Stuffed shells are a classic comfort food, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This dish offers a delightful combination of tender pasta, flavorful filling, and a rich, cheesy sauce. Learning how to make stuffed shells might seem daunting, but with this step-by-step guide, you'll be creating a masterpiece in no time!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe provides a flexible framework; feel free to adjust quantities based on your needs and preferences.
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness!)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other Ingredients:
- 1 package (15 ounces) jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pasta Shells:
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Don't overcook them, as they'll continue to cook in the sauce. Drain well and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is thoroughly incorporated. Stir in the mozzarella cheese (if using).
3. Stuff the Shells:
- Carefully fill each cooked shell with the ricotta mixture. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for a neater presentation.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be.
5. Assemble and Bake:
- Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of a large baking dish (approximately 9x13 inches).
- Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish, seam-side down. Pour the remaining sauce over the shells, ensuring they are mostly covered.
- Sprinkle generously with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake to Perfection:
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the sauce is bubbly.
7. Rest and Serve:
- Let the stuffed shells rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and prevents a messy serving experience. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Meat Lovers' Stuffed Shells: Add cooked sausage, ground beef, or meatballs to the ricotta filling for a heartier dish.
- Vegetable Medley: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini into the filling.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
- Make it Ahead: You can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and bake them just before serving. Store the assembled dish, uncovered, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Conclusion:
Making stuffed shells is a rewarding culinary experience. With a little time and effort, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends. So grab your ingredients and get cooking! Enjoy!
