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Stuffed cheese shells

Stuffed cheese shells

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add salt.
  2. Carefully add the jumbo pasta shells to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, usually around 9-11 minutes.
  3. Once cooked, drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly. It’s best to rinse them under cool water to stop the cooking process and make them easier to handle.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and egg.
  2. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped parsley (or dried parsley).
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined, ensuring the filling is smooth and evenly distributed.

Step 3: Stuff the Pasta Shells

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
  3. Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture, making sure not to overfill them. Place each stuffed shell in the prepared baking dish, seam side down.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

  1. Pour the marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, spreading it evenly to cover all the shells.
  2. Sprinkle the top with extra mozzarella cheese if desired for an extra cheesy, golden finish.
  3. Add a sprinkle of dried basil and oregano on top of the sauce for a burst of flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Stuffed Shells

  1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
  2. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and the sauce to bubble around the edges.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Once the stuffed cheese shells are golden and bubbly, remove them from the oven and let them sit for a few minutes to cool slightly.
  2. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
  3. Serve the stuffed shells with a side of garlic bread and a light green salad for the ultimate meal!

Why You’ll Love Stuffed Cheese Shells

1. Comfort Food at Its Best

There’s something so comforting about the combination of creamy cheese and pasta. Stuffed cheese shells offer a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

2. Versatile and Customizable

While the classic stuffed cheese filling is delicious on its own, you can easily make this dish your own by adding ingredients like spinach, ground meat, or sausage to the stuffing. You can also switch up the sauce, using a white sauce or pesto for a different flavor.

3. Easy to Prepare

Despite looking impressive, stuffed cheese shells are easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients. With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can create a beautiful, crowd-pleasing dish without a lot of effort.

4. Make-Ahead Option

Stuffed cheese shells can be made ahead of time, making them a great option for meal prep or dinner parties. You can prepare the dish in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Tips for the Best Stuffed Cheese Shells

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta

When cooking the jumbo shells, make sure to cook them just to al dente—about 9-11 minutes. If they’re overcooked, they may tear while you stuff them, making it difficult to handle.

2. Mix Up the Filling

Feel free to customize the cheese filling by adding extra herbs, spices, or even vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. You can also make the filling creamier by adding a bit of ricotta cheese or cream cheese.

3. Use Your Favorite Marinara Sauce

For the best flavor, use your favorite marinara sauce, whether homemade or store-bought. If you prefer a spicier dish, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an added kick.

4. Double It for Leftovers

This dish can easily be doubled, allowing you to feed a larger crowd or have leftovers for the next day. Stuffed shells are even better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld together.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed Cheese Shells are a classic comfort food that’s sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. Whether you’re enjoying it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a special occasion, this dish is full of rich, cheesy goodness that’s hard to resist. The combination of cheese, pasta, and marinara sauce makes it a hearty and satisfying meal, and with a few simple ingredients, you can create something truly amazing.

So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy a warm, cheesy plate of stuffed cheese shells—you won’t be disappointed! 🍝🧀

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