Stuffed Pasta Shells

Stuffed Pasta Shells: A Classic Comfort Food

Stuffed pasta shells are a timeless Italian-American dish that combines tender pasta filled with a rich, creamy ricotta mixture, all nestled in a flavorful marinara sauce and topped with gooey melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, celebrations, or when you crave a hearty, comforting meal. With endless filling variations, stuffed pasta shells cater to all tastes—whether you’re a meat lover, a vegetarian, or somewhere in between.

History of Stuffed Pasta Shells

Stuffed pasta dishes trace their origins to Italy, where filled pastas like ravioli, tortellini, and cannelloni have been part of culinary traditions for centuries. Pasta shells, known as conchiglioni, became popular in Italian-American cuisine in the mid-20th century as a way to simplify the process of creating stuffed pasta. The dish gained fame for its ability to combine simple ingredients into a luxurious, restaurant-worthy meal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Filling:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup cooked and crumbled Italian sausage (optional)
• 1 cup chopped spinach or kale (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta shells until slightly underdone (about 2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well. Add cooked Italian sausage or chopped spinach for extra flavor, if desired.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture into each pasta shell. Place the stuffed shells open-side up in the prepared dish.
4. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, ensuring each is covered.
5. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake the Shells

1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Methods and Formation

• Pasta Cooking Tip: Slightly undercooking the shells prevents them from becoming too soft during baking.
• Filling Technique: Use a piping bag or spoon for clean and easy filling.
• Layering: Ensure the marinara sauce coats the bottom of the baking dish to prevent sticking.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~340
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 620mg

Benefits

1. Customizable: The filling can be adapted for vegetarians, meat lovers, or those seeking a healthier option.
2. Nutritious: Provides a balance of carbs, protein, and fats, along with calcium from the cheese.
3. Family-Friendly: A fun dish to make and enjoy with loved ones.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble ahead of time and bake when ready for convenience.

Lovers of Stuffed Pasta Shells

Stuffed pasta shells are beloved by all ages, from kids who enjoy the cheesy filling to adults who appreciate the blend of flavors and textures. The dish is a hit at potlucks, holiday gatherings, and cozy family dinners, making it a staple in many households.

Conclusion

Stuffed pasta shells offer the perfect combination of simplicity and sophistication. Whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, these shells deliver rich, hearty flavors with minimal effort. Customize them to suit your preferences, and enjoy a dish that brings people together around the table. Serve with a fresh salad and garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired feast!