How To Cook Stuffed Shells In The Oven

Welcome to the Delightful World of Stuffed Shells in the Oven!

Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than stuffed shells cooked to perfection in the oven! This classic Italian dish is not only incredibly flavorful but also simple to prepare. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating a mouthwatering stuffed shells masterpiece.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before embarking on your culinary adventure, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients at your fingertips. Here’s your shopping list:

1 box of jumbo pasta shells
1 pound of ground meat (beef, chicken, or turkey)
1 cup of ricotta cheese
1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon of dried oregano
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 jar of your favorite marinara sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

Prepare the Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Be careful not to overcook them as they will continue to soften in the oven. Once cooked, drain the shells and rinse them with cold water to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, parsley, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix all the ingredients until well combined.

Stuff and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take each cooked shell and carefully fill it with a spoonful of the delicious filling mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish, ensuring they fit snugly. Pour the marinara sauce over the shells, covering them entirely. For an extra touch of cheesy goodness, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top.

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the filling is hot and bubbly. For a crunchy, golden finish, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Serve and Enjoy!

Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve the stuffed shells piping hot. Pair them with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Now that you have mastered the art of cooking stuffed shells in the oven, you can impress your loved ones any day of the week with this delightful dish. Get creative with the filling by adding cooked spinach, mushrooms, or even lobster for a gourmet twist. Happy cooking!

Want to share your experiences making stuffed shells or discuss baking techniques with other home cooks? Join the conversation in the Baking and Desserts forum!

FAQ:

Can I make the stuffing for the shells in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing for the shells in advance. Simply cook the filling ingredients, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to assemble the stuffed shells, just fill the shells with the pre-made stuffing and proceed with the remaining steps.

Do I need to pre-cook the pasta shells before stuffing?

It is recommended to partially cook the pasta shells before stuffing them. Cook them according to the package instructions, but reducing the cooking time by a few minutes. This will ensure that the shells are pliable enough to be filled without becoming too mushy while baking in the oven.

What filling options can I use for the stuffed shells?

There are numerous filling options you can use for stuffed shells. Some popular choices include a mixture of ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and spinach. However, you can also experiment with other ingredients such as ground meat, vegetables, or a combination of different cheeses. Let your creativity shine and customize the filling to your taste!

How should I arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish?

Place the stuffed shells side by side in a single layer in a baking dish. Make sure to leave a little space between each shell, as they may expand slightly while cooking. This will allow the heat to circulate evenly, ensuring that all the shells cook thoroughly and evenly.

Can I freeze the stuffed shells before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed shells before baking them. Once you have assembled the shells, place them in a freezer-safe container or a baking dish tightly covered with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then bake according to the recipe instructions.

How long do stuffed shells need to bake in the oven?

Stuffed shells typically need to bake in the oven for approximately 25-30 minutes. The exact baking time may vary depending on the size of the shells and the filling used. To ensure that they are fully cooked, the internal temperature of the filling should reach 165°F (74°C) when tested with a food thermometer.

Can I add sauce on top of the stuffed shells before baking?

Absolutely! Adding sauce on top of the stuffed shells before baking can enhance the flavor and create a more moist and tender final result. You can use marinara sauce, white sauce, or a combination of both. Pour the desired amount of sauce over the shells, making sure to cover them evenly, before placing them in the oven.

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