Stuffed Shells: A Delectable Italian Delight! 🍝🧀✨

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Delight your taste buds with the savory goodness of Stuffed Shells—an Italian classic that combines pasta, rich ricotta, and flavorful marinara sauce. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a hearty dinner, these stuffed shells are sure to impress. Let’s dive into creating this delectable Italian delight that will have everyone asking for seconds! 🍽️🍝✨

Ingredients:

For the Stuffed Shells:

  • 1 box (12 ounces) jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Marinara Sauce:

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

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta Shells:

  1. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Filling:

  1. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Shells:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spoon the ricotta mixture into each cooked pasta shell, ensuring they are generously filled.

Make the Marinara Sauce:

  1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in crushed tomatoes and add dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Bake the Stuffed Shells:

  1. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
  2. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish.
  3. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, ensuring they are well-covered.
  4. Sprinkle additional mozzarella and Parmesan on top for a cheesy finish.
  5. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
  6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve the Stuffed Shells hot from the oven.

Optional Tips:

  • Add cooked and crumbled Italian sausage to the ricotta filling for a meaty variation.
  • Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or fontina for added flavor.

Stuffed Shells stand out as a comforting and indulgent dish that beautifully encapsulates the essence of Italian cuisine. The richness of a cheesy filling nestled within pasta shells, complemented by a flavorful marinara sauce, creates a harmonious celebration of tastes and textures. Whether prepared for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, these Stuffed Shells are destined to secure a special place in your culinary repertoire, offering a delightful and satisfying experience with every bite.🍝🧀✨

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