Ultimate Stuffed Shells Recipe

Welcome to my West Virginia kitchen!  Are you craving a comforting Italian dish that's both satisfying and easy to prepare?  I mean, honestly, who isn't?  If that's you though, look no further than this stuffed shells recipe.  

Jumbo pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta cheese mixture, topped with savory marinara sauce, and smothered in melty mozzarella cheese make this dish a family favorite.  Perfect for weeknight dinner or special occasions, these stuffed shells are sure to impress you loved ones.  I can't wait to share it with you so...

Let's Get Started!








WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE:

• Rich and Creamy:  The ricotta filling is creamy and rich, providing a luxurious texture that pairs perfectly with the tangy marinara sauce.  
• Easy to make:  With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Family-Friendly:  Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy goodness and comforting flavors of this dish.  
• Make-Ahead Option:  You can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and bake them when you're ready to eat, making dinner preparation a breeze.  
• Versatile:  Customize the filling by adding spinach, mushrooms, or cooked ground meat for added flavor and nutrition.

INGREDEINTS:

For this Ultimate stuffed shells recipe you will need to gather a few simple ingredients:

• 20 Jumbo Pasta Shells
• 2 cups Ricotta Cheese
• 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese
• 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
• 1 lb. of Italian Sausage
• 1 cup Frozen Chopped Spinach, thawed
• 1 Egg, lightly beaten
• 1 jar of Marinara Sauce
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning 
• Salt and Pepper, to taste
• Fresh Parsley or Basil Leaves for garnish (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cook the Pasta:  Preheat your oven to 375°F/190°C.  Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente.  Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Filling:  Place a skillet over medium-high heat.  Add a little oil.  When the pan is hot cook the Italian sausage until brown and no longer pink.  Place the sausage into a mixing bowl.  Add the frozen spinach (make sure you squeeze out all the excess water first), ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.  Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combine.  
3. Stuff the Shells: Spoon the ricotta mixture into each cooked shell, filling them generously.  
4. Assemble the Dish:  Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.  Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of the sauce.  Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, ensuring they are evenly covered.  
5. Bake:  Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the shells.  Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.  Remove the foil and bake the preheated oven for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.  
6. Serve:  Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve hot.  

STEP-BY-STEP PHOTOGRAPHS:

TIPS AND TRICKS:

• Don't Overcook the Pasta:  Cook the shells just just until al dente, as the will continue to cook the oven.  
• Use Fresh Ingredients:  Fresh ricotta and high-quality marinara sauce will enhance the flavor of this dish.
• Experiment with Fillings:  Add cooked spinach, mushrooms, or browned ground meat to the ricotta mixture for a unique twist.  
• Make Ahead:  Assemble the stuffed shells and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.  

FAQs:

Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Yes, you can freeze stuffed shells before baking.  Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.  Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.  

What can I serve with stuffed shells?  

Stuffed shells pair well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.  

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, cottage cheese can be used as a substitute for ricotta.  However the texture and flavor will be slightly different.

These stuffed shells are a delicious and comforting dish that's sure to please everyone at the table.  Whether you're making dinner for your family or hosting a special occasion, this recipe is a surefire hit.  With its creamy filling, savory sauce, and melty cheese, every bite is a taste of Italian goodness.  Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful meal that's as easy to make as it is to devour!

And as always...

Happy Eatin' Y'all!
~The Kitchen Wife~