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Italian Stuffed shells – Don’t LOSE this Recipe

Italian Stuffed Shells – Don’t LOSE this Recipe

Introduction

Italian Stuffed Shells is a mouthwatering dish that combines the flavors of pasta, cheese, and a rich tomato sauce. This classic Italian recipe is loved by people of all ages and is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The dish features jumbo pasta shells that are stuffed with a delectable mixture of cheese, herbs, and sometimes meat. Baked to perfection with a generous amount of sauce and melted cheese, these stuffed shells are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. In this article, we will take you through the process of making Italian Stuffed Shells, step-by-step. So, let’s dive in and discover the secrets to creating this delicious Italian masterpiece.

Ingredients

To make Italian Stuffed Shells, you will need the following ingredients:

– 1 box of jumbo pasta shells

– 2 cups of ricotta cheese

– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 egg, beaten

– 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped

– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano

– 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder

– 1/2 teaspoon of salt

– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

– 2 cups of marinara sauce

Steps

1. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the instructions on the package. Make sure to cook them until they are al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven later. Once cooked, drain the shells and set them aside to cool.

2. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, chopped parsley, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

4. Take each cooked pasta shell and carefully stuff it with a generous amount of the cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shell in a baking dish and continue this process until all the shells are filled and arranged in the dish.

5. Pour the marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure to cover them completely. The sauce adds a burst of flavor and helps keep the shells moist during baking.

6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted and slightly golden on top.

7. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with some fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Variations

Italian Stuffed Shells offers endless possibilities for customization. Here are a few variations you can try:

– Meaty Stuffed Shells: Add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken to the cheese mixture for a heartier version of this dish.

– Vegetarian Stuffed Shells: Skip the meat and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the cheese mixture for a delicious vegetarian option.

– Seafood Stuffed Shells: Incorporate cooked shrimp or crab meat into the cheese mixture for a delightful seafood twist.

– Alfredo Stuffed Shells: Replace the marinara sauce with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a rich and indulgent variation.

– Spicy Stuffed Shells: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick.

Feel free to get creative and experiment with different fillings and sauces to suit your taste preferences.

Tips

– Make sure to cook the pasta shells al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooking them will result in mushy shells.

– To prevent the shells from sticking together, drizzle them with a little olive oil after draining and gently toss them.

– Use a piping bag or a spoon to fill the shells with the cheese mixture. This will make the process easier and more efficient.

– If you want a crispy top, remove the aluminum foil during the last few minutes of baking and broil the dish for a couple of minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Italian Stuffed Shells is a classic Italian dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table. The combination of the jumbo pasta shells, creamy cheese filling, and tangy marinara sauce creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or add your own twist, these stuffed shells are sure to impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on a culinary journey to create this Italian masterpiece. Once you taste the cheesy goodness, you won’t want to lose this recipe!

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

A: While jumbo pasta shells are the traditional choice for Italian Stuffed Shells, you can experiment with other types of pasta such as manicotti or cannelloni tubes.

Q: Can I freeze Italian Stuffed Shells?

A: Yes, you can freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Simply assemble them in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and follow the baking instructions as usual.

Q: Can I make the cheese filling in advance?

A: Absolutely! The cheese filling can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to give it a good stir before using.

Q: Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

A: Yes, you can use store-bought marinara sauce for convenience. However, making your own sauce from scratch allows you to customize the flavors to your liking.

Q: Can I add more cheese to the recipe?

A: Of course! If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add more shredded mozzarella or grated Parmesan cheese to the cheese mixture or sprinkle some extra cheese on top before baking.

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