Million Dollar Stuffed Shells - The Ultimate Comfort Food

Quick-Answer Summary Line: A creamy and cheesy pasta delight that brings everyone to the table.

Format: Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 4-6 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Quick Answer

These stuffed shells are easy to prepare, filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, topped with marinara sauce, and baked until bubbly.

As the chilly autumn air begins to settle in New York City and holiday decorations start to twinkle in shop windows, my thoughts inevitably turn to comfort food. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, I find myself craving dishes that not only warm the soul but also bring people together. One delightful creation that has become a staple in my kitchen is Million Dollar Stuffed Shells. These jumbo pasta shells are not only a feast for the eyes; they offer a creamy, cheesy experience that leaves everyone at the table asking for seconds.

A Cozy Holiday Treat

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Indulge in the rich, creamy filling that makes these shells irresistible.
• Perfect for family gatherings or holiday celebrations, bringing everyone together.
• Easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time for convenience.
• Customizable with different cheeses or additional ingredients for a personal touch.
• Leftovers make for a delicious meal that you can enjoy for days.

Ingredients

To create these delicious Million Dollar Stuffed Shells, gather the following ingredients:

Pasta and Cheese

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg

Seasoning and Sauce

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (like basil and oregano)
• 1 jar (about 24 oz) marinara sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Million Dollar Stuffed Shells (Step-by-Step)

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Million Dollar Stuffed Shells:

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the jumbo shells. Cook them for about 9-10 minutes or until they are al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. As they cook, the warm kitchen fills with the comforting scent of pasta.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, the egg, minced garlic, and Italian herbs. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until the textures become creamy and fragrant, creating a perfect filling that's rich yet light.

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

Drain the cooked shells and let them cool slightly. Using a spoon, carefully fill each shell with the ricotta mixture, taking the time to ensure each shell is generously stuffed for that burst of cheesy goodness.

Step 4: Layer with Sauce

In a 9x13-inch baking dish, pour a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom. Arrange the filled shells on top, then drizzle more marinara over, ensuring each shell is nicely coated. Finally, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan over the dish.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let the dish sit for about 5 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, adding a lovely color and fresh taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Keep the shells al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy when filled and baked.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Don't forget to season your cheese mixture - it's essential for flavor!
• Rushing the Cooling Process: Let the stuffed shells sit for a few minutes after baking; this makes serving so much easier and avoids burning your mouth with molten cheese.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Experiment with different cheese combinations - a hint of goat cheese or a sprinkle of feta may add a delightful twist.
• For a heartier dish, consider adding cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the cheese filling.
• You can prepare these shells in advance! Assemble them, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking.

Variations

• Swap ricotta for cottage cheese for a lighter option.
• Use different pasta shapes like manicotti or cannelloni.
• Incorporate diced roasted red peppers for a hint of sweetness.
• Add cooked ground beef or sausage for extra protein.
• Try different marinara sauces, such as spicy arrabbiata or a creamy pink sauce.

How to Serve

• Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
• Pair with a simple side salad for a light meal.
• Serve with my Simple Garlic Roasted Green Beans.
• Offer garlic bread on the side for a comforting touch.
• Drizzle with extra marinara or pesto for added flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: Assemble the stuffed shells, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking.
• Storage: Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Add a splash of water when reheating to keep the sauce from drying out; warm gently in the oven until heated through.
• Freezing: You can freeze assembled shells before baking. Wrap securely and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

Recipe Notes / What I Learned

While perfecting my Million Dollar Stuffed Shells, I discovered that filling the shells can become a creative outlet! Each time I made them, I played with ratios and flavors, finding joy in the filling process. Cooking is all about personal touches, and I encourage you to make this dish your own!

Yield and Serving Size

Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 5 stuffed shells

Nutrition Snapshot

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~430 calories · 20g protein · 48g carbs · 18g fat

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