Hi there, food lovers! This is Jacob Allen from Beyond the Bayou Blog, getting ready to spice up your mealtime with a treat. Get ready for a super easy and yummy recipe: Easy Cheesy Stuffed Shells.
These homemade treats are full of flavor and really easy to make. Whether you’re great at cooking or just starting out, you’ll love this recipe.
Picture soft pasta shells filled with yummy cheese, baked in tasty marinara sauce. With only a few ingredients and easy instructions, you’ll be enjoying these delicious shells in no time.
Ideal for relaxed family dinners or festive get-togethers, they’re sure to be a hit with your crew. Let’s dive into cooking and relish the deliciousness together!
Stuffed Shells Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing Bowls
- Baking Dish
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 Box 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells
- 1 Pound ricotta cheese
- 1 Cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 Cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 Egg lightly beaten
- 1 Tsp fresh parsley chopped
- 1 Tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 Cups marinara sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the cheese mixture.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish and cover with the remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the pasta shells as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Feel free to customize the filling with additional herbs, spices, or cooked vegetables for extra flavor.
Nutrition
Time For My Personal Tips!
Tip 1: Try using spinach or kale for a healthier twist on the filling.
Tip 2: Make sure to generously season the filling mixture with salt and pepper a well-balanced taste.
Tip 3: To prevent the shells from sticking together, drizzle a little olive oil over them after draining.
Tip 4: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Variations:
- Seafood Stuffed Shells: Incorporate cooked shrimp or crab meat into the cheese mixture for a decadent seafood twist.
- Vegan Stuffed Shells: Replace the ricotta cheese with mashed tofu and use dairy-free mozzarella and Parmesan alternatives for a plant-based version.
- Mexican Stuffed Shells: Substitute the marinara sauce with enchilada sauce and add taco seasoning to the cheese mixture. Top with salsa, avocado, and cilantro before serving.