A Delicious Delight: Stuffed Shells Recipe

Introduction

Stuffed shells are a classic Italian-American dish that combines the rich flavors of pasta, cheese, and a savory tomato sauce. These delectable morsels are not only satisfying but also surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving some comfort food, stuffed shells are sure to please your taste buds. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create this delightful dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Shells:

• 1 box of jumbo pasta shells (approximately 12 ounces)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon olive oil (for boiling water)

For the Filling:

• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pasta Shells:

   • Bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding a teaspoon of olive oil and a teaspoon of salt.
   • Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente.
   • Drain the cooked shells and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
   • Drizzle the cooked shells with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking and set them aside.

2. Make the Filling:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
   • Mix everything together until well combined. Your cheese filling is ready.

3. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:

   • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add minced garlic and chopped onions to the skillet, sautéing until they become translucent.
   • Pour in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
   • Allow the sauce to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

4. Assemble the Stuffed Shells:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Take each cooked pasta shell and fill it with a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture.
   • Arrange the filled shells in a baking dish.
   • Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, covering them completely.

5. Bake and Serve:

   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 30 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
   • Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Allow the stuffed shells to cool for a few minutes before serving.
   • Serve them hot with some extra grated Parmesan cheese on top and a side of garlic bread or a green salad.

Conclusion

Stuffed shells are a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish that can turn any meal into a special occasion. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can recreate the magic of this classic Italian-American favorite in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, stuffed shells are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you with a satisfied smile. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and indulge in the deliciousness of homemade stuffed shells. Buon appetito!