and magnesium.
Health Notes:
- Moderation: While delicious, this dish is rich and should be enjoyed in moderation, especially for those watching their calorie or fat intake.
- Customizable: By adjusting the ingredients (such as using part-skim ricotta or reducing the amount of cheese), you can make this dish lighter and healthier without sacrificing flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells and assemble the dish a day ahead. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Increase the baking time by about 10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
Q: Can I freeze stuffed shells? A: Absolutely. Assemble the stuffed shells in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Q: What can I use instead of ricotta cheese? A: Cottage cheese is a good substitute for ricotta. Blend it until smooth for a similar texture. You can also use a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream.
Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free? A: Use gluten-free pasta shells available at most grocery stores. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the marinara sauce, are gluten-free.
Q: Can I add meat to this recipe? A: Yes, you can add cooked ground beef, chicken, or turkey to the cheese mixture for a meatier version of stuffed shells.
Conclusion
Easy Stuffed Shells is a versatile, flavorful dish that brings the taste of Italy to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. With its rich, cheesy filling and savory marinara sauce, it’s a meal that everyone will love. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic Italian dish.