Introduction
Stuffed Shells are a comforting and hearty Italian dish that’s perfect for family dinners and special occasions. These pasta shells are filled with a rich ricotta and spinach mixture, then topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. This dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 1 box jumbo pasta shells (about 20-24 shells)
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Preparation Steps
- Cook the Pasta Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, chopped spinach, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Stuff the Shells: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture and place them in the baking dish.
- Add the Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving. Enjoy!
Historical Context
Stuffed shells, or “conchiglioni ripieni,” are a classic Italian-American dish that showcases the Italian love for pasta and cheese. While traditional Italian cuisine often features stuffed pastas like ravioli and tortellini, the use of large pasta shells filled with cheese and baked in sauce is a delightful adaptation that has become a favorite in many households.
Nutritional Information
Stuffed Shells are a rich and satisfying dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats:
- Ricotta Cheese: High in protein and calcium.
- Spinach: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Pasta: Provides carbohydrates for energy.
- Tomato Sauce: Rich in vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
Conclusion and Serving Suggestions
Stuffed Shells are a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Serve them with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish is also great for making ahead and reheating, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
