Stuffed Shells: An easy way to make homemade stuffed pasta
Stuffed pasta is a large family of pasta that includes the most well-known ravioli and tortellini, but not only! We’ve already covered the different shapes of stuffed pasta, but did you know you can also stuff shell pasta? Not the ones you find in the sea, no, simply pasta in the shape of shells!
Shells pasta are not actually meant to be stuffed, but that doesn’t mean they cant! They make preparing homemade stuffed pasta much easier, since you don’t have to make the dough.
Be ready to become addicted, those shells can be cooked in so many different ways!
What are stuffed shells?
Stuffed shells are, as their name says, a type of dry pasta in the shape of a shell. They are made with conchiglioni pasta. Their ridges are close together and they can be stuffed with a variety of fillings, the most common ones being a mix of meat, cheese, and veggies.
Unlike typical stuffed-pasta like ravioli or tortellini, shells are not closed when stuffed: they act as “pockets” for all kinds of fillings. This means you will need to cook the pasta before stuffing it and then finish it up in a frying pan or in the oven to ensure that your filling stays in place.
Once done you’ll be able to enjoy the full flavor of the filling of your choosing surrounded by a soft layer of al dente pasta. All in one bite!
Whether you like them plain, topped with cheese, or completely smothered in sauce, there are endless possibilities when it comes to stuffing pasta shells.
Stuffed shells are the easiest way to make homemade pasta
We know that making your own pasta can take time, but mamma mia the taste is so different! We can’t stress enough how great it is to make your pasta from scratch.
Whether you are using a simple traditional recipe or you’re adding your own special ingredients, there is nothing quite like the flavor and texture of fresh pasta.
That being said, we completely understand that many people just don’t have time to make their own pasta. That’s where pasta shells come in, allowing you to focus on the filling while the pasta cooks according to package instructions. That is, approximately 10 minutes.
Pasta shells are great for last minute comfort food whims!
Are stuffed shells for everybody?
Definitely! It all comes down to the filling.
If you have a hearty appetite, meat stuffed shells are definitely for you! They are perfect for a satisfying pasta dinner, with plenty of sauce and meaty filling to go around.
However, if you are looking for something lighter and more refined, we recommend trying stuffed vegetable shells. And for those of you that are gluten intolerant, some gluten free options can be found in the supermarket!
Whether you are a cheese lover, seafood addict or a vegan foodie, there is always a stuffed shells recipe for you! The key to making great stuffed shells is in the filling.
Our top 3 stuffed shells recipes
We could not let you go without sharing with you our favourite stuffed shells recipes. Our number one is spinach and ricotta shells. It is the perfect recipe if you are in a hurry! You can enjoy the taste of Italy in less than 1-hour meal prep and the vegetarians will love it!
Are you searching for some comfort food? We definitely have what you need with our deep fried mac and cheese stuffed shells recipe. The mix of cheddar, cream, and Parmesan cheese will fill you up after a long winter day spent in the cold.
The Thanksgiving stuffed shells recipe is for the ones who love the holiday vibe and taste. It is a tasty mix of American and Italian cuisine. And it is an alternative to pimp your Thanksgiving leftovers.
For all the pasta lovers…
For all the pasta connoisseurs out there, stuffed shells are definitely a must try! You will have a lot of fun trying out different fillings and sauces. And you can save some of it in the freezeer to satisfy your stuffed shells addiction whenever please.
