Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe is just what you need! This delightful pasta dish brings together creamy ricotta, vibrant spinach, and the perfect blend of herbs. It’s not only a fantastic way to celebrate the holiday season but also makes for an easy weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for family gatherings. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll quickly become a go-to recipe in your home!

What I love most about these stuffed shells is how they can fit any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a busy night or hosting friends and family, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these cheesy, flavorful shells.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the shells ahead of time and bake them just before serving. Perfect for busy days!
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with spinach and ricotta, it’s a wholesome choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
• Versatile: You can customize the filling to suit your tastes—there’s something for everyone!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make these delicious stuffed shells. You likely have many of these items in your pantry already!

For the Shells

• 18 to 20 jumbo pasta shells
• Extra-virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
• 5 ounces fresh spinach
• 2 cups ricotta cheese (16 ounces)
• 1/4 cup grated pecorino cheese (and extra for sprinkling)
• 2 grated garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 3/4 teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for pasta water)
• Freshly ground black pepper

For Serving

• 2 cups marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add protein: Mix in cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms for an added twist.
• Change the greens: Swap out spinach for kale or Swiss chard if you prefer.
• Go vegan: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and skip the eggs for a plant-based version.
• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for those who like it hot!

How to Make Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling away, gently add your jumbo pasta shells. Cooking them al dente is important because they will continue to cook in the oven later. This ensures they don’t become mushy!

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the pasta cooks, heat a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the garlic until fragrant—this step enhances its flavor beautifully! Then add in your fresh spinach until wilted. Combine this mixture with ricotta, pecorino cheese, oregano, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, sea salt, and black pepper in a bowl.

Step 3: Assemble the Shells

Once your pasta has cooled slightly, it’s time to fill those lovely shells! Take each shell and stuff it generously with your cheesy filling. Place them snugly in a baking dish with marinara sauce at the bottom to keep them moist while baking.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

Drizzle a little extra marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with additional pecorino cheese before popping it into a preheated oven. Baking allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully! After about 30 minutes, you’ll have bubbling, golden stuffed shells ready to be garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe with loved ones! It’s sure to bring warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations.

Pro Tips for Making Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe

These stuffed shells are not only delicious but also a great way to bring your family together during the festive season! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Prep Ahead: Prepare the filling and stuff the shells a day in advance. This saves time and allows the flavors to meld beautifully before baking.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente. This ensures your shells hold their shape when baking and don’t become mushy.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality cheeses can elevate the flavor of your stuffed shells, making them more vibrant and tasty.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your filling before stuffing the shells. If you prefer a bit more zing, feel free to add more lemon zest or red pepper flakes according to your taste!
• Cover with Sauce: Ensure you generously cover your stuffed shells with marinara sauce before baking. This keeps them moist and enhances their flavor while cooking.

How to Serve Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe

Presentation is key when it comes to holiday meals! Serving these stuffed shells beautifully will make them even more enjoyable for your guests. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish visually and flavor-wise.
• Extra Grated Pecorino: A light dusting of grated cheese on top right before serving adds richness and a little extra indulgence.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty garlic bread complements the cheesy goodness of stuffed shells perfectly, making it a classic pairing that everyone loves.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the stuffed shells, providing a nice contrast in flavors and textures.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots can add color and sweetness to your meal while providing healthy options for your guests.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is an easy side that brings nutrition and crunch, plus it’s quick to prepare alongside your main dish.

I hope these tips and serving suggestions inspire you to create a festive feast that everyone will love! Enjoy making this Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the shells ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious creations.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Assemble the stuffed shells without baking them.
• Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Remember to label with a date!

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes for a bubbly top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I make this Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer, ready to bake whenever you’re set for dinner.

What should I serve with my Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe?

These stuffed shells pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some warm garlic bread. A sprinkle of extra pecorino cheese on top never hurts either!

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite cheeses such as mozzarella or goat cheese, keeping in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly.

How do I ensure my pasta shells don’t stick together?

To prevent sticking, make sure to cook the pasta al dente, and toss them gently in olive oil after draining. This will keep them separate while you fill them!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe! It’s not just a meal; it’s a cozy gathering around the table that brings warmth and happiness during the holiday season. Enjoy crafting these delightful shells, and don’t forget to share your experience—I would love to hear how they turned out!