Baked Stuffed Shells Recipe

Baked stuffed shells are the ultimate comfort food — cheesy, saucy, and absolutely satisfying! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a family meal, this dish will impress everyone at the table. In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about preparing baked stuffed shells, from the essential ingredients to expert tips that will elevate your recipe. So, let’s dive into this delicious journey and make sure you read till the end for tips on perfecting this hearty Italian classic!

What are Baked Stuffed Shells?

Baked stuffed shells are an Italian-American dish that features large pasta shells (called "conchiglioni") filled with a delightful mixture of ricotta cheese, herbs, and sometimes meat. These stuffed pasta shells are then topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, baked until bubbly, and served hot. The combination of creamy cheese filling, savory sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta is nothing short of perfection. This recipe is versatile, and you can easily customize the filling based on your preferences.

Ingredients List for Baked Stuffed Shells

The beauty of baked stuffed shells lies in the simplicity of the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare a classic version of this dish:

For the shells and filling:

• 1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
  (These are large pasta shells that can be easily stuffed.)
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
  (The creamy base for the filling.)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  (Adds a melty, gooey texture to the dish.)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  (For added flavor and sharpness.)
• 1 large egg
  (Helps bind the filling together.)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  (For a hint of garlic flavor in the filling.)
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
  (Brings a fresh, aromatic note to the filling.)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  (Adds a touch of color and freshness.)
• 1 teaspoon salt
  (To season the filling.)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
  (For a slight kick of spice.)

For the sauce and topping:

• 4 cups marinara sauce
  (You can use homemade or store-bought marinara sauce.)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
  (To create a golden, bubbly cheese layer on top.)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
  (To add a crispy, flavorful finish.)

Substitutions and Variations

While the classic version of baked stuffed shells is delightful, there are plenty of ways to modify the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some popular substitutions and variations:

• Meat Lovers’ Option: Add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or ground turkey to the ricotta mixture. About 1 cup of cooked, seasoned meat will give the dish a heartier, meaty flavor.
• Vegetarian Twist: If you want to add more veggies to the dish, consider mixing finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms into the ricotta filling. Spinach-stuffed shells are a popular variation that adds color and nutrition.
• Cheese Substitutes: For a different flavor profile, try swapping out mozzarella for provolone or fontina cheese. You can also experiment with using goat cheese or feta mixed into the ricotta for a tangy twist.
• Gluten-Free: Simply use gluten-free pasta shells to make this dish gluten-friendly without compromising on flavor or texture.
• Dairy-Free: Replace the ricotta and mozzarella with dairy-free alternatives, such as cashew cheese or almond ricotta, to make the recipe vegan or dairy-free.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfectly baked stuffed shells:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with a bit of olive oil or non-stick spray.
2. Cook the pasta shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions, but slightly undercook them (about 1-2 minutes less than the recommended time) to avoid mushy pasta. Drain and rinse the shells with cold water to stop the cooking process.
3. Prepare the ricotta filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 2 cups of shredded mozzarella, 1 cup of grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped basil, chopped parsley, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4. Stuff the shells: Use a spoon or piping bag to fill each pasta shell with the ricotta mixture. Be generous with the filling, but don’t overstuff to the point where the shell breaks.
5. Assemble the dish: Spread 2 cups of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining 2 cups of marinara sauce over the shells, making sure they’re evenly coated.
6. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the ½ cup of shredded mozzarella and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan over the marinara sauce.
7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
8. Let it rest: Once baked, let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the shells to set and make it easier to plate.

How to Cook Baked Stuffed Shells: A Step-by-Step Guide

The process of making baked stuffed shells is simple and straightforward, but here’s a quick recap to ensure you’ve got everything in order:

1. Boil and drain the shells.
2. Prepare the ricotta cheese filling.
3. Stuff the shells with the cheese mixture.
4. Layer the shells in marinara sauce.
5. Top with cheese and bake until golden.

By following these steps, you'll achieve perfectly cooked pasta shells with a creamy, flavorful filling and a rich, cheesy topping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the pasta: One of the most common mistakes is overcooking the pasta shells. Always slightly undercook them to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
• Not enough sauce: The shells need to be well-covered with sauce to avoid drying out in the oven. Ensure there’s enough marinara to coat both the bottom of the dish and the tops of the shells.
• Overstuffing the shells: While it’s tempting to pack as much filling as possible into the shells, overstuffing can cause the shells to tear. A generous but reasonable amount is best.
• Skipping the resting period: Allowing the dish to rest after baking helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to serve. Don’t skip this crucial step!

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can make all the difference when it comes to serving baked stuffed shells. Here are a few ideas to impress your guests:

• Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve with garlic bread: Pair the dish with warm, crispy garlic bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce.
• Add a side salad: A light, fresh green salad balances the richness of the dish.

How to Serve Baked Stuffed Shells

Baked stuffed shells are best served hot, straight from the oven. Scoop out several shells onto a plate, ensuring there’s plenty of sauce and cheese with each serving. Offer extra grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who like an extra sprinkle of cheese on top.

Presentation Ideas for Baked Stuffed Shells

To make your baked stuffed shells visually appealing:

• Serve in individual ramekins for a more personalized presentation.
• Drizzle with olive oil just before serving to give the dish a glossy finish.
• Top with extra cheese right before baking and broil the last few minutes to get a bubbly, crispy cheese layer.

Baked Stuffed Shells Recipe Tips

• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the shells in advance, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, and bake them when ready to serve. Just add 5-10 extra minutes of baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
• Freeze for later: Baked stuffed shells freeze beautifully. Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes! Cottage cheese can be used as a substitute for ricotta, although it has a slightly different texture. Blend the cottage cheese to make it smoother before using.

Can I make baked stuffed shells without eggs?
Yes, you can omit the egg in the filling, though it may not be as firm. You can also use a flaxseed or chia egg substitute.

How long can leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Baked stuffed shells are a timeless, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you're making them for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to deliver flavor and comfort. Follow the tips and instructions in this article for perfectly cooked, cheesy, and delicious stuffed shells that everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking, and happy eating!

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