Stuffed shells are a classic Italian-American comfort food that combines the savory richness of a creamy cheese filling with the tangy brightness of tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, offering a hearty and satisfying meal that’s both delicious and visually appealing. The oversized pasta shells are filled with a delectable mixture of cheeses, herbs, and spices, then baked in a flavorful tomato sauce until bubbly and golden. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through the steps to create a restaurant-quality dish right at home.
Ingredients for Stuffed Shells
For the Pasta Shells:
- 24 large pasta shells (jumbo shells)
- Salt, for boiling water
For the Cheese Filling:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried oregano)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
How to Make Stuffed Shells
- Prepare the Pasta Shells:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions, but be careful not to overcook them. They should be al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Drain the pasta shells and let them cool on a baking sheet or parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
- Prepare the Cheese Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and egg. Mix well until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped spinach, minced garlic, fresh basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, dried basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Assemble the Stuffed Shells:
- Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Using a spoon, carefully fill each pasta shell with the cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish, seam side up.
- Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake the Stuffed Shells:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Serve:
- Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil or parsley if desired.
About the Main Ingredients
Pasta Shells: Jumbo pasta shells are ideal for stuffing due to their large size, which holds a generous amount of filling. They are a staple in Italian-American cuisine and are versatile for various stuffing options.
Ricotta Cheese: This soft, creamy cheese adds a rich texture to the filling. It’s mild in flavor and pairs well with other cheeses and seasonings.
Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a gooey and satisfying texture. It adds both flavor and a pleasing stretchiness to the stuffed shells.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan provides a sharp, salty contrast to the other cheeses and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Spinach: Fresh or frozen spinach adds a nutritious element and a subtle earthiness to the cheese filling.
Tomato Sauce: The tomato sauce acts as a flavorful base, complementing the cheese filling and keeping the shells moist during baking.
With this detailed recipe, you’ll be able to create a batch of delicious stuffed shells that are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this comforting dish with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
