Best Christmas Stuffed Shells are a delightful and comforting dish, perfect for your holiday gatherings. With creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and a hint of spinach stuffed inside tender jumbo pasta shells, this recipe strikes the ideal balance of flavors and nutrition. Rich in protein and loaded with cheesy goodness, Best Christmas Stuffed Shells are not just delicious but also a filling and nutritious meal everyone will enjoy.
Why make this Best Christmas Stuffed Shells recipe
- Protein-rich: Each serving is packed with protein from the cheeses and egg, making it a satisfying meal.
- Quick prep: Despite its impressive flavor, this dish can be assembled quickly, making it perfect for busy holiday seasons.
- Meal-prep friendly: Best Christmas Stuffed Shells can be made ahead of time and frozen, so you can still enjoy a homemade meal without the last-minute rush.
- Budget-friendly: Using simple, cost-effective ingredients allows for a delicious and affordable meal.
- Kid-approved: Kids love cheesy dishes, making this a hit for family dinners.
"This dish has become a holiday tradition in our home! Everyone loves it!" – Happy Home Chef
How to make Best Christmas Stuffed Shells
Making these stuffed shells is simpler than you might think! Gather your mixing bowl, a baking dish, and your ingredients, then follow these easy steps to create an unforgettable holiday meal. Be sure to check out our healthy meal prep ideas as well.
Ingredients
- Jumbo pasta shells
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Spinach
- Marinara sauce
- Egg
- Garlic
- Salt
- Pepper
- Italian seasoning
When preparing the Best Christmas Stuffed Shells, you can make substitutions based on your dietary needs. For a low-fat version, consider using part-skim or low-fat cheeses. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, plant-based cheeses can work well too.
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, spinach, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the cheese mixture and arrange them in a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
For additional serving inspiration, check out our Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta recipe.
How to serve Best Christmas Stuffed Shells
These stuffed shells are best served warm, straight from the oven, with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for an extra pop of color. Pair them with a simple side salad or a slice of garlic bread to round out your meal. For a nutritious touch, include steamed veggies or a light soup to balance the richness of the Best Christmas Stuffed Shells.
How to store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the stuffed shells for up to 2 months. To reheat, place in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. For safe storage timing, see USDA FoodData Central.
Tips to make
- To avoid overcooking your pasta, cook the shells just until al dente; they will continue cooking while baking.
- If you’re pressed for time, you’re welcome to use pre-made marinara sauce.
- For added flavor, consider sautéing the spinach in garlic and olive oil before mixing it into the cheese filling.
- To prevent the cheese from becoming too firm, allow the stuffed shells to cool slightly before serving.
- If you want an extra cheesy dish, sprinkle some additional mozzarella on top before the final bake.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Omit any meat and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Meat Lover’s: Incorporate ground turkey or beef into the cheese mixture for a heartier option.
- Herbs: Substitute Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a burst of freshness.
- Sauce: Swap marinara for alfredo sauce for a creamy twist on the classic stuffed shell.
FAQs
Can I prepare Best Christmas Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate or freeze until you’re ready to bake. Just add about 10 extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from frozen.
What can I serve with Best Christmas Stuffed Shells?
Pair your Best Christmas Stuffed Shells with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Garlic bread is also a popular accompaniment.
Can I freeze Best Christmas Stuffed Shells?
Yes! You can freeze the stuffed shells before or after baking. Just ensure they’re properly sealed to avoid freezer burn.
For additional cooking tips and nutrition information, visit Healthline.
Best Christmas Stuffed Shells are sure to become a highlight of your holiday meals and family gatherings. We invite you to try this delicious recipe and let us know how it turns out! Feel free to comment below and share your experience with others.
Best Christmas Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
Pasta and Cheese Filling
- 12 pieces Jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Spinach Fresh or frozen, chopped
- 1 large Egg
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Sauce
- 2 cups Marinara sauce Can use pre-made marinara sauce
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, spinach, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the cheese mixture and arrange them in a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
Baking
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Serve warm and enjoy!