When it comes to comfort food, few dishes match the succulent, cheesy layers of creamy stuffed shells. Imagine al dente pasta stuffed to the brim with a rich, velvety filling, all wrapped in a luscious marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s sheer indulgence that warms the soul! Growing up, family gatherings always meant a signature dish from Mom’s kitchen—a time-honored tradition that left everyone with full bellies and happy hearts. Is there anything better than gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing stories over this delightful meal?
If you’re a fan of my Italian-inspired recipes, you might recognize a similar charm in my classic lasagna post. Both dishes highlight the beauty of home-cooked meals while being remarkably easy to prepare.
Let’s dive into this Creamy Stuffed Shells Recipe that is an absolute crowd-pleaser!
What is Creamy Stuffed Shells Recipe?
Ah, creamy stuffed shells—a name that brings a delightful smile to anyone’s face. Have you ever wondered why they’re called “stuffed shells” in the first place? It’s not like they were made by actual shellfish! These pasta beauties are like little pillows of joy filled with a cheesy mixture that may just make you weak in the knees. They embody the classic saying, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Who needs fancy restaurants when you can whip up this dish at home? So gather your loved ones and prepare to impress them with your culinary skills!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Stuffed Shells Recipe
This Creamy Stuffed Shells Recipe represents the ultimate main dish for all your family gatherings. The combination of creamy ricotta, savory herbs, and delicious marinara sauce creates a symphony of flavor that can’t be beaten. Plus, cooking at home not only saves you money but also ensures you’re using fresh and wholesome ingredients! You’ll find yourself amused at how easily you can crank this meal out for a fraction of the cost of dining out.
Want a little crunch on top? Consider adding breadcrumbs or toasted cheese—much like a traditional baked ziti but with more pizzazz! If you’re ready to surprise your taste buds and your wallet, roll up your sleeves and let’s make some magic in the kitchen!
How to Make Creamy Stuffed Shells Recipe
Quick Overview
Preparing Creamy Stuffed Shells is as easy as it is satisfying. With a delightful filling and melty cheese, this dish promises a comforting experience with every bite. The best part? You can have it on your table within just 30 minutes of prep time! Believe me; your family will be begging for second helpings!
Key Ingredients for Creamy Stuffed Shells Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to create this scrumptious dish:
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Make sure all your ingredients are halal-compliant for a worry-free cooking experience!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your dish is perfectly baked by the time you finish preparing it!
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until slightly al dente. Drain and set aside to cool so you can handle them later.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Add egg, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined. This creamy filling is the heart of your stuffed shells.
- Stuff each shell generously with the cheese mixture. Don’t be shy here—pack it in!
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce evenly in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place the stuffed shells on top, then cover with the remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese on top for a cheesy finish. You can also add breadcrumbs if you desire some extra crunch.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if you like a pop of color. Your family will be delighted!
Top Tips for Perfecting Creamy Stuffed Shells Recipe
- Substitutions: Feel free to use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a lighter option. If you want a veggie twist, add finely chopped spinach or mushrooms to the filling.
- Timing: Take care not to overcook the shells; they should be firm enough to withstand the filling and baking.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid packing too tightly; otherwise, they might split during baking. Also, don’t skip the resting time after baking, as the flavors settle beautifully!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the dish moist when reheating, add a splash of water or additional sauce to the dish before covering it. For freezing, wrap the entire dish tightly and enjoy it within 2-3 months for the best flavor. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
With this Creamy Stuffed Shells Recipe, you’re all set for an unforgettable meal that’s easy, satisfying, and sure to bring smiles. So why wait? Let’s get cooking!
Creamy Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until slightly al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan cheeses, egg, dried herbs, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Generously stuff each shell with the cheese mixture.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce evenly in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Place the stuffed shells on top and cover with the remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese on top. Optionally add breadcrumbs.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
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