Indulge in the comforting embrace of Italian cuisine with our mouthwatering "Stuffed Shells with Tomato Sausage Sauce." This delightful dish features jumbo pasta shells generously filled with a rich blend of creamy cheeses and savory Italian sausage, all smothered in a luscious marinara sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is not just a meal—it's an experience that will leave your taste buds dancing! Ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that looks as good as it tastes? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure that promises to be a hit at your dinner table!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Cook jumbo pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain shells and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, egg, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Add the cooked and crumbled Italian sausage to the cheese mixture, stirring to distribute evenly throughout the filling.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer.
- Carefully stuff each pasta shell with the cheese and sausage mixture, filling them generously but not overpacking.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of the marinara sauce in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the shells.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and shells are heated through.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh chopped basil leaves before serving. Enjoy hot.
Tips
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the jumbo pasta shells just until they are al dente. This prevents them from becoming too soft during baking and helps maintain their shape.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality ricotta and marinara sauce for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients can elevate the dish significantly.
- Mix It Up: Feel free to customize the filling! Add spinach, mushrooms, or other vegetables to the cheese mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Layering is Key: When assembling, ensure that the marinara sauce covers the stuffed shells completely to prevent them from drying out while baking.
- Let It Rest: Allow the stuffed shells to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together and makes serving easier.
- Garnish for Flair: Don’t skip the fresh basil garnish! It adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor that enhances the overall dish.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the fridge.Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every bite of this delicious dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 110mg
