Stuffed Pasta Recipe

To make stuffed pasta, you’ll need jumbo pasta shells, cheese, and some simple ingredients. Start by boiling 12-20 shells for 1-2 minutes less than package instructions. In a bowl, mix 30 ounces of cottage or ricotta cheese, 8-12 ounces of mozzarella, 6 ounces of Parmesan, an egg, garlic, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Fill each shell with this mixture, using a cookie scoop for ease. Layer filled shells in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce and mozzarella, then bake until bubbly. Consider customizing the filling for variety, and learn how to optimize this dish for future meals.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

When you plunge into this stuffed pasta recipe, you’ll quickly discover why it’s a favorite among many home cooks.

Here are some reasons to love it:

Health Benefits: Stuffed shells are high in protein, especially with ingredients like cottage cheese or turkey. They’re nutrient-dense and rich in vitamins, including B6 and B12, plus zinc, which supports immune function.
Versatility: You can easily make them vegetarian or gluten-free. They cater to various dietary needs, making them a crowd-pleaser. Additionally, the recipe is adaptable for various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious meal.
Nutritional Value: A serving has about 141 calories, moderate fat, and offers potassium.
Ease of Preparation: With simple ingredients and quick prep time, stuffed shells are easy to make and serve, allowing for customization with different fillings.

Recipe

Stuffed Pasta Recipe

Indulge in the comforting flavors of stuffed pasta shells, a delightful dish that brings together creamy cheeses, rich marinara sauce, and tender pasta. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to prepare. With a blend of cheeses and fresh herbs, these stuffed shells are guaranteed to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; you can customize the filling to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Whether you choose to use ricotta, cottage cheese, or even add in some sautéed vegetables or cooked meats, the options are endless. Additionally, this recipe allows for endless adaptation possibilities, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Once baked, the shells become a deliciously cheesy and flavorful treat that pairs wonderfully with garlic bread and a fresh salad.

Ingredients:
– 12 ounces to 20 jumbo pasta shells
– 30 ounces whipped cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
– 8 ounces to 12 ounces mozzarella cheese
– 6 ounces grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Minced garlic
– Fresh parsley
– Fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper
– Homemade tomato sauce or store-bought marinara sauce

Instructions:
1. Begin by boiling the jumbo pasta shells according to the package directions, reducing the cooking time by 1-2 minutes to prevent overcooking. Drain the shells and set aside.
2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare your sauce. You can either make a homemade tomato sauce or simply heat up a jar of marinara sauce.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the whipped cottage or ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Stir until well blended.
4. Add minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, fresh basil leaves, and season with salt and pepper to the cheese mixture. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.
5. Using a cookie scoop, carefully fill each pasta shell with the cheese filling. Confirm they’re generously filled but not overflowing.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread 1/3 of the marinara sauce on the bottom. Arrange the filled shells in a single layer on top of the sauce.
7. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they’re well-covered.
8. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top of the shells for a delicious cheesy crust.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. After this, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

For the best results, consider making the stuffed shells ahead of time. You can assemble them and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

If freezing, defrost them overnight in the refrigerator before baking, or bake them directly from the freezer, adding a little extra baking time. Enjoy your delicious stuffed pasta shells with extra marinara sauce and garlic bread for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

As you wrap up your culinary adventure with stuffed pasta, remember that this dish offers endless possibilities for customization and creativity. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Variety is key: Explore different fillings like cheese, meats, or vegetables.
Assembly matters: Take your time to guarantee even filling and cooking. Stuffed pasta can be a fun activity that brings families together in the kitchen.
Freezing is an option: Prepare extra portions for future meals.
Experiment with flavors: Use various herbs and sauces to enhance taste.
Meticulous preparation is essential: Prepping ingredients in advance guarantees success.

Avoid common mistakes like overcooking pasta or skimping on seasoning.

Remember, flexibility is vital; adapt recipes to suit your tastes.

Finally, don’t forget that presentation can elevate your dining experience! Enjoy your stuffed pasta journey!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Stuffed Recipe?

Imagine a vibrant garden of flavors when you use gluten-free pasta for your dish. It’ll work beautifully, allowing you to savor every bite without compromising texture or taste. Enjoy your delicious creation!

What Kind of Cheese Works Best for Stuffing?

When choosing cheese for stuffing, you’ll love mozzarella for its meltiness, ricotta for creaminess, and parmesan for flavor. Combining these will give your dish a rich, balanced taste that everyone will enjoy.

How Do I Store Leftovers Properly?

To store leftovers properly, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. Add a bit of oil to prevent clumping, and refrigerate for up to five days.

Can I Freeze Stuffed Pasta for Later Use?

Yes, you can freeze stuffed pasta for later use. Just freeze it individually or as a casserole, then thaw completely before baking. This method helps preserve flavor and makes meal prep convenient for you.

What Are Some Alternative Fillings I Can Try?

You can try various alternative fillings like ricotta with spinach, mushrooms with parmesan, or seasonal options like butternut squash and pumpkin. Don’t forget sweet choices, too, like pears paired with cheese for a unique twist!