Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells Recipe

The Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells Recipe is the perfect dish for your holiday celebrations. These delightful stuffed shells are filled with creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, making them a delicious vegetarian option that everyone will love. They are not only easy to prepare but also visually stunning, adding a festive touch to your table. Ideal for family gatherings or intimate dinners, this recipe showcases the flavors of the season while being quick to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious dish ready in no time.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of ricotta, spinach, and spices creates a rich and satisfying filling that delights every palate.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or side dish, these stuffed shells fit seamlessly into any holiday meal plan.
• Garnish-Friendly: Top with fresh parsley and extra cheese for an attractive presentation that impresses guests.
• Easy Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers or meal prep throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some must-have items for preparing your Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A sturdy pot is crucial for boiling the jumbo pasta shells evenly without sticking together.
• Baking dish: Choosing a quality baking dish ensures even cooking and makes serving easier during holidays.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Shells

• 18 to 20 jumbo pasta shells
• Extra-virgin olive oil (for drizzling)

For the Filling

• 5 ounces fresh spinach
• 2 cups ricotta cheese (16 ounces)
• 1/4 cup grated pecorino cheese (and extra for sprinkling)
• 2 grated garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 3/4 teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for pasta water)
• Freshly ground black pepper

For Serving

• 2 cups marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your stuffed shells cook evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

1. Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of sea salt.
2. Bring it to a boil over high heat.
3. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
4. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, pecorino cheese, garlic, oregano, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, sea salt, and black pepper.
2. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

1. Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta filling mixture.
2. Place each stuffed shell in a greased baking dish.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Bake

1. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells in the baking dish.
2. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle additional pecorino cheese on top.
3. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
4. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving hot with additional marinara sauce on the side. Enjoy your delicious Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells!

How to Serve Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells Recipe

Serving your Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells can elevate your holiday meal experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to make your dish shine.

Family Style

• Share the stuffed shells in a large baking dish, allowing everyone to serve themselves. This creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for your holiday gathering.

Individual Plates

• For a more elegant presentation, serve each stuffed shell on individual plates, topped with marinara sauce and garnished with fresh parsley. This adds a touch of sophistication to your dinner.

With a Salad

• Pair the stuffed shells with a crisp green salad. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic dressing complements the richness of the dish perfectly.

Bread Basket

• Offer a variety of bread, such as garlic bread or crusty rolls, for dipping into the marinara sauce. This enhances the meal and adds a comforting element.

Wine Pairing (Non-Alcoholic)

• Serve sparkling grape juice or non-alcoholic wine as a festive drink option that pairs well with the flavors of the stuffed shells.

How to Perfect Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells Recipe

To ensure your Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells are a hit, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality cheeses make a noticeable difference in flavor. Opt for ingredients from local markets when possible.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook pasta shells al dente; they will continue cooking in the oven. This keeps them sturdy enough for stuffing.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or spices based on your preference for heat and flavor.
• Cover While Baking: Cover with foil during the first half of baking to prevent over-browning. Remove it later for a nice golden top.
• Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of extra pecorino cheese and fresh parsley elevates both taste and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells Recipe

Complement your Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells with these delectable side dishes that enhance the overall dining experience.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter adds crunch and flavor, perfect for scooping up sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to rich stuffed shells.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots roasted until caramelized add color and nutrition to your plate.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil create a light side that balances hearty flavors.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer comfort without overpowering the main dish.
6. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans provide freshness and a pop of color alongside your stuffed shells.
7. Minestrone Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable-rich minestrone can kick off your meal nicely while keeping it light.
8. Quinoa Salad: A vibrant quinoa salad loaded with vegetables can serve as a nutritious side packed with protein.

These suggestions will help you create an enjoyable dining experience around your Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells Recipe!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make common errors when preparing stuffed shells. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Overcooking the pasta: Overcooked shells can break apart. Cook them al dente, and they will hold up better during baking.
• Skipping seasoning: Lack of seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always season your filling and sauce well to enhance taste.
• Not draining spinach properly: Excess moisture from spinach can make the filling watery. Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible before mixing.
• Using cold ricotta: Cold cheese can lead to uneven cooking. Allow ricotta cheese to come to room temperature before mixing for a smoother filling.
• Neglecting sauce coverage: Not enough sauce can dry out the shells while baking. Ensure your shells are well-covered in marinara sauce for optimal moisture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells Recipe

• Place cooled stuffed shells in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place shells on a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet with a little marinara sauce until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells Recipe.

Can I make Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance. Just assemble them and store in the fridge until ready to bake.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or even vegan cream cheese for a plant-based version.

How do I customize Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells Recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini into the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

Can I freeze leftovers of Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells Recipe?

Absolutely! Follow proper freezing instructions, and they will taste great even after being frozen.

Final Thoughts

This Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells Recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that will impress your guests during the holiday season. It’s versatile enough for customization with different fillings or sauces, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that brings festive cheer!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Experience the joy of the holiday season with this Easy special occasion Stuffed Shells Recipe. These delightful jumbo pasta shells are generously filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and aromatic spices, making them a perfect vegetarian option that everyone will adore. The vibrant colors and flavors create an inviting dish for family gatherings or intimate dinners alike. Not only are they simple to prepare in just 15 minutes, but they also reheat beautifully, making leftovers a tasty treat throughout the week. Serve these beautiful stuffed shells topped with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a festive touch that will impress your guests.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 18 to 20 jumbo pasta shells
• Extra-virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
• 5 ounces fresh spinach
• 2 cups ricotta cheese (16 ounces)
• 1/4 cup grated pecorino cheese (and extra for sprinkling)
• 2 grated garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 3/4 teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for pasta water)
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, spinach, pecorino, garlic, oregano, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each shell with about 2 tablespoons of the filling and place them in a greased baking dish.
5. Cover with marinara sauce and drizzle with olive oil. Bake covered for 20 minutes and uncovered for another 10 minutes until bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 stuffed shells (approximately 304g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 55mg