Stuffed Shells are a delightful and satisfying dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. They’re a fantastic choice for busy evenings since they can be prepared ahead of time, and you can customize them to suit your family’s taste. Whether you prefer the creamy Alfredo Chicken, zesty Mexican-Style, or the classic marinara, Stuffed Shells are sure to please!
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 500
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 800mg
Why Make Stuffed Shells
Stuffed Shells are not only delicious, but they’re also a nutritious option that can be tailored to fit various dietary needs. They’re packed with protein, especially when using chicken, beef, or cheese, which makes them a filling meal choice. Plus, the dish can easily be adapted for vegetarians or those seeking lighter options, making it a versatile recipe that fits countless occasions.
How to Make Stuffed Shells Step by Step
Ingredients
For Alfredo Chicken: 15 ounces Alfredo sauce, 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley, 1 tablespoon ranch dressing mix, 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper, 3 cups cooked shredded chicken breast, 12 ounces bacon cooked and crumbled, 3 cups mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup grated parmesan, 8 ounces jumbo pasta shells, 22 ounces additional Alfredo sauce.
For Mexican-Style: 24 jumbo shells, 2 pounds lean ground beef, 1 cup finely diced sweet yellow onion, 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic, 2 ounces mild taco seasoning, 3/4 cup water, 16 ounces mild salsa, 2 1/2 cups shredded Colby jack cheese, taco sauce (optional).
For Classic: 25 jumbo shells, 23 ounces Prego marinara sauce, 2 cups ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, 1 egg, 3 teaspoons minced garlic, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, chopped parsley or basil for garnish.
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the filling for your chosen style (Alfredo Chicken, Mexican-Style, or Classic).
- Stuff each jumbo shell with the filling.
- Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish.
- Pour the corresponding sauce over the shells.
- Top with shredded cheese and any additional garnishes as desired.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Stuffed Shells
For a complete meal, consider serving your Stuffed Shells with a crisp garden salad and some garlic bread. A side of roasted vegetables also complements the dish beautifully. Drizzle with extra sauce or sprinkle some fresh herbs on top to enhance the presentation.
How to Store Stuffed Shells
Stuffed Shells can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option. You can also freeze the unbaked stuffed shells; just ensure they are tightly wrapped. To bake from frozen, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Expert Tips for Cooking Stuffed Shells
- Use a variety of cheeses for a richer flavor. Mixing mozzarella with provolone or fontina can elevate the experience.
- Make sure to cook the pasta shells al dente since they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Prepare your sauce from scratch for a fresh taste, or use jarred sauce for convenience.
- Don’t skip the garnishes! Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a lovely touch both in flavor and presentation.
Delicious Variations of Stuffed Shells
- For a spicy twist, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the Mexican-Style filling.
- Incorporate spinach and mushrooms into the ricotta mix for a fantastic vegetarian option.
- Top with a light citrus dressing for a refreshing take during summer months.
Conclusion
Stuffed Shells are a delightful dish that promise a burst of flavors in every bite. Whether you opt for Alfredo, Mexican, or classic marinara, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the warm, comforting goodness!
Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
For Alfredo Chicken
- 15 ounces Alfredo sauce
- 1.5 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
- 1 tablespoon ranch dressing mix
- 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 12 ounces bacon cooked and crumbled
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup grated parmesan
- 8 ounces jumbo pasta shells
- 22 ounces additional Alfredo sauce
For Mexican-Style
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 cup finely diced sweet yellow onion
- 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic
- 2 ounces mild taco seasoning
- 0.75 cup water
- 16 ounces mild salsa
- 2.5 cups shredded Colby jack cheese
- taco sauce (optional)
For Classic
- 23 ounces Prego marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 0.5 cup parmesan cheese
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1.5 cups mozzarella cheese
- chopped parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the filling for your chosen style (Alfredo Chicken, Mexican-Style, or Classic).
- Stuff each jumbo shell with the filling.
- Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish.
- Pour the corresponding sauce over the shells.
- Top with shredded cheese and any additional garnishes as desired.
Baking
- Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
