When it comes to hearty Italian dishes, stuffed shells truly shine as a flavorful and satisfying option. These jumbo pasta shells are filled with creamy ricotta, savory smoked sausage, and nutritious kale, all topped with a rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, prepping for a potluck, or just craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
Not only do stuffed shells deliver on taste, but they also provide a delightful way to incorporate vegetables into your meal. The combination of ingredients creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making every bite an experience to savor. Plus, this dish can be made ahead of time, allowing for convenient meal prep that fits into your busy lifestyle.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to love stuffed shells, but here are just a few that stand out:
- Flavorful Filling: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, smoked sausage, and kale creates a savory filling that is both rich and satisfying.
- Customizable: This recipe is versatile! Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. You can use ground beef, turkey, or even a vegetarian filling with mushrooms and spinach.
- Make Ahead: Stuffed shells can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer. Simply bake them when you’re ready to serve, making them a perfect option for busy weeknights.
- Kid-Friendly: The cheesy filling and comforting pasta make this dish a hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
- Impressive Presentation: When baked and topped with marinara and melted cheese, stuffed shells look stunning on the dinner table, perfect for gatherings and special occasions.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Trying out this stuffed shells recipe is not just about enjoying a meal; it’s an opportunity to explore the rich culinary traditions of Italy right in your kitchen. This dish is an excellent way to develop your cooking skills, particularly in pasta preparation.
Moreover, with the inclusion of kale, this recipe is a great way to add nutritious greens to your diet without sacrificing taste. The smoked sausage gives a unique flavor that elevates the dish, while the cheeses provide that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture we all love. Plus, it’s a fun dish to make with family or friends, turning cooking into an enjoyable social event.
Once you master this stuffed shells recipe, you’ll have a reliable meal that can be adapted to fit any dietary needs or preferences. From bursting with protein to being vegetarian-friendly, this recipe can cater to everyone at your table, making it a must-try in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils
To make these delicious stuffed shells, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells – Ensure they are large enough for stuffing.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – Creamy and rich, this cheese provides the perfect base for the filling.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Adds a gooey texture and flavor.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For a salty, cheesy kick.
- 1 cup cooked smoked sausage, chopped – Adds a delightful smoky flavor.
- 2 cups kale, chopped – Nutrient-packed and adds a lovely color.
- 1 cup marinara sauce – The perfect sauce to tie everything together.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For added flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs to enhance the taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional) – For a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Additionally, you’ll need the following utensils for a successful cooking experience:
- Large pot: To boil the pasta shells.
- Mixing bowl: For combining the filling ingredients.
- Spoon or piping bag: To fill the pasta shells easily.
- 9×13 inch baking dish: For baking the stuffed shells.
- Aluminum foil: To cover the dish while baking.
Detailed Recipe Steps
Now that you have all your ingredients and tools, let’s dive into the preparation of these delicious stuffed shells. Follow these steps closely for the best results:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for baking.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain them and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped smoked sausage, chopped kale, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined. This will be your delicious filling.
- Stuff the Shells: Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the cheese and sausage mixture. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for easier filling. **Make sure not to overstuff, as they might burst during baking.**
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in the dish seam side up. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells, ensuring they are well coated.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese generously over the stuffed shells to create a delicious cheesy topping.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. **Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!**
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your delightful stuffed shells!
FAQs
Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells in advance. Assemble them and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them for longer storage!
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
You can substitute ricotta cheese with cottage cheese, cream cheese, or a vegan alternative like tofu blended with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Can I use different meats in stuffed shells?
Absolutely! Ground beef, turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian options like sautéed mushrooms can be used in place of smoked sausage in your stuffed shells.
How do I store leftover stuffed shells?
Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
What side dishes go well with stuffed shells?
Stuffed shells pair well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Consider a classic Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad with lemon dressing.
Conclusion
In summary, this stuffed shells recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and satisfaction to your dining table. With a rich filling, delicious marinara, and gooey cheese, it’s hard to resist. We encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this delightful dish with your friends and family, and consider exploring other delicious recipes on our blog like Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs for more flavorful meals!
Stuffed Shells
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Dish
- Spoon or Piping Bag
- Aluminum Foil
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 20 pieces Jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese
- 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese divided
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Cooked smoked sausage chopped
- 2 cups Kale chopped
- 1 cup Marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- to taste Salt and pepper
- for garnish Fresh basil optional
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, cooked smoked sausage, chopped kale, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the cheese and sausage mixture. Use a spoon or a piping bag for easier filling.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in the dish, seam side up. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the stuffed shells.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious stuffed shells!
