How do you make stuffed shells? If you’re looking to impress your guests with a delicious and elegant meal, stuffed shells are a fantastic choice. These Italian-inspired pasta dishes are filled with a rich and flavorful meat or cheese mixture, encased in a perfectly cooked pasta shell. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this article will guide you through the process of creating mouthwatering stuffed shells that are sure to delight everyone at the table.
Before diving into the recipe, let’s start with some essential ingredients and equipment. To make stuffed shells, you’ll need pasta shells, ground meat (such as beef, pork, or a combination of both), ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, eggs, garlic, onions, parsley, salt, and pepper. You’ll also need a large pot for boiling the pasta, a skillet for cooking the meat mixture, and a baking dish to assemble and bake the stuffed shells.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make stuffed shells:
1.
Start by boiling the pasta shells in a large pot of salted water until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
2.
In a skillet, cook the ground meat over medium heat until browned. Add minced garlic and chopped onions to the skillet, and cook until fragrant. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3.
In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, grated mozzarella cheese, eggs, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4.
Combine the cooked meat mixture with the cheese mixture, and mix until well incorporated.
5.
Spoon the meat and cheese mixture into the cooked pasta shells, filling them to the top. Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish, and pour a jar of marinara sauce over the top.
6.
Bake the stuffed shells in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7.
Remove the stuffed shells from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes, and then serve hot.
Optional: For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of the stuffed shells before baking. This will add a delightful flavor and a beautiful golden color to the dish.
Enjoy your homemade stuffed shells with a side of garlic bread, a green salad, or a simple pasta sauce. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner. With a little practice, you’ll be able to create restaurant-quality stuffed shells that will have everyone asking for seconds.
