The Key To Making Amazing Stuffed Shells

ricotta cheese

🥗Healthier: cottage cheese

💰Cheaper: cream cheese

Cottage cheese is lower in fat and calories, while cream cheese is often less expensive.

mozzarella cheese

🥗Healthier: part-skim mozzarella

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Part-skim mozzarella has fewer calories, while processed cheese can be more budget-friendly.

In boiling salted water (2 tablespoons kosher salt per gallon water) add a drop of olive oil and cook pasta shells until very al dente. Stir frequently to avoid sticking.

Strain the shells and place on clean kitchen towels. Allow shells to cool before stuffing.

Mix cheese filling and place in a pastry or plastic bag. Cut off the tip of bag and squeeze the filling into each shell.

Lay a 1/2" thick layer of meat sauce into a large non-stick baking dish. Place all of the stuffed shells into the meat sauce lined baking dish.

Place a layer of sauce on top of the shells but do not completely cover the shells. Sprinkle the remaining half of mozzarella cheese on top of the shells.

Cover the stuffed shells with a layer of parchment paper then foil to avoid sticking or alternatively lightly oil the foil before placing on top. Bake the shells at 400°F for 30 minutes, then removing covering and bake for 15 minutes more until bubbly and crispy.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens