17 Best Italian Shells Recipe Dive Into Deliciousness!
Published on: Mar 16, 2024
If you're looking for the perfect Italian recipe to satisfy your craving for comfort food, look no further than Italian shells. This classic dish is a delicious combination of pasta shells, creamy ricotta cheese, and flavorful marinara sauce. Not only is it easy to make, but it's also a crowd-pleaser that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. In this article, we'll share our favorite recipe for Italian shells and some tips on how to make it the best it can be.
Main Ingredients: Jumbo Pasta Shells, Ricotta Cheese, Large Eggs, Grated
Stuffed shells are a classic Italian dish that is loved by many for its delicious flavors and versatility. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a dinner party or just looking for a comforting meal to enjoy at home. And what's even better is that there are endless variations of stuffed shells that you can make, each one more delicious than the last.
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Pesto Stuffed Shells
Main Ingredients: Frozen Spinach, Ricotta, Shredded Mozzarella, Basil
If you're a fan of pesto, then you'll absolutely love these pesto stuffed shells. The combination of creamy ricotta cheese and flavorful pesto creates a mouthwatering filling that is sure to impress your taste buds. Drizzle some extra pesto on top for an added burst of flavor.
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Ground Beef Stuffed Shells
Main Ingredients: Jumbo Pasta Shells, Ground Beef, Onion, Italian Style
For all the meat lovers out there, these ground beef stuffed shells are a must-try. The ground beef is seasoned with herbs and spices, giving it a rich and savory flavor. Paired with gooey melted cheese and topped with a homemade tomato sauce, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Amazing Stuffed Shells {TMH}
Main Ingredients: Spaghetti Sauce, Shells, Cottage Cheese, Sugar, Grated
Looking for a show-stopping dish that will impress your guests? Look no further than these amazing stuffed shells. The secret ingredient in this recipe is the addition of pancetta, which elevates the flavors and adds a touch of sophistication to the dish.
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Italian Stuffed Shells
Main Ingredients: Hamburger Meat, Crushed Tomatoes, Tomato Sauce, Onion
For a taste of traditional Italian cuisine, try these classic Italian stuffed shells. The filling consists of a combination of Italian sausage, spinach, and ricotta cheese, creating a delicious blend of flavors. Top it off with your favorite marinara sauce and some freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a truly authentic experience.
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Meat & Cheese Stuffed Shells
Main Ingredients: Shells, Chunky Tomato Sauce, Lean Ground Beef
Why choose between meat or cheese when you can have both? These meat and cheese stuffed shells are the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves a hearty and cheesy meal. The filling is a combination of ground beef, three types of cheese, and herbs, making it a rich and flavorful option.
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Spinach Stuffed Shells
Main Ingredients: Shells, Spinach, Garlic, Olive Oil, Ricotta Cheese
Ideal for vegetarians, these spinach stuffed shells are a delicious and nutritious option. The filling consists of a mixture of spinach, ricotta cheese, and seasonings, making it a healthy yet satisfying meal. Serve it with a side of garlic bread for a complete and satisfying dinner.
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Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Shells
Main Ingredients: Jumbo Pasta Shells, Olive Oil, Mushrooms, Garlic
If you're a fan of mushrooms, then you'll love these spinach and mushroom stuffed shells. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms combined with the creamy spinach and cheese filling create a delicious and comforting dish. Serve it with a side salad for a well-rounded meal.
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Easy Stuffed Shells
Main Ingredients: Pasta Sauce, Ground Sausage, Shells, Ricotta Cheese
Short on time but still want to enjoy some delicious stuffed shells? Try this easy stuffed shells recipe that requires minimal prep time and simple ingredients. It's perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
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Asiago Pancetta Stuffed Shells
Main Ingredients: Jumbo Shell Pasta, Olive Oil, Pancetta, Frozen Spinach
For a more gourmet take on the traditional stuffed shells, try this Asiago and pancetta stuffed shells recipe. The combination of Asiago cheese and pancetta creates a flavorful and sophisticated dish that is sure to impress your guests.
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Alfredo & Spinach Stuffed Shells
Main Ingredients: Ricotta Cheese, Parmesan Cheese, Shredded Mozzarella
If you're a fan of creamy sauces, then you'll love these Alfredo and spinach stuffed shells. The filling consists of a delicious blend of Alfredo sauce, spinach, and cheese, creating a rich and indulgent dish. Serve it with some roasted vegetables for a well-balanced meal.
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Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Main Ingredients: Shells, Olive Oil, Chicken, Alfredo Sauce, Ricotta
Take your stuffed shells to the next level by adding some chicken to the filling. These chicken Alfredo stuffed shells are a delicious and satisfying option for any occasion. The creamy Alfredo sauce and tender chicken make for a match made in heaven.
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Butternut Squash and Sage Stuffed Shells
Main Ingredients: Butter, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Shallots, Garlic
For a unique twist on stuffed shells, try this butternut squash and sage recipe. The creamy and slightly sweet butternut squash filling combined with the savory sage creates a delicious and unexpected flavor profile. This dish is perfect for the fall season and is sure to impress your guests.
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Lasagna Stuffed Shells
Main Ingredients: Jumbo Pasta Shells, Ground Beef, Chopped Onion, Tomato
If you can't decide between lasagna and stuffed shells, why not have both? These lasagna stuffed shells combine the best of both worlds, with all the flavors and ingredients of a classic lasagna stuffed inside jumbo pasta shells. It's a delicious and fun take on two classic dishes.
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Taco Stuffed Shells
Main Ingredients: Pasta Shells, Ground Beef, Taco Seasoning, Butter
Taco Tuesday just got a whole lot more exciting with these taco stuffed shells. The filling is a delicious combination of ground beef, spices, and cheese, giving you all the flavors of a classic taco in a fun and unique form. Serve it with some salsa and guacamole for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.
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Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Main Ingredients: Ricotta Cheese, Salt, Black Pepper, Parmesan Cheese
For a simple and classic stuffed shells recipe, try this ricotta stuffed shells option. The filling is made with a combination of creamy ricotta cheese, herbs, and spices, creating a rich and flavorful dish. It's perfect for those who prefer a more traditional take on stuffed shells.
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Seafood Stuffed Shells
Main Ingredients: Jumbo Pasta Shells, Butter, Mushrooms, Flour, Milk
If you're a fan of seafood, then you'll love these seafood stuffed shells. The filling is a delicious combination of shrimp, crab, and creamy cheese, giving you a taste of the ocean in every bite. Serve it with a side of garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Classic Stuffed Shells
Main Ingredients: Ragu Robusto Chopped Tomato, Olive Oil Garlic Pasta
Sometimes, you just can't beat a classic. These classic stuffed shells are made with a simple yet delicious filling of cheese, herbs, and spices, making it a timeless and comforting dish. It's perfect for any occasion, whether you're cooking for a crowd or just enjoying a cozy night in.
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Cheesy Italian Stuffed Shells with Beef
Main Ingredients: Salt, Jumbo Pasta Shells, Ground Beef, Italian
For a hearty and indulgent meal, try these cheesy Italian stuffed shells with beef. The filling is a delicious combination of ground beef, Italian seasonings, and three types of cheese, making it a rich and satisfying option. Serve it with a side of garlic bread for a complete and delicious meal.
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Sausage & Spinach Stuffed Shells
Main Ingredients: Shells, Mild Italian Sausage, Frozen Spinach, Ricotta
If you're a fan of sausage, then you'll love these sausage and spinach stuffed shells. The filling is a delicious combination of Italian sausage, spinach, and cheese, creating a flavorful and hearty dish. It's the perfect meal for a cozy night in or for a dinner party with friends.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
When it comes to creating the best Italian shells, the key is to start with high-quality ingredients. This means using fresh and authentic Italian ingredients, such as homemade marinara sauce and imported ricotta cheese. While these items may be a bit pricier than their store-bought counterparts, the difference in taste is noticeable and worth the extra cost.
Don't Skimp on the Cheese
One of the main components of Italian shells is the ricotta cheese filling. To ensure a creamy and flavorful dish, be sure to use enough cheese and mix it well with the other ingredients. Don't be afraid to add a little extra cheese if you want to make it more indulgent. And for an extra boost of flavor, try mixing in some freshly gratedparmesan cheese.
Experiment with Different Meat Options
While the traditional Italian shells recipe calls for ground beef, don't be afraid to get creative with your meat choices. You can use ground turkey for a leaner option or Italian sausage for a spicier kick. You can also try adding in some pancetta or prosciutto for a richer flavor.
Making the Perfect Shells
When it comes to cooking the pasta shells, it's important to follow the instructions on the package and not overcook them. Al dente shells are essential for a good texture and will prevent them from becoming mushy when baked in the oven. Additionally, make sure to drain the shells well and run them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Layering for Maximum Flavor
To create the best Italian shells, it's important to layer the ingredients properly. Start with a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish, followed by a layer of cooked shells, and then the ricotta cheese filling. Repeat these layers until you reach the top of the dish, and then finish with a final layer of sauce and a generous sprinkling of cheese.
Bake to Perfection
Once your shells are assembled, it's time to bake them in the oven. This will not only heat up the dish but also meld all the flavors together. To get a perfectly bubbly and golden-brown top, bake the shells at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes.
In conclusion, Italian shells are a delicious and comforting dish that can be easily made at home. By using high-quality ingredients and following these tips, you can create the best Italian shells that will impress your family and friends. So why not give this recipe a try and taste the flavors of Italy in your own kitchen?