Giant Stuffed Pasta Shells: A Delicious and Impressive Meal
Giant stuffed pasta shells, also known as conchiglioni, are a fun and impressive dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. These jumbo shells are incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with various fillings and sauces to create a unique and satisfying meal. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make perfect giant stuffed pasta shells, from selecting the best ingredients to mastering the cooking techniques. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful Italian-inspired creation!
## What are Giant Stuffed Pasta Shells?
Giant stuffed pasta shells are essentially large pasta shells that are filled with a savory mixture, typically consisting of cheese, meat, vegetables, and herbs. They are then baked in a sauce, usually tomato-based, until tender and bubbly. The shells act as individual vessels, holding a flavorful and satisfying filling that bursts with taste with every bite.
## Why You’ll Love This Recipe
* **Impressive Presentation:** Giant stuffed shells are visually appealing and make a statement on the dinner table. They are perfect for entertaining guests or making a regular weeknight meal feel a little more special.
* **Versatile Filling Options:** The possibilities for fillings are endless! You can customize the filling to suit your preferences and dietary needs. From classic ricotta and spinach to meat-filled variations, the choice is yours.
* **Easy to Prepare:** Despite their impressive appearance, giant stuffed shells are relatively easy to make. The process involves cooking the shells, preparing the filling, stuffing the shells, and baking them in sauce. With a little preparation, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in no time.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** You can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes them perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining.
* **Great for Leftovers:** Stuffed shells reheat well, making them ideal for leftovers. You can enjoy them for lunch or dinner the next day.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
* **Jumbo Pasta Shells (Conchiglioni):** Look for high-quality jumbo shells that are large enough to hold a generous amount of filling. Barilla and De Cecco are two popular brands.
* **Ricotta Cheese:** Ricotta cheese is the base of many traditional fillings. Use whole-milk ricotta for a richer flavor and creamier texture. Drain the ricotta well to prevent the filling from being too watery.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the filling. Grate it finely for even distribution.
* **Mozzarella Cheese:** Mozzarella cheese adds a melty, gooey element to the dish. Shredded mozzarella works best.
* **Egg:** An egg acts as a binder, holding the filling together.
* **Spinach:** Spinach adds nutrients and flavor to the filling. You can use fresh or frozen spinach. If using frozen, be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture.
* **Ground Meat (Optional):** You can add ground beef, ground turkey, or Italian sausage to the filling for a meatier dish. Brown the meat before adding it to the filling.
* **Onion and Garlic:** Onion and garlic add aromatic flavor to the filling.
* **Italian Seasoning:** Italian seasoning is a blend of herbs that adds classic Italian flavor to the dish.
* **Salt and Pepper:** Season the filling to taste with salt and pepper.
* **Tomato Sauce:** Use your favorite tomato sauce for baking the shells. You can use store-bought sauce or make your own.
* **Fresh Basil (Optional):** Fresh basil adds a pop of freshness and flavor to the finished dish.
## Equipment You’ll Need
* **Large Pot:** For cooking the pasta shells.
* **Colander:** For draining the pasta shells.
* **Large Bowl:** For mixing the filling.
* **Spoon or Spatula:** For mixing the filling and stuffing the shells.
* **Baking Dish:** A 9×13 inch baking dish is ideal for baking the shells.
## Step-by-Step Instructions
**1. Cook the Pasta Shells:**
* Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
* Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package directions, but slightly undercook them by a minute or two. They should be al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
* Drain the shells in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This will also prevent them from sticking together.
* Gently toss the shells with a little olive oil to prevent them from drying out.
**2. Prepare the Filling:**
* In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, egg, spinach, ground meat (if using), onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
* Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
**3. Stuff the Pasta Shells:**
* Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Spoon the filling into each pasta shell, using a spoon or your fingers. Be generous with the filling, as the shells can hold a lot.
* Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish that has been lightly coated with tomato sauce.
**4. Bake the Stuffed Shells:**
* Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure they are well covered.
* Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
* Bake for 20 minutes.
* Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through.
**5. Garnish and Serve:**
* Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
* Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.
* Serve hot and enjoy!
## Tips for Success
* **Don’t Overcook the Pasta:** Be sure to cook the pasta shells al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta will become mushy.
* **Drain the Ricotta Cheese Well:** Excess moisture in the ricotta cheese can make the filling watery. Drain the ricotta well by placing it in a cheesecloth-lined sieve for at least 30 minutes.
* **Don’t Overfill the Shells:** While it’s tempting to stuff the shells to the brim, overfilling them can cause the filling to spill out during baking. Leave a little space at the top of each shell.
* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of the dish. Use high-quality ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and tomato sauce for the best results.
* **Adjust the Seasoning to Taste:** Taste the filling before stuffing the shells and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add more salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, or garlic powder as needed.
* **Let the Stuffed Shells Cool Slightly Before Serving:** This will allow the filling to set up a bit, making it easier to serve.
## Variations and Customizations
* **Meat Lover’s:** Add ground beef, ground turkey, or Italian sausage to the filling. Brown the meat before adding it to the filling.
* **Vegetarian:** Omit the meat and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
* **Spinach and Artichoke:** Add chopped artichoke hearts to the filling for a delicious twist.
* **Pesto:** Stir a few tablespoons of pesto into the filling for added flavor.
* **Spicy:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat.
* **Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses in the filling, such as fontina, provolone, or asiago.
* **Sauce Variations:** Try using a different sauce, such as Alfredo sauce, pesto sauce, or a creamy tomato sauce.
## Serving Suggestions
Giant stuffed pasta shells are a complete meal on their own, but they can also be served with a side dish or two. Here are a few suggestions:
* **Garlic Bread:** Crispy garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to stuffed shells.
* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds freshness to the meal.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, are a healthy and flavorful side dish.
* **Soup:** A bowl of tomato soup or minestrone soup is a comforting addition to the meal.
## Make-Ahead Instructions
You can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Here’s how:
* Prepare the pasta shells and filling according to the recipe instructions.
* Stuff the shells and arrange them in a baking dish.
* Pour the tomato sauce over the shells.
* Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
* Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
* When you’re ready to bake, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Remove the plastic wrap or aluminum foil and bake according to the recipe instructions, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
## Storage Instructions
Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Here’s how:
* Let the stuffed shells cool completely.
* Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
## Reheating Instructions
To reheat leftover stuffed shells, you can use the oven or the microwave. Here’s how:
* **Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
* Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
* Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
* **Microwave:** Place the stuffed shells on a microwave-safe plate.
* Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
## Recipe Card
**Giant Stuffed Pasta Shells**
A delicious and impressive meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
**Prep Time:** 30 minutes
**Cook Time:** 35 minutes
**Total Time:** 1 hour 5 minutes
**Servings:** 6-8
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound jumbo pasta shells (conchiglioni)
* 15 ounces ricotta cheese, drained
* 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
* 1/2 pound ground beef, ground turkey, or Italian sausage (optional)
* 1/2 cup chopped onion
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 24 ounces tomato sauce
* Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions, until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, egg, spinach, ground meat (if using), onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Spoon filling into each pasta shell. Arrange stuffed shells in a baking dish coated with tomato sauce.
5. Pour remaining tomato sauce over the shells. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired. Serve hot.
## Conclusion
Giant stuffed pasta shells are a delightful and impressive dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With their versatile filling options and easy preparation, they are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. So, gather your ingredients, follow our step-by-step instructions, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal! Experiment with different fillings and sauces to create your own unique version of this classic Italian dish. Bon appétit!