Best Christmas Stuffed Shells

In my kitchen, this dish always brings smiles and warm memories. Best Christmas Stuffed Shells are not just another holiday recipe; they are a hearty and festive meal that perfectly combines comfort and flavor. Imagine giant pasta shells filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture and topped with delicious marinara sauce – it’s simple to prepare and makes a delightful centerpiece for your holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

These stuffed shells are a sensational choice for any occasion, but they shine brightest during the holidays. Each bite is a celebration of flavors and textures that pleases both kids and adults alike. Plus, they are relatively quick to prepare and budget-friendly, making them an ideal choice when cooking for many.

“These stuffed shells were a huge hit at our family gathering! They look impressive but are so easy to make. I can’t wait to make them again!”

Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Step-by-Step Overview

Let’s dive right into the delightful process of making Best Christmas Stuffed Shells! You’ll be cooking, stuffing, and baking these yummy shells in no time. Here’s how we’ll bring this dish together:

1. Preheat your oven.
2. Cook the pasta shells.
3. Make the cheese filling.
4. Stuff the shells.
5. Layer with marinara and bake.

What You’ll Need

Gather These Items:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Feel free to play around with the cheese types based on your preferences!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and cool.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Stuff each pasta shell generously with the cheese mixture.
5. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover them with the remaining marinara sauce.
6. If you love extra cheesy goodness, sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top!
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your festive dish!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

These stuffed shells are fantastic served straight from the oven, bubbling and golden. Pair them with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine or sparkling apple cider also complements the festive flavors beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To enjoy these delicious shells later, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. If you’re planning to make them ahead, they can be assembled and frozen before baking. Just allow extra time for cooking if baking from frozen!

Helpful Cooking Tips

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh herbs or high-quality cheeses can elevate the flavor immensely.
• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to add spinach, ground beef, or even roasted vegetables to the cheese mixture for added nutrition.
• Don’t rush the cooling: Let the shells cool slightly after cooking to make stuffing them a breeze.

Creative Twists

Feel like mixing it up? Here are a few fun variations on this recipe:

• Add Meat: Incorporate crumbled beef or turkey into the cheese filling for a heartier version.
• Spice it Up: Mix in some red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cheese with a dairy-free ricotta made from nuts.

Nutrition Table

Dive into this comforting, satisfying dish, and let Best Christmas Stuffed Shells bring warmth to your holiday table! Happy cooking!