Irresistible Delicious Sausage Stuffed Shells Recipe

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Delicious Sausage Stuffed Shells are the kind of dish that makes your taste buds dance like they just won the lottery. Picture this: a buttery, cheesy embrace enveloping savory sausage, while plump pasta shells cradle it all like they’re holding onto a delicious secret. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, drawing in hungry souls like moths to a flame. It’s warm, it’s hearty, and it’s perfect for those cozy nights when you want to feel wrapped in comfort food.

Now, let me take you down memory lane. I remember the first time I attempted to make these stuffed shells; let’s just say my kitchen turned into a scene from a cooking show gone wrong. Sauce splattered everywhere—who knew a simple dish could turn into an abstract art project? But as I pulled those glorious shells out of the oven, with bubbling cheese and aromatic herbs, I knew I had found my culinary soulmate. garlic herb roasted veggies Whether it’s a family gathering or just a regular Tuesday night, Delicious Sausage Stuffed Shells have become my go-to dish for whipping up joy in the kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This easy recipe for Delicious Sausage Stuffed Shells requires minimal prep time and yields maximum flavor satisfaction.
  • You can adjust the spice level based on your taste preferences, making it family-friendly.
  • Visually appealing with vibrant colors and textures, it’s sure to impress at any dinner party.
  • Perfect as leftovers, these shells taste even better the next day!

Ingredients for Delicious Sausage Stuffed Shells

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Jumbo Pasta Shells: These large shells are perfect for stuffing and hold up well during baking.
  • Sausage: Use Italian sausage for that robust flavor; feel free to choose mild or spicy based on your preference.
  • Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness; opt for whole milk ricotta for the best texture.
  • Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: A must-have for that melty goodness on top; don’t skimp here!
  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan enhances flavor; it also gives your dish that gourmet touch.
  • Fresh Parsley: Use chopped parsley for garnish; it adds a pop of color and freshness to each serving.

For the Sauce:

  • Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce; it will tie everything together beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Delicious Sausage Stuffed Shells

How to Make Delicious Sausage Stuffed Shells

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab your trusty baking dish and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, add your sausage. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and cooked through. Once done, drain excess fat and transfer sausage into a mixing bowl.

Step 4: Mix It All Together

To your bowl of sausage, add ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Stuff Those Shells

Carefully stuff each pasta shell with about two tablespoons of your delicious filling mixture. Place them seam side up in the prepared baking dish.

Step 6: Add Sauce & Bake

Pour marinara sauce evenly over stuffed shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil and bake for about 25 minutes until bubbly and heated through. Remove foil during the last five minutes for that golden finish!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional sauce if desired for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

You Must Know

  • Delicious sausage stuffed shells are not just a meal; they are a culinary adventure!
  • This dish is a savory masterpiece that can bring everyone together around the dinner table.
  • With its hearty filling and gooey cheese, it’s bound to impress even the pickiest eaters.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling your pasta shells while browning the sausage in a skillet. Once the sausage is cooked, mix in your favorite ricotta and seasonings. Assemble everything in a baking dish, top with marinara sauce, and sprinkle with cheese before baking to golden perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Throw in some sautéed spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients. You can also experiment with different types of cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicy twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover delicious sausage stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. For best results, cover with foil to prevent drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up during baking.
  • Always taste your filling; seasoning is key!
  • Finally, let the dish sit for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.

I once made delicious sausage stuffed shells for a family gathering, and they disappeared faster than you could say “cheesy goodness!” Everyone wanted seconds, and I realized I should have made double—next time, I definitely will!

FAQs :

What are Delicious Sausage Stuffed Shells?

Delicious sausage stuffed shells are large pasta shells filled with a savory mixture of Italian sausage, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and herbs. This dish is baked until bubbly and golden, making it a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. The combination of flavors and textures in these stuffed shells creates a satisfying experience for your taste buds. You can customize the filling by adding vegetables or using different types of cheese, making it versatile for various dietary preferences.

How do I make the filling for Delicious Sausage Stuffed Shells?

To make the filling for delicious sausage stuffed shells, start by browning Italian sausage in a skillet. Once cooked, drain excess fat and let it cool slightly. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage with ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and salt. savory garlic chicken Mix until well combined. This flavorful filling adds richness to the pasta shells and ensures every bite is packed with deliciousness. For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe.

Can I prepare Delicious Sausage Stuffed Shells in advance?

Yes, you can prepare delicious sausage stuffed shells in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking stage and assemble the dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them before baking; just ensure they are well-wrapped. When ready to eat, bake from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking as directed. For more inspiration, check out this garlic shrimp recipe recipe.

What should I serve with Delicious Sausage Stuffed Shells?

Delicious sausage stuffed shells pair wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread to balance the richness of the dish. A light arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette adds freshness to your meal. You can also serve steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for added nutrition. These sides enhance your dining experience and create a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy.

Conclusion for Delicious Sausage Stuffed Shells :

In summary, delicious sausage stuffed shells offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that appeal to both kids and adults alike. With an easy-to-follow recipe that allows for customization, you can create a dish that suits your family’s tastes perfectly. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or prepared in advance, these stuffed shells make an excellent addition to any dinner table. Enjoy this hearty meal as a comforting option any night of the week!

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Delicious Sausage Stuffed Shells


  • Author: Hannah
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Description

Delicious Sausage Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. These jumbo pasta shells are generously filled with a savory mixture of Italian sausage and creamy ricotta cheese, then topped with gooey mozzarella and rich marinara sauce. This easy-to-follow recipe yields a dish that is bursting with flavor in every cheesy bite, sure to bring everyone together around the table.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it apart until cooked through. Drain excess fat.
  4. In a bowl, mix the cooked sausage with ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  5. Stuff each shell with about two tablespoons of the filling and place them seam-side up in the baking dish.
  6. Spread marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil for the last 5 minutes until golden.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (approximately 290g)
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: - For lighter options, substitute ground turkey or chicken for sausage. - Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Tags:

baked pasta / cheesy pasta / comfort food / cozy dinner / hearty meal / Italian cuisine / sausage recipe / stuffed shells

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