Name: Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 box jumbo pasta shells; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 2 cups chopped spinach; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 eggs; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

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Introduction

Christmas is a time for joy, celebration, and of course, delicious food that brings loved ones together. In this article, we will explore a delightful recipe for Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells that is sure to become a holiday favorite. The warmth and comfort of this dish, combined with the festive flavors, make it a perfect addition to your Christmas menu.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a harmonious blend of rich flavors and textures that will leave everyone craving more. The best part is that it is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy holiday gatherings. Additionally, this dish can be customized to suit various dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone around the table can enjoy it.

Imagine indulging in tender pasta shells filled with a creamy and savory filling, topped with a luscious marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese – a symphony of flavors that will truly elevate your Christmas dinner experience.

Whether you are hosting a large family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, this recipe is a surefire way to impress your guests and create lasting holiday memories.

Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will delight your taste buds and warm your heart this Christmas season.

Ingredients

To create this delectable Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells dish, you will need the following ingredients:

– Jumbo pasta shells: 1 box

– Ricotta cheese: 2 cups

– Spinach, chopped: 2 cups

– Mozzarella cheese, shredded: 2 cups

– Parmesan cheese, grated: 1 cup

– Eggs: 2

– Garlic, minced: 3 cloves

– Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to customize the filling by adding ingredients such as cooked ground meat, mushrooms, or bell peppers to suit your taste preferences.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish by spreading a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.

4. Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the cheese and spinach mixture, then place them in the baking dish.

5. Once all the shells are filled and arranged in the dish, top them with the remaining marinara sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.

6. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to achieve a golden brown crust on top.

8. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

Expert Tips for Success

For the best results, be sure to generously season the filling mixture with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of the dish. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle aromatic note.

To save time, you can prepare the filling and cook the pasta shells in advance, assembling the dish just before baking.

If you prefer a lighter version of this recipe, you can use low-fat ricotta cheese and part-skim mozzarella cheese without compromising on taste.

To prevent the pasta shells from sticking together, drizzle a little olive oil over them after cooking and draining them.

Variations and Substitutions

There are endless possibilities for customizing this Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells recipe to suit your preferences. Here are a few creative variations to try:

– Add cooked ground sausage or turkey for a meaty twist

– Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a burst of flavor

– Substitute the spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different green element

– Use a blend of different cheeses such as fontina, provolone, or asiago for a unique taste profile

Serving Suggestions

To serve this delectable dish, plate the stuffed shells on a festive platter and garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color. Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette and some garlic bread or dinner rolls on the side.

For a complete Christmas dinner experience, consider serving this recipe alongside classic holiday favorites such as roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and gingerbread cookies for dessert.

Don’t forget to pour a glass of your favorite wine or sparkling cider to toast to the joyous occasion and savor every bite of this delicious meal.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake them. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly if baking from cold.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?

A: Absolutely! This dish freezes well, so you can enjoy the leftovers at a later time. Simply store the cooled leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

A: While jumbo pasta shells work best for this recipe, you can certainly experiment with other pasta shapes such as manicotti or cannelloni if desired. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells or substitute with zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.

Final Thoughts

As you embark on your culinary journey to create this Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells recipe, remember that the true essence of the holiday season lies in sharing delicious meals with the ones you love. This dish encapsulates the spirit of Christmas – comforting, flavorful, and made with love.

So, gather your family and friends around the table, savor each bite of these decadent stuffed shells, and revel in the joy of the festive season. May this recipe bring warmth, happiness, and togetherness to your Christmas celebration. Cheers to good food and even better company!