Creamy Stuffed Shells

When it comes to comfort food, Creamy Stuffed Shells hit all the right notes. Imagine large pasta shells brimming with a rich, creamy cheese filling, then blanketed with a luscious marinara sauce that sings of Italian heritage. It’s a dish that not only warms your belly but also nourishes your soul. Picture this: you’re gathered around the dinner table with family, delightful aromas wafting from the oven, and laughter bouncing off the walls. This dish is not just food; it’s a culinary hug!

What makes it even more special is its simplicity—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings alike. If you’re a fan of cheesy, comforting classics like lasagna, this recipe is a must-try, combining the same delightful flavors without the fuss. So grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into making some delicious Creamy Stuffed Shells that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!

What is Creamy Stuffed Shells?

Have you ever wondered why they’re called “stuffed shells”? Is it because they remind us of tiny tortoises seeking refuge in their shells? Who knows! What matters is that these delightful pasta pockets are a crowd-pleaser. The way to a man’s heart is indeed through his stomach, and with creamy, cheesy goodness packed in every bite, these shells are sure to win over anyone at your dinner table. Ready to whip up this Italian-inspired dish? Trust us; your taste buds will be thanking you!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Stuffed Shells

First and foremost, Creamy Stuffed Shells are the star of the show! They can easily serve as a main dish that will impress even the pickiest eaters. And let’s not forget the cost-saving benefits of cooking from home; making your own dishes not only keeps your wallet happy but also allows you to control the ingredients. Plus, the flavor combinations are endless! Top these shells with anything from fresh herbs to a sprinkle of crunchy breadcrumbs for that extra bite. Compared to classic stuffed pasta like cannelloni, which often requires a bit more effort, Creamy Stuffed Shells are a breeze! So go ahead, gather your loved ones and dive into this comforting masterpiece.

How to Make Creamy Stuffed Shells

Creating Creamy Stuffed Shells is straightforward and satisfying! This dish features a delightful blend of creamy cheese filling swaddled in tender pasta. Preparation takes about 30 minutes, and baking takes an additional 25 minutes, so you can have your meal ready in under an hour—perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings!

Key Ingredients for Creamy Stuffed Shells

• 12 large pasta shells: Choose jumbo shells that can hold a generous amount of filling.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: This creamy cheese will be the base of your filling.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds melty goodness!
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that cheesy richness.
• 1 cup spinach (cooked and chopped): Adds nutrition and color.
• 2 cups marinara sauce: Make or buy your favorite version.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For added flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
• Fresh parsley (optional): For garnish and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to warm up while you prepare everything else.
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
4. Stuff the Shells: Take each cooked pasta shell and fill it generously with the cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells seam-side up in a greased baking dish.
5. Top with Marinara: Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure every shell is covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
7. Garnish: Once out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. If desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Dish out the Creamy Stuffed Shells onto plates or in bowls. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Top Tips for Perfecting Creamy Stuffed Shells

1. Substitutions: If you prefer a plant-based filling, swap the cheese for a vegan ricotta or even mashed tofu mixed with nutritional yeast. You can also add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
2. Timing: Make sure not to overcook the pasta; you want them firm enough to hold the filling.
3. Common Mistakes to Avoid: Ensure that the shells are fully stuffed to avoid dryness. If the filling seems too thick, you can add a splash of cream or milk to loosen it up.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Storage: Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to store it longer, freezing works too! Make sure the dish is completely cooled before covering and wrapping it tightly for up to 2 months.

Reheating: For best results, microwave individual portions or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If baked directly from frozen, cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture and heat for 30-40 minutes or until bubbly.

Now that you’re equipped with everything you need to make Creamy Stuffed Shells, it’s time to gather those loved ones around the table. This dish is sure to bring warmth, joy, and lots of smiles. Enjoy!

Creamy Stuffed Shells

Creamy Stuffed Shells are large pasta shells filled with a rich, creamy cheese filling and topped with marinara sauce. A perfect comfort food for any gathering.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 480

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the filling

• 1 cup ricotta cheese This creamy cheese will be the base of your filling.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Adds melty goodness!
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese For that cheesy richness.
• 1 cup spinach (cooked and chopped) Adds nutrition and color.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder For added flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste Essential for seasoning.

For the pasta and sauce

• 12 large pasta shells Choose jumbo shells that can hold a generous amount of filling.
• 2 cups marinara sauce Make or buy your favorite version.
• Fresh parsley to taste garnish Optional for garnish and freshness.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Take each cooked pasta shell and fill it generously with the cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells seam-side up in a greased baking dish.

Baking

1. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure every shell is covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top.
2. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

Finishing touches

1. Let the dish rest for a few minutes, then sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
2. Serve the Creamy Stuffed Shells onto plates or in bowls, and enjoy with a side salad or garlic bread.

Notes

Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze after cooling for up to 2 months. Reheat in microwave or oven.