Cheese-Stuffed Shells: What's The Best Filling?

Stuffed shells are a popular dish that can be filled with a variety of cheeses and other ingredients. While there are many variations, a classic stuffed shell recipe typically includes a combination of ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses. These cheeses are mixed together and stuffed into jumbo pasta shells, which are then baked in the oven and served with marinara sauce.

Ricotta, Parmesan, and Mozzarella

Ricotta is an essential ingredient in stuffed shells, providing a creamy texture and a mild, milky flavour. It is a classic ingredient in Italian dishes such as lasagna and manicotti, and its smooth consistency makes it perfect for binding the other ingredients together.

Mozzarella is another popular choice, adding a stretchy, stringy texture and a salty, savoury taste. It melts beautifully, creating an appealing, golden brown topping when baked.

Parmesan is the third cheese that is often used in stuffed shells. It has a strong, nutty flavour and a dry, crumbly texture. Parmesan adds a sharp tanginess to the dish and is often sprinkled on top of the stuffed shells before baking to create a crispy, golden topping.

These three cheeses work harmoniously together, creating a well-rounded flavour profile. The creamy ricotta and stretchy mozzarella provide a smooth, indulgent texture, while the sharper parmesan adds depth and complexity.

While these three cheeses are the most traditional combination, some variations do exist. For example, some recipes may substitute parmesan with pecorino, a similar Italian cheese with a slightly softer texture and a milder flavour. Additionally, other cheeses such as cream cheese, cottage cheese, provolone, fontina, asiago, or romano can be added to create unique flavour profiles and textural differences.

The versatility of stuffed shells allows home cooks to experiment with different combinations of cheeses, creating their own signature versions of this classic dish.

Cream Cheese

When making the filling, the cream cheese should be slightly softened so that it is easy to stir. It can be combined with other cheeses, egg, garlic, parsley, spices, and salt. The filling is then stuffed into the pasta shells, which are placed in a baking dish and covered with a layer of sauce.

Stuffed shells can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days before baking. They can also be frozen before or after baking.

The addition of cream cheese to the filling gives the dish a smooth and creamy texture, enhancing the overall taste and making it a true comfort food.

Spinach and Lemon Zest

Ingredients

• Jumbo pasta shells
• Fresh spinach
• Lemon zest
• Ricotta cheese
• Grated pecorino or parmesan cheese
• Garlic
• Dried oregano
• Red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper
• Marinara sauce
• Olive oil

Method

• Steam the spinach until tender and vibrant green. Place in a strainer and squeeze out the excess moisture. Roughly chop the spinach.
• In a medium bowl, combine the spinach, ricotta, pecorino or parmesan, garlic, oregano, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
• Cook the pasta shells until just shy of al dente. Drain and drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Stuff each shell with the spinach and cheese mixture.
• Spread marinara sauce in a baking dish. Nestle the stuffed shells into the sauce, cover with foil, and bake at 425°F for 20 minutes.
• Garnish with additional pecorino or parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.

Tips

• For a stronger lemon flavour, add more lemon zest to the filling or sprinkle some on top before serving.
• You can make this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 4 hours before baking.
• If you want to freeze this dish, assemble the shells and cover them tightly before placing in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, bake the shells from frozen, adding an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time.

Cottage Cheese

When preparing cottage cheese stuffed shells, it is important to grate the cheese yourself instead of using pre-grated cheese for the best flavour. Additionally, the pasta shells should be slightly undercooked to prevent them from becoming mushy after baking.

This versatile and tasty dish is a great option for those looking for a comforting and nutritious meal that can be tailored to their preferences.

Eggs

While eggs are a typical ingredient, they can be omitted or substituted. One recipe suggests that the filling will still work without eggs, but it may be runnier. Other substitutes for eggs include breadcrumbs, mashed potato or potato flakes, cornstarch, or ground oats.

Frequently asked questions