Baked Stuffed Shells Recipe
Imagine the satisfaction of creating a dish that effortlessly combines elegance and comfort—baked stuffed shells. You'll appreciate how the creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, balanced with fresh basil and garlic, transforms ordinary pasta into a culinary masterpiece. As you prepare, consider adding a personal twist with ingredients like spinach or ground meat to enhance the flavors. The key lies in perfecting each step, from cooking the shells to just the right texture to spreading the marinara sauce. What secrets might you discover as the aroma fills your kitchen? Let's explore further.
Recipe
Baked stuffed shells are a delightful Italian-inspired dish that combines the richness of cheese with the comforting texture of pasta. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, offering a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will love. The creamy ricotta filling, seasoned with fresh herbs and spices, is enveloped in tender pasta shells and baked to perfection in a savory marinara sauce. The result is a delicious blend of flavors and textures that will bring warmth and joy to your dining table.
To prepare baked stuffed shells, you begin by cooking jumbo pasta shells until they're al dente. The filling is a luscious mixture of ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, combined with an egg, fresh basil, and garlic for a flavorful punch. Once stuffed and arranged in a baking dish coated with marinara sauce, the shells are topped with more sauce and mozzarella cheese. Baking them until the cheese is bubbly and golden creates a mouthwatering dish that's as visually appealing as it's delicious.
Ingredients:
- Jumbo pasta shells
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Egg
- Fresh basil
- Garlic
- Marinara sauce
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
To cook the dish, begin by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil the jumbo pasta shells as per their package instructions until they're al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create the filling. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each shell with the ricotta mixture and arrange them in the dish. Cover with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with the leftover mozzarella cheese. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top, cover with foil, and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
For the best results, make sure that the pasta shells are cooked just to al dente, as they'll continue to soften while baking. If you desire a creamier filling, consider adding a splash of cream or milk to the ricotta mixture.
Feel free to customize the filling with additional ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or even ground meat for added flavor and nutrition. Preparing a larger batch and freezing some can provide a quick and convenient meal for busy days. Allow the baked stuffed shells to cool for a few minutes before serving, as this helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Cooking Steps
To kick off your baked stuffed shells adventure, start by preheating your oven to a toasty 375°F—because nobody wants a cold bath for their pasta.
While the oven's warming up, cook your jumbo shells until they're just al dente, giving them that perfect bite before their cheesy destiny.
In the meantime, channel your inner chef by mixing up a delightful concoction of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper, and get ready to spread some marinara love in your baking dish before stuffing those shells like a pro.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 375°F
Before you begin assembling the stuffed shells, make certain your oven is preheated to 375°F (190°C). Trust me, you don't want to be halfway through and realize the oven's still cold.
Preheating is essential because it guarantees even cooking and that delightful bubbling cheese effect. While the oven's warming up, you might even use the time to dance around the kitchen or sneak a taste of that ricotta filling—just don't eat it all!
A well-preheated oven is like a reliable friend: always there when you need it. It helps bake the shells to perfection, making sure everything is cooked evenly.
Step 2. Cook Shells Until Al Dente
With your oven preheating nicely, it's time to focus on the pasta shells.
Grab a large pot, fill it with water, and bring it to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt—it's like giving your pasta a little spa treatment! Toss the jumbo shells into the bubbling water and let them cook.
Keep an eye on them, though; you want them al dente, which means they should be firm but not crunchy—think of it as the perfect handshake, not too soft, not too hard. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once they've reached that ideal texture, drain them well and gently spread them on a baking sheet to cool.
Now, they're ready to hold that delicious cheese filling!
Step 3. Mix Cheese Filling Ingredients
Now that your pasta shells are prepped, it's time to plunge into mixing your cheese filling. Grab a mixing bowl, and let the fun begin!
Add ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan. Toss in one egg, freshly chopped basil, and a clove or two of minced garlic.
Don't forget a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper for that extra zing. Now, channel your inner chef and mix everything together until it's creamy and well-blended.
Be sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to get all those cheesy bits. Remember, you're aiming for a filling that's rich, flavorful, and ready to transform your shells into little pockets of Italian delight!
Step 4. Spread Marinara in Baking Dish
Once your cheese filling is ready, it's time to get your baking dish prepped.
Grab your favorite baking dish—one that's not too shallow, as these shells need room to shine.
Pour a generous layer of marinara sauce into the bottom. You want enough to create a cozy bed for the pasta, but not so much that it resembles a tomato soup.
Use a spoon to spread the sauce evenly, ensuring every nook and cranny is covered.
This step isn't just about the flavor; it's like giving your shells a soft place to land. Think of it as a tomato jacuzzi for pasta!
Plus, it prevents sticking and adds that magical saucy touch.
Now, get ready for stuffing those delightful shells!
Step 5. Stuff Shells With Cheese Mixture
As you prepare to stuff the shells, make certain each one is slightly cooled and ready to handle. Nobody wants a burnt hand while crafting culinary masterpieces!
Grab a spoon, scoop a generous amount of the ricotta cheese mixture, and gently fill each shell. It's like a cozy sleeping bag for cheese. Be careful not to overfill; you don't want any cheesy escapees during baking.
Place each stuffed shell snugly in the marinara-coated baking dish, letting them chat with their pasta neighbors. Continue the process until all shells are filled and arranged. If you've got extra filling, sneak a taste or two—chef's privilege!
Once all shells are in place, you're ready for the next delicious step.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, baked stuffed shells offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that can elevate any meal.
You've mastered a classic dish that's both versatile and satisfying. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just yourself, these shells are sure to impress.
Remember, they're perfect for experimenting, so don't be afraid to add your favorite ingredients. Maybe toss in some spinach or a sprinkle of nutmeg next time.
And hey, if you make a mess filling the shells, just call it "cooking with flair"!
Before you know it, you'll have a delicious meal that fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma.
So, go ahead and enjoy the fruits of your labor, knowing you've created something truly special.
Happy eating!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Ricotta Cheese With Cottage Cheese in Stuffed Shells?
You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese in stuffed shells. The texture might be slightly different, but it still works well. Drain cottage cheese to remove excess liquid for a creamier filling, enhancing your dish's flavor.
How Can I Make Stuffed Shells Gluten-Free?
To make stuffed shells gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta shells. Prepare the filling and sauce as usual. Confirm all other ingredients, like marinara and spices, are gluten-free. You'll enjoy a delicious, gluten-free version of this classic dish!
What Is the Best Way to Reheat Leftover Stuffed Shells?
To reheat leftover stuffed shells, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place shells in a baking dish with a splash of sauce, cover with foil, and bake for 20 minutes. Alternatively, use a microwave, covering shells to retain moisture.
Can Stuffed Shells Be Prepared Ahead of Time and Refrigerated?
You can absolutely prepare stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate them. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, bake it as directed, and enjoy a stress-free meal.
Is It Possible to Make a Vegan Version of Stuffed Shells?
You can definitely make a vegan version of stuffed shells. Swap ricotta with tofu or cashew cream, use plant-based cheeses, and choose a vegan-friendly marinara sauce. Experiment with your favorite veggies for added texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Now that you've mastered the art of baked stuffed shells, you're all set to impress at your next family gathering! Remember, the key is in the cheese mixture; don't skimp on the fresh basil and garlic—they make all the difference. Feel free to get creative by adding spinach or ground meat. As they bake, enjoy the mouth-watering aroma filling your kitchen. Serve them with a smile, and watch everyone dig in with delight. Happy cooking!
