Name: Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells - Delicious Dinner Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 18-20 shells
Ingredients: 18 to 20 jumbo pasta shells; Extra-virgin olive oil (for drizzling); 5 ounces fresh spinach; 2 cups ricotta cheese (16 ounces); 1/4 cup grated pecorino cheese (and extra for sprinkling); 2 grated garlic cloves; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 3/4 teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for pasta water); Freshly ground black pepper; 2 cups marinara sauce (plus extra for serving); Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe, a dish that whispers tnon-alcoholic ales of cozy holidays and heartwarming family gatherings, is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary hug. Imagin extracte plump pasta shells, cradling a creamy, savory filling, all nestled in a rich, bubbling tomato sauce. This is the kind of comfort food that instantly transports you to a place of pure festive joy. What makes this particular Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe so beloved? It’s the perfect balance of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly spectacular. We’ve perfected a blend of ricotta, Parmesan, and aromatic herbs that bake into a delightful surprise within each shell. The sheer delight on your loved ones’ faces as they discover this hidden treasure is a gift in itself. This is the magic of the Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe – it’s achievable, unforgettable, and undeniably delicious, making it a cornerstone of any holiday spread.

Ingredients:

18 to 20 jumbo pasta shells
Extra-virgin extract olive oil (for drizzling)
5 ounces fresh spinach
2 cups ricotta cheese (16 ounces)
1/4 cup grated pecorino cheese (and extra for sprinkling)
2 grated garlic cloves
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
3/4 teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for pasta water)
Freshly ground black pepper
2 cups marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)
Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Preparing the Pasta Shells

Boiling the Jumbo Shells

This is where our Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe gin extractly begins. To get started, I like to bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. It’s essential to use a generously sized pot to give the shells plenty of room to move around, preventing them from sticking together. Don’t be shy with the salt; season the water generously, much like you would for any pasta dish. This is your first opportunity to infuse flavor into the shells themselves.

Once the water is vigorously boiling, carefully add the jumbo pasta shells. I usually add them one by one, or in small batches if they’re all in the same bag, to avoid splashing and to ensure they don’t clump up immediately. Cook the shells according to the package directions, but I always recommend cooking them just until they are al dente. This means they should still have a slight bite to them, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked shells can become mushy, and we want that delightful texture contrast in our final dish. Once they’ve reached the perfect al dente stage, drain them very gently. You can rinse them briefly with cool water to stop the cooking process and make them easier to handle. I find laying them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a clean kitchen towel helps prevent them from sticking to each other while you prepare the filling. A light drizgin extract of extra-virgin olive oil over the drained shells can also help keep them separated and add a touch of richness.

Creating the Flavorful Filling

Whipping Up the Ricotta Mixture

Now, let’s move on to the heart of our Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe: the filling. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of creamy ricotta cheese with the 1/4 cup of grated pecorino cheese. The pecorino cheese adds a wonderful salty and slightly nutty depth that complements the mild ricotta beautifully. Next, add the 2 grated garlic cloves. Grating the garlic ensures it disperses evenly and releases its pungent flavor without any harsh chunks.

To this base, we’ll add our aromatic seasonings. Stir in the 1 teaspoon of dried oregano for that classic Italian herb note, and the 1 teaspoon of lemon zest. The lemon zest is a secret weapon that brightens up the entire filling, cutting through the richness of the cheese and adding a lovely freshness. Don’t skip this step! For a little warmth and a touch of festive heat, add the 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. You can adjust this amount if you prefer more or less spice. Season generously with 3/4 teaspoon of sea salt and a good grinding of fresh black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s thoroughly combined and has a smooth, consistent texture. Taste the filling at this point and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Remember, this filling will coat the inside of the shells, so ensure it’s well-seasoned.

Incorporating the Fresh Spinach

The spinach adds a beautiful pop of color and a boost of nutrients to our Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe. For the 5 ounces of fresh spinach, you have a couple of options for preparation. You can finely chop the raw spinach and mix it directly into the ricotta mixture. This will give you small flecks of green throughout the filling. Alternatively, for a more integrated and softer spinach texture, you can lightly wilt the spinach before chopping. To do this, simply place the spinach in a microwave-safe bowl with a tablespoon of water and microwave on high for about 1-2 minutes, or until it’s just wilted. Drain any excess water thoroughly and then give it a good chop. Squeeze out any remaining moisture by pressing it between your hands or in a clean kitchen towel – this is crucial to prevent a watery filling. Once prepared, gently fold the chopped spinach into the ricotta cheese mixture until it’s evenly distributed. The vibrant green against the creamy white of the cheese is a visually appealing part of this dish, hinting at the deliciousness to come.

Assembling and Baking the Dish

Layering the Flavors

Now it’s time to assemble our masterpiece! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take your chosen baking dish – a 9×13 inch dish is ideal for this quantity. Spread about half a cup of the marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. This bottom layer of sauce acts as a flavor foundation and helps prevent the stuffed shells from sticking to the dgin extract.

Next, carefully begin to stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta and spinach filling. A small spoon or even a piping bag (if you want to be really precise) works well for this. Don’t overstuff the shells; aim for a generous but manageable amount. Arrange the filled shells snugly in the prepared baking dish, nestled into the marinara sauce. Try to place them in a single layer as much as possible, with the opening of the shell facing upwards so the filling is visible and can brown slightly. It’s a satisfying process, seeing the shells come together in the dish.

Crowning the Shells and Baking to Perfection

Once all the shells are filled and arranged in the baking dish, it’s time to generously cover them with the remaining marinara sauce. Spoon the rest of the 2 cups of marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring each shell is well-coated. You can gently push some of the sauce down around the sides to make sure all the pasta is covered. This will keep the shells moist and infuse them with the rich tomato flavor as they bake. For an extra touch of cheesy goodness, sprinkle some additional grated pecorino cheese over the top of the marinara sauce. This will create a lovely golden-brown, slightly crisp topping as it bakes.

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This is important for the initial baking stage, as it helps to steam the shells and ensure the filling cooks through evenly without the sauce drying out. Place the covered dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. After this initial period, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden. This final uncovered stage allows for a beautiful presentation and develops a slight crispness on the top.

The Grand Finnon-alcoholic ale: Garnishing and Serving

Once your Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe has emerged from the oven, looking and smelling irresistible, let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve without the shells falling apart. Just before presenting your culinary creation, give it a generous garnish of freshly chopped parsley. The bright green of the parsley adds a fresh visual contrast to the rich red sauce and creamy filling, making your dish look as festive as it tastes. You can also agin extractan extra drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil over the top for a touch more richness and shine. Serve the stuffed shells directly from the baking dish, offering extra marinara sauce on the side for those who like a little extra sauciness. This dish is perfect as a main course and pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. Enjoy the delightful textures and flavors of your homemade, easy Christmas stuffed shells!

Conclusion:

And there you have it – a complete guide to creating the most delightful Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe! We’ve walked through each step, from preparing the tender pasta shells to crafting that rich, flavorful filling and topping it all off with a generous blanket of melted cheese. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, perfect for gathering loved ones around the table during the festive season. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is designed to be approachable and rewarding, bringin extractg smiles and satisfied sighs with every bite.

For serving, consider pairing your Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette, or some crusty garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. The beauty of this recipe also lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, add a pinch of nutmeg to the ricotta mixture for an extra festive aroma, or incorporate some sautéed spinach for added color and nutrition. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!

We truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this wonderful dish. May your Christmas be filled with delicious food and cherished memories!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make the Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.

What kind of pasta shells are best for this recipe?

Jumbo pasta shells are ideal for the Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe as they are perfectly sized for holding a generous amount of filling. Look for shells that are specifically labeled as “jumbo” or “manicotti” shells, though regular manicotti tubes can also work in a pinch.

Can I freeze the Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe?

Yes, you can! You can freeze the assembled but unbaked Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe. Ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, or bake directly from frozen, adding a significant amount of extra baking time (likely 20-30 minutes longer) and ensuring the dish is bubbling hot throughout.