Baked Stuffed Shells Recipe

If you're looking for the perfect comfort food to satisfy your cravings, look no further than Baked Stuffed Shells! This dish is a delicious blend of creamy cheese, rich marinara sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta shells that are sure to delight your taste buds. With layers of flavor and a gooey, cheesy center, baked stuffed shells are perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even as leftovers. Read through the entire article to discover the secrets to making the best baked stuffed shells, with tips and tricks to ensure that each bite is nothing short of amazing.

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What are Baked Stuffed Shells?

Baked Stuffed Shells are large pasta shells (often called "conchiglioni") that are cooked al dente and then filled with a savory mixture of cheeses, herbs, and sometimes meat or vegetables. The filled shells are then covered in marinara or another preferred sauce and baked to perfection. The result is a hearty, comforting dish that is both satisfying and flavorful. This Italian-American classic is easy to make and can be customized in various ways to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients List for Baked Stuffed Shells

To create this delectable dish, you'll need the following ingredients:

For the Shells and Filling:

• Jumbo pasta shells: 12-16 ounces
• Ricotta cheese: 2 cups
• Mozzarella cheese: 2 cups, shredded (divided)
• Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated
• Egg: 1 large
• Fresh spinach: 1 cup, chopped (optional)
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Italian seasoning: 1 tablespoon
• Salt and pepper: to taste
• Fresh basil: ¼ cup, chopped (for garnish)

For the Sauce:

• Marinara sauce: 3 cups (store-bought or homemade)
• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
• Crushed red pepper flakes: ½ teaspoon (optional for a bit of heat)

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of baked stuffed shells is their versatility. Here are some variations and substitutions to tailor the dish to your preferences or dietary needs:

• Cheese Variations: Swap out ricotta for cottage cheese if you want a lighter filling. You can also add cream cheese for extra creaminess.
• Protein Options: Add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken to the filling for a meaty twist.
• Vegetarian Twist: Use finely chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers in the filling for a veggie-packed version.
• Sauce Alternatives: Replace marinara with Alfredo sauce or a pesto cream sauce for a unique flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta shells to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s walk through each step to ensure your baked stuffed shells turn out absolutely perfect.

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

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the jumbo pasta shells until they're al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped spinach (if using), garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well-blended and creamy.
4. Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon or your hands, carefully stuff each shell with the cheese mixture. Aim for about 1-2 tablespoons of filling per shell, depending on its size.
5. Assemble the Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top of the sauce in a single layer.
6. Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top for that irresistible cheesy crust.
7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Garnish and Serve: Once the shells are done baking, let them cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped basil before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta shells just until al dente, as overcooked shells will become mushy and fall apart during stuffing and baking.
• Not Draining the Spinach: If you add spinach, make sure it is well-drained to avoid a watery filling that can dilute the flavors.
• Skipping the Egg: The egg in the filling helps bind the cheese mixture together, so don’t leave it out unless you're making a vegan version.
• Underseasoning: Proper seasoning is key. Don't forget to taste your cheese mixture before stuffing to ensure it’s well-seasoned.

Serving and Presentation Tips

The way you serve and present your baked stuffed shells can elevate the dining experience.

How to Serve Baked Stuffed Shells

• Family-Style: Serve the dish straight from the baking dish at the table. This creates a cozy, shared dining experience.
• Individual Portions: Plate each serving with a garnish of basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Pair with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Baked Stuffed Shells

• Layered Plating: Arrange the shells in a circular pattern on each plate, with a drizzle of marinara sauce over the top.
• Cheese Pull Shot: Capture that delicious cheese pull when you serve—this can be a great photo opportunity for social media.
• Herb Garnish: Sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Baked Stuffed Shells Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them fresh when you're ready to serve.
• Freezing Instructions: Baked stuffed shells freeze well. Assemble the dish and cover it tightly with foil. Freeze for up to 3 months and bake from frozen, adding 15-20 extra minutes to the baking time.
• Extra Creamy Filling: Add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the filling mixture for an extra creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I make baked stuffed shells ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake it when you're ready to serve.

Q2: What can I use instead of ricotta cheese? Cottage cheese, mascarpone, or even a mix of cream cheese can be great alternatives to ricotta in the filling.

Q3: How do I store leftovers? Store leftover baked stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Q4: Can I freeze baked stuffed shells? Absolutely! You can freeze the shells before or after baking. If freezing after baking, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Baked stuffed shells are a true crowd-pleaser, offering a rich, satisfying taste that everyone will love. With a perfect blend of cheeses, a flavorful marinara sauce, and the flexibility to adapt to various ingredients, this dish is a must-try for pasta lovers. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is bound to become a household favorite. Try it today, and don't forget to experiment with your favorite variations to make this recipe your own!

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