Introduction
Ah, Christmas time—a season filled with joy, warmth, and the irresistible aroma of home-cooked meals. What better way to celebrate than with a comforting dish of Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells? These delightful pasta shells are generously filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture and baked in a rich marinara sauce, making them a perfect holiday treat for your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or looking for a comforting meal to enjoy at home, these stuffed shells are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to your table.
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups spinach, cooked and chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for achieving that golden, bubbly cheese we all adore!
- In a large pot, cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until they are al dente. Once done, drain them carefully and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, cooked spinach, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well blended and creamy.
- Now it’s time for the fun part! Gently stuff each cooked shell with the cheesy spinach mixture. Don’t be shy—fill them generously!
- Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish, creating a luscious base for your shells.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish, and then pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, allowing it to seep into the shells.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and turns a gorgeous golden brown.
- Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh basil before serving for that extra touch of color and flavor!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize the filling by adding other ingredients, such as cooked ground meat or different veggies, to suit your taste. For a little extra zing, consider topping the baked shells with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes before serving!
Cooking Techniques
When cooking the pasta shells, be sure not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven. A quick rinse under cold water after draining can help stop the cooking process. Mixing your cheeses thoroughly ensures a rich and creamy filling, while layering the marinara sauce both on the bottom and on top of the shells prevents them from drying out during baking.
FAQ
Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the shells and stuff them a day in advance. Just cover them and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then follow the baking instructions.
What can I serve with stuffed shells?
These delicious stuffed shells pair wonderfully with a fresh garden salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
With their cheesy, savory filling and vibrant marinara sauce, these Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells are bound to become a cherished tradition at your holiday gatherings. They exemplify cozy comfort food while remaining simple enough to whip up on any festive occasion. Gather your loved ones, serve a steaming plate of these scrumptious shells, and enjoy the joy of the season together!