Stuffed Shells Recipe: A Culinary Delight

Stuffed Shells Recipe – the very words conjure up images of warm, comforting pasta brimming with flavorful cheese and savory sauce. I’ve always loved this dish, and I’m thrilled to share my family’s treasured recipe with you today. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a journey through culinary history and a celebration of simple, satisfying flavors.

While the exact origins of stuffed shells are difficult to pinpoint, the concept of filling pasta shells with various ingredients dates back centuries. Many cultures have their own versions, showcasing the versatility of this humble dish. Think of it as a delicious evolution of simple pasta, elevated to a hearty and satisfying main course. The beauty of this Stuffed Shells Recipe lies in its adaptability; you can easily customize the filling and sauce to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

What makes stuffed shells so universally loved? It’s the perfect blend of textures and tastes, of course! The tender pasta shells provide a delightful contrast to the creamy, cheesy filling, all enveloped in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce. It’s a dish that satisfies both the heart and the stomach, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or even a special occasion. The convenience is another major plus; you can prepare the filling and assemble the shells ahead of time, making it a relatively stress-free meal to create, even on a busy weeknight.

So, are you ready to embark on this culinary adventure with me? Let’s dive into this delicious Stuffed Shells Recipe and create a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound jumbo pasta shells
• 1 pound ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for topping
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Preparing the Filling:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. I like to mix this really well, making sure everything is thoroughly incorporated. This ensures a smooth and flavorful filling.
2. Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings as needed. Sometimes I add a pinch more salt or pepper depending on my preference. You can also add a little more parsley if you love that fresh herb flavor.
3. Set the filling aside while you prepare the pasta and sauce.

Cooking the Pasta Shells:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt per gallon of water – it really helps season the pasta from the inside out.
2. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Don’t overcook them, or they’ll fall apart when you stuff them.
3. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps prevent the shells from sticking together.
4. Set the cooked shells aside to cool slightly.

Making the Sauce:

1. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. I prefer using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. I like to stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). I usually give it a good stir to combine everything evenly.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
6. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. I usually taste it a couple of times during the simmering process to make sure the seasoning is perfect.

Stuffing and Baking the Shells:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I usually use a non-stick cooking spray for easy cleanup.
3. Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta filling. I find it easiest to use a spoon or a piping bag for this step.
4. Arrange the stuffed shells in the prepared baking dish. I like to arrange them in a single layer if possible, but sometimes I have to do two layers.
5. Pour the simmered tomato sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure they are mostly covered. I usually try to get the sauce in between the shells as well.
6. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and remaining Parmesan cheese over the top. A generous amount of cheese adds a nice cheesy topping.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
8. Let the stuffed shells rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and makes it easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions:

1. Serve the stuffed shells hot, as a main course. They are delicious on their own.
2. A side salad with a light vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the stuffed shells perfectly.
3. Garlic bread is a classic accompaniment to this dish. The flavors pair beautifully.
4. For a heartier meal, serve with a side of roasted vegetables.

Conclusion:

So there you have it – my ultimate Stuffed Shells recipe! I truly believe this is a dish that deserves a place in everyone’s recipe repertoire. Why? Because it’s a beautiful blend of comforting Italian flavors, impressive presentation, and surprisingly manageable preparation. It’s the kind of dish that feels both special enough for a dinner party and easy enough for a weeknight meal. The rich, creamy ricotta filling, bursting with herbs and cheese, perfectly complements the tender pasta shells, all bathed in a vibrant, flavorful marinara sauce. This Stuffed Shells recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, promising a delicious experience for everyone involved.

I’ve always found that the best recipes are the ones that allow for a little personal touch, a bit of culinary improvisation. And this Stuffed Shells recipe is no exception. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in the filling – a sprinkle of Parmesan or even some crumbled goat cheese would add delightful complexity. You could also add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the ricotta mixture for an extra layer of flavor and texture. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try using different types of pasta shells – jumbo shells or even manicotti would work beautifully.

For serving suggestions, I love to garnish my Stuffed Shells with a generous sprinkling of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. A side of crusty Italian bread is a must, perfect for soaking up the delicious marinara sauce. A simple green salad, perhaps with a light vinaigrette, provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the dish. And for a truly decadent experience, consider serving it with a glass of your favorite Chianti.

Beyond the variations, the beauty of this Stuffed Shells recipe lies in its versatility. It’s a fantastic make-ahead dish; you can assemble the shells a day in advance and bake them just before serving, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining. It also reheats beautifully, meaning you can enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day without sacrificing any of the deliciousness.

I genuinely hope you’ll give this Stuffed Shells recipe a try. It’s a dish I’m incredibly proud of, and I can’t wait to hear what you think. Share your photos and experiences with me on social media – I’d love to see your culinary creations! Tag me and use the hashtag #StuffedShellsPerfection so I can see your amazing results. Remember to adjust the recipe to your own taste preferences and enjoy the process of creating this wonderful, comforting meal. This Stuffed Shells recipe is more than just a dish; it’s an experience, a journey into the heart of Italian cuisine, and I’m excited for you to embark on it.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. The possibilities are endless! From adding different vegetables to using a different type of cheese, the variations are truly limitless. And most importantly, have fun with it! Cooking should be enjoyable, and this Stuffed Shells recipe is designed to bring joy to both the cook and the eater. So, gather your ingredients, put on some Italian music, and get ready to create a truly memorable meal. I promise you won’t regret it. This Stuffed Shells recipe is waiting to be discovered by you!

Happy cooking!