Randy Chandler
Stuffed shells are a classic Italian dish that is both hearty and elegant. While there are many variations, the traditional recipe calls for a combination of mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan cheeses, mixed with seasonings and an egg, and stuffed into jumbo pasta shells. The shells are then baked in a marinara or meat sauce and topped with more cheese. This dish is easy to make, perfect for feeding a crowd, and can be made ahead of time, making it a popular choice for holidays, dinners, and get-togethers. The combination of chewy pasta, creamy ricotta filling, and tangy sauce is comforting and impressive, and the addition of mozzarella cheese takes it to the next level in terms of taste and texture.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Cheese | Mozzarella, Ricotta, Parmesan |
| Additional Ingredients | Marinara Sauce, Meat Sauce, Italian Seasoning, Eggs, Parsley, Basil, Salt, Pepper, Olive Oil, Ground Beef, Onion, Garlic, Spinach, Lemon Zest, Oregano, Red Pepper Flakes, Pecorino Cheese |
| Baking Instructions | Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. |
| Calories | 414kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 26g |
| Fat | 21g |
| Saturated Fat | 13g |
| Cholesterol | 101mg |
| Sodium | 1298mg |
| Potassium | 605mg |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 7g |
| Vitamin A | 1270IU |
| Vitamin C | 9mg |
| Calcium | 462mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
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What You'll Learn
- Mozzarella, ricotta and parmesan are the most common cheeses used in stuffed shells
- Undercook shells by 1-2 minutes as they will continue cooking in the oven
- Adding an egg to the cheese mixture helps bind the cheeses together
- Stuffed shells are a classic Italian recipe commonly served during holidays in the US
- To save calories, use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella
Mozzarella, ricotta and parmesan are the most common cheeses used in stuffed shells
Mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan are the most common cheeses used in stuffed shells. These three cheeses are a classic combination for this dish. The mozzarella and parmesan are often used to top the shells before baking, while the ricotta and parmesan are mixed with the remaining mozzarella to create the filling. This filling is then stuffed into the shells, which are usually par-cooked before being filled.
The creamy ricotta is often mixed with ingredients like eggs, basil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Some recipes also add spinach, lemon zest, and other cheeses to the ricotta mixture. The shells are then stuffed with this mixture, topped with more mozzarella and parmesan, and baked until golden and bubbly.
Mozzarella is a key ingredient in the classic lasagna, and stuffed shells are a twist on this traditional dish. The mozzarella, along with ricotta and parmesan, provides a triple dose of cheese, making this dish extra cheesy and comforting. The combination of these three cheeses creates a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for feeding a crowd or serving at a dinner party.
While mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan are the most common cheeses used, some recipes may include other cheeses as well. For example, pecorino Romano, mascarpone, and cottage cheese have been suggested as alternatives or additions to the classic trio. The versatility of the dish allows for customization to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
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Undercook shells by 1-2 minutes as they will continue cooking in the oven
When making stuffed shells, it is important to undercook your pasta by 1-2 minutes as they will continue cooking in the oven. This ensures that your shells don't become overcooked and mushy. The ideal texture for the shells before they go into the oven is slightly firmer than al dente. This is because the shells will be baked in the oven for an extended period, usually around 30 minutes, and overcooked pasta can ruin a dish.
To achieve this, boil the shell pasta until it is just shy of al dente. The cooking time will depend on the type of pasta you are using, but it is usually around 8-10 minutes. Once the pasta is cooked, it is important to chill it immediately in cold water to stop the cooking process. You can then drain the shells and set them aside until you are ready to fill them.
The filling for stuffed shells typically includes a combination of cheeses, such as ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, along with eggs, seasonings, and sometimes meat or vegetables. This filling is then spooned or piped into the partially cooked shells. The shells are then placed in a baking dish, covered with foil, and baked in the oven.
By undercooking the shells by 1-2 minutes before filling and baking them, you can ensure that your stuffed shells have a perfect texture and are not overcooked. This is a crucial step in creating a delicious and elegant dish that your family and guests will love.
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Adding an egg to the cheese mixture helps bind the cheeses together
Stuffed shells are a classic Italian dish that can be made with a variety of cheeses, including mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan. While the specific ingredients and methods may vary, one key step is adding an egg to the cheese mixture, which serves a vital purpose in the recipe.
The addition of an egg to the cheese mixture in stuffed shells plays a crucial role in binding the cheeses together. When multiple types of cheese are combined, as in the case of stuffed shells, they can sometimes separate or become unevenly distributed. The egg acts as a binding agent, helping to hold the different cheeses together in a cohesive blend. This ensures that the filling remains uniform and consistent throughout the dish.
Moreover, the egg also contributes to the overall texture and structure of the cheese mixture. It adds moisture and helps to create a creamy, smooth consistency. This is especially important when using cheeses that tend to be drier or more crumbly, such as ricotta or parmesan. The egg helps to soften the mixture, making it easier to work with and ensuring a pleasant mouthfeel when consumed.
In terms of preparation, the egg is typically beaten or whisked before being incorporated into the cheese mixture. This step is important as it ensures that the egg is evenly distributed throughout the mixture, maximizing its binding properties. Once combined with the cheeses and other ingredients, such as herbs and seasonings, the egg helps to create a homogeneous filling that is easier to stuff into the pasta shells.
While some recipes may suggest that the egg can be optional, it is highly recommended to include it. The egg not only improves the texture and consistency of the filling but also helps to prevent the cheeses from separating during baking. This ensures that the final dish holds together well and maintains its shape, contributing to a more aesthetically pleasing and appetizing presentation.
In conclusion, adding an egg to the cheese mixture in stuffed shells is a crucial step that should not be overlooked. It enhances the overall texture, structure, and cohesion of the filling, ensuring a delicious and visually appealing final product. By following this simple yet important step, home cooks can elevate their stuffed shells to a restaurant-worthy level, impressing family and friends alike.
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Stuffed shells are a classic Italian recipe commonly served during holidays in the US
The process of making stuffed shells begins with boiling the pasta shells until they are just shy of al dente. The filling is then prepared by mixing together the cheeses, along with seasonings, and sometimes an egg, to help bind the mixture. The cooked shells are then stuffed with this cheese mixture, placed in a baking dish, and covered with the chosen sauce. The shells are then baked in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Some variations of the recipe include adding meat, such as ground beef or Italian sausage, to the filling, or using a combination of meat and cheese. Others may include vegetables such as spinach, or lemon zest, to add extra flavour to the dish. The type of sauce used can also vary, with options such as marinara, bechamel, alfredo, or a traditional Pomodoro sauce.
Stuffed shells are a popular dish due to their impressive appearance and elegant flavour, while still being relatively easy to prepare. They are a common choice for feeding a crowd or bringing to a potluck, as they can be made ahead of time and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. They are also versatile, as they can be made with different types of cheese and sauces to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Overall, stuffed shells are a classic and comforting Italian dish that has become a holiday tradition for many families in the US. With their combination of cheesy goodness and chewy pasta, they are sure to satisfy any craving and leave your guests wanting more.
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To save calories, use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella
Stuffed shells are a classic Italian dish that can be made with a variety of cheeses, including mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan. While this dish is typically made with whole milk ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, using part-skim ricotta and mozzarella is a great way to reduce the calorie content without sacrificing flavor.
The classic recipe for stuffed shells consists of pre-cooked pasta shells stuffed with cheese or meat and baked with a red or white sauce. The cheese filling typically includes a combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, with some recipes adding other types of cheese as well. This filling is then stuffed into the pre-cooked pasta shells, which are then baked in the oven with a sauce.
When making stuffed shells with part-skim ricotta and mozzarella, it is important to note that the texture and taste may be slightly different from the traditional whole milk version. Part-skim cheeses tend to have a lower fat content, which can affect the creaminess and richness of the dish. However, using part-skim cheeses can significantly reduce the calorie content of the dish without sacrificing too much flavor.
To ensure the best results when using part-skim ricotta and mozzarella in stuffed shells, it is recommended to grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded bags of cheese. Pre-grated cheeses often contain anti-caking agents and preservatives, which can affect the melting and texture of the cheese. By grating your own cheese, you can ensure a smoother, more even melt and a more natural texture.
Additionally, when using part-skim cheeses, it is important to properly combine them with the other ingredients in the filling. This may involve adjusting the proportions of the cheeses or adding extra seasonings to enhance the flavor. Properly combining the ingredients will help ensure that the filling is cohesive and flavorful, even with reduced-fat cheeses.
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Frequently asked questions
Stuffed shells are usually made with a combination of mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan. However, you can also use pecorino Romano, mascarpone, or cottage cheese.
This depends on the recipe you are following. Some recipes call for 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, while others use 1 1/2 cups. You may also use small diced mozzarella or grated mozzarella.
It is not recommended to use pre-shredded mozzarella cheese as it tends to be coated with anti-caking agents and preservatives, which can affect the melting of the cheese. Grating your own mozzarella cheese is the best option.
Besides mozzarella, you can add meat, vegetables, eggs, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sauce. For the sauce, you can use marinara, meat sauce, bechamel, alfredo, or Bolognese.
