Dive into the heart of Eastern European cuisines with this pierogi stuffed shells recipe. It's a delightful fusion of Italian and Polish culinary traditions. These stuffed shells are filled with a savory filling of mashed potatoes, cheese, bacon bits, and onions, a nod to the classic pierogi filling. The dish is then baked to perfection, offering a delightful crunch with every bite.
Photos of Pierogi Stuffed Shells Recipe
The ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in most homes. However, you might need to purchase a few items such as instant mashed potatoes and french-fried onions. Instant mashed potatoes are a convenient alternative to making mashed potatoes from scratch. They are usually found in the dry goods aisle of your supermarket. French-fried onions, usually used for topping casseroles, can usually be found in the canned vegetable aisle.
Ingredients for Pierogi Stuffed Shells
Pasta shells: Pasta shells are a type of pasta that is large enough to stuff with fillings. They can be found in the pasta aisle of your supermarket.
Instant mashed potatoes: These are dehydrated mashed potatoes. Adding water or milk rehydrates them.
French-fried onions: These are onions that have been fried until crispy. They add a nice crunch to the dish.
Cheddar cheese: This cheese adds a creamy and salty flavor. It's used in many different types of dishes.
Bacon bits: These are small pieces of cooked bacon. They add a savory and smoky flavor to the dish.
Jalapeno pepper: This pepper adds a little bit of heat to the recipe. It can be adjusted according to taste.
Butter: Butter is used to cook the onions and also adds a rich flavor to the dish.
Onion: Onions are a basic cooking ingredient that gives the dish a bit of sweetness and flavor.
One reader, Alvin Joslin says:
This pierogi stuffed shells recipe is a game-changer! The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon bits inside the pasta shells is simply divine. The jalapeno adds a perfect kick, and the caramelized onions on top are the cherry on the cake. A must-try for all pierogi lovers!
Essential Techniques for Making Pierogi Stuffed Shells
How to prepare the pasta shells: Boil the pasta shells in lightly salted water until they are tender yet firm to the bite, then drain and arrange them in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
How to prepare the mashed potatoes: In a microwave-safe bowl, bring 2 cups of water to a boil in the microwave. Remove from the microwave and immediately add instant mashed potatoes, using a fork to moisten the potatoes. Cover and let stand for about 5 minutes.
How to stuff the pasta shells: Mix the french-fried onions, cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and jalapeno into the mashed potatoes. Stuff each pasta shell with a heaping teaspoon of the potato mixture.
How to prepare the butter and onions: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook and stir until translucent and softened, about 5 minutes.
How to bake the stuffed shells: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the stuffed shells in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F until golden, for about 45 minutes.
How To Make Pierogi Stuffed Shells
Prepare a filling meal for your family by making these pierogi stuffed shells made with spices, cheese, and pasta shells wrapped in one delicious dish.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 22pasta shells
- 2cupswater
- 1cupinstant mashed potatoes ,such as Idahoan® Baby Reds®
- 1cupFrench-fried onions
- 1cupshredded cheddar cheese
- 2tbspbacon bits
- 1jalapeno pepper,diced
- ¼cupbutter
- 1onion,chopped
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
-
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells in boiling water, stirring occasionally until tender yet firm to the bite for about 9 minutes. Drain and arrange at the bottom of the baking dish.
-
Measure 2 cups of water into a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high to bring water to a boil for 4 to 5 minutes.
-
Remove water from the microwave and immediately add instant mashed potatoes, using a fork to moisten potatoes. Cover and let stand for about 5 minutes.
-
Stir French-fried onions, cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and jalapeno into potatoes; mix well to combine. Stuff each pasta shell with a heaping teaspoon of the potato mixture.
-
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions; cook and stir until translucent and softened about 5 minutes.
-
Pour butter and onions over stuffed shells. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil.
-
Bake stuffed shells in the preheated oven until golden for about 45 minutes.
Nutrition
- Calories: 2001.06kcal
- Fat: 193.63g
- Saturated Fat: 121.01g
- Trans Fat: 7.71g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 50.16g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 8.19g
- Carbohydrates: 56.91g
- Fiber: 3.37g
- Sugar: 4.15g
- Protein: 16.54g
- Cholesterol: 509.78mg
- Sodium: 330.13mg
- Calcium: 215.61mg
- Potassium: 409.34mg
- Iron: 1.14mg
- Vitamin A: 1621.07µg
- Vitamin C: 6.28mg
Crucial Technique for Perfect Pierogi Stuffed Shells
When stuffing the pasta shells, it's important to let them cool slightly after boiling. This makes them easier to handle and reduces the risk of tearing. Also, ensure that the potato mixture is not too hot when stuffing the shells to avoid softening the pasta too much. For an even distribution of flavor, try to evenly distribute the onion, bacon bits, and jalapeno in each shell.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the mashed potato filling and cook the pasta shells ahead of time to streamline the process.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly chop the onions and jalapeno for the filling.
Assembly line: Set up an assembly line to stuff the pasta shells efficiently, making the process quicker and more organized.
Double batch: Consider making a double batch and freezing the extra stuffed shells for a convenient future meal.
Delegate: Enlist the help of family or friends to assist with the preparation, making the process more efficient and enjoyable.
Substitute Ingredients For Pierogi Stuffed Shells Recipe
pasta shells - Substitute with dumpling wrappers: Dumpling wrappers can be used as a substitute for pasta shells in this recipe, providing a similar texture and shape for the pierogi stuffed shells.
water - Substitute with vegetable or chicken broth: Using vegetable or chicken broth instead of water can add extra flavor to the dish and enhance the overall savory profile of the recipe.
instant mashed potatoes - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese can be used as a creamy and flavorful substitute for instant mashed potatoes, adding a rich and smooth texture to the filling.
french-fried onions - Substitute with caramelized onions: Caramelized onions can provide a similar sweet and savory flavor to the dish, adding depth and richness to the pierogi stuffed shells.
shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with gouda cheese: Gouda cheese can be used as a substitute for cheddar, offering a slightly nutty and creamy flavor that complements the other ingredients in the recipe.
bacon bits - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can add a smoky flavor similar to bacon, enhancing the overall depth of the dish while providing a vegetarian-friendly alternative.
jalapeno pepper - Substitute with green bell pepper: Green bell pepper can be used as a milder substitute for jalapeno, providing a similar crunch and texture without the spiciness.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter, adding a subtle fruity flavor to the dish while reducing the overall saturated fat content.
onion - Substitute with shallot: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onion, offering a milder and sweeter flavor that complements the other ingredients in the recipe.
Presentation Ideas for Pierogi Stuffed Shells
Elevate the plating: When presenting the pierogi stuffed shells, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Arrange the stuffed shells in a circular pattern on the plate, ensuring they are evenly spaced and garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Introduce a textural element to the dish by adding a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits on top of the stuffed shells. This will provide a delightful crunch that complements the creamy filling.
Highlight the flavors: Showcase the flavors of the pierogi stuffed shells by drizzling a rich and savory brown butter sauce over the top. This will add depth to the dish and enhance the overall taste experience.
Emphasize the aroma: Before serving, allow the tantalizing aroma of the pierogi stuffed shells to waft through the air, creating anticipation and excitement for the culinary experience that awaits.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the placement of each element on the plate, ensuring that every component is thoughtfully arranged to create a visually stunning presentation that reflects the craftsmanship and artistry of the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Stuffed Shells
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It can be used to make dough, grind nuts, and prepare various sauces and dips.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool used for combining ingredients, whisking, and stirring. It comes in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, and ceramic, and is used for preparing batters, dressings, and marinades.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Pierogi Stuffed Shells
- Allow the pierogi stuffed shells to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For short-term storage, place the cooled stuffed shells in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze the pierogi stuffed shells:
- Place the cooled shells in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze the shells until solid, about 2-3 hours.
- Once frozen, transfer the shells to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Frozen pierogi stuffed shells can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat frozen stuffed shells:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the frozen shells in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- If desired, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking to allow the tops to brown slightly.
- Alternatively, you can thaw the frozen pierogi stuffed shells overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
How To Reheat Leftover Pierogi Stuffed Shells
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pierogi stuffed shells in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the shells from drying out.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the pierogi stuffed shells in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the shells to become rubbery.
If you want to add a crispy texture to your reheated pierogi stuffed shells, you can use an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the shells in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
For a stovetop method, place the pierogi stuffed shells in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the pan and cover with a lid. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the bottom.
If you have leftover potato filling and onion topping, you can reheat them separately in the microwave or on the stovetop. Once heated, spoon the filling and topping over the reheated pierogi stuffed shells for an extra burst of flavor.
Interesting Trivia About Pierogi Stuffed Shells
Pierogi stuffed shells are a fusion of Italian and Polish cuisine, combining the classic Italian pasta shells with the traditional Polish pierogi filling. This unique dish showcases the versatility of pasta and the delicious flavors of mashed potatoes, cheese, and bacon, creating a delightful and comforting meal.
Is Making Pierogi Stuffed Shells at Home Cost-Effective?
This pierogi stuffed shells recipe offers a moderate cost-effectiveness for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like pasta shells, instant mashed potatoes, and cheddar cheese makes it budget-friendly. However, the addition of bacon bits and french-fried onions may slightly increase the overall cost. Considering the quantity and quality of the ingredients, this recipe receives a 7/10 rating for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a reasonable option for a budget-friendly meal.
Is This Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
This pierogi stuffed shells recipe is quite indulgent and not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe uses instant mashed potatoes, which are often high in sodium and may contain additives.
- French-fried onions and bacon bits add extra fat and sodium to the dish.
- Cheddar cheese contributes to the overall fat content, especially saturated fat.
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of butter, which is high in saturated fat.
- There is no mention of any vegetables or lean proteins that could balance out the meal.
While the jalapeno pepper does add a small amount of vitamin C, it's not enough to make this dish nutritionally balanced.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Use whole wheat pasta shells to increase the fiber content.
- Replace instant mashed potatoes with homemade mashed potatoes made from whole potatoes, which will reduce the sodium and additive content.
- Reduce the amount of cheese and butter used, or opt for lower-fat alternatives.
- Instead of french-fried onions and bacon bits, incorporate more vegetables into the potato mixture, such as sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of bacon bits to add protein without the extra saturated fat.
- Serve the stuffed shells with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal.
Editor's Opinion on Pierogi Stuffed Shells
The combination of pasta shells and mashed potato filling in this recipe is a unique and creative twist on traditional pierogi. The addition of cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and jalapeno adds a flavorful punch, while the caramelized onions bring a rich and savory element. The baking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a comforting and satisfying dish. However, the use of instant mashed potatoes may compromise the overall texture and flavor. Consider using homemade mashed potatoes for a more authentic and elevated experience. Overall, this recipe offers a fun and inventive take on a classic dish.
Enhance Your Pierogi Stuffed Shells Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Pierogi Stuffed Shells
Perfect Appetizer and Dessert Combinations
Why trust this Pierogi Stuffed Shells Recipe:
This recipe offers a unique twist on traditional pierogi, combining the comforting flavors of mashed potatoes and cheddar cheese with the delightful texture of pasta shells. The addition of french-fried onions and bacon bits provides a satisfying crunch, while the subtle heat from the jalapeno pepper adds a kick of flavor. The use of butter and onions infuses the dish with rich, savory notes. Trust in the fusion of these diverse ingredients to create a memorable and delicious dining experience.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
Pierogi Dough Recipe
Pierogi (Polish Dumplings) Recipe
Homemade Pierogi Recipe
Anise and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Vegetarian Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Polish Sausage and Pierogi Skillet Recipe
Jumbo Stuffed Shells Recipe
Buca Di Beppo Stuffed Shells Recipe
Stuffed Shells IV Recipe
Copycat Olive Garden Cannelloni Recipe
