Cheesy Veggie Stuffed Shells
Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes
Cheesy Veggie Stuffed Shells are a delightful and hearty dish, perfect for a comforting family meal. Stuffed with a creamy cheese and vegetable filling, these shells are sure to please everyone at the table.
These Cheesy Veggie Stuffed Shells are not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in some vegetables into your meal. With a rich mixture of cheeses and fresh veggies, they offer a creamy and satisfying bite that you'll love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A creamy, cheesy filling that bursts with flavor
- Packed with fresh vegetables for a nutritious twist
- Perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner
A Comforting Family Favorite
Cheesy Veggie Stuffed Shells are more than just a meal; they're a warm embrace on a plate. This dish is ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home, delivering both comfort and satisfaction. The combination of creamy cheeses and fresh vegetables creates a rich flavor profile that appeals to both children and adults alike.
Not only are they delicious, but they also provide an excellent opportunity to sneak in some extra vegetables, making them a great choice for those trying to eat healthier. With each bite, you get a delightful mix of textures and flavors that makes every forkful exciting.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Cheesy Veggie Stuffed Shells are incredibly versatile and can be served on various occasions. Whether you're hosting a family dinner, preparing a meal for friends, or simply looking for a comforting weeknight dish, these stuffed shells fit the bill. They're easy to make in large batches, making them perfect for potlucks or meal prep.
Additionally, you can customize the filling to suit your family's tastes. Swap out the spinach for kale, or add in some mushrooms or other seasonal vegetables. This adaptability means you can enjoy this dish throughout the year, no matter the season.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the best things about Cheesy Veggie Stuffed Shells is their meal prep potential. You can prepare the filling and stuff the shells ahead of time, then simply bake them when you're ready to eat. This makes it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or when you're planning meals for the week.
Simply store the assembled shells in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze them for longer storage. When you're ready to enjoy them, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if frozen. This convenience ensures you always have a satisfying meal on hand.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Shells
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup zucchini, grated
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Feel free to customize the veggies based on your preference!
Instructions
Prepare the Pasta
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Filling
In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, diced bell pepper, grated zucchini, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Stuff the Shells
Fill each cooked pasta shell with the cheese and veggie mixture. Set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the marinara sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir and let simmer for 5 minutes.
Assemble the Dish
Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover with the remaining sauce. Sprinkle additional mozzarella on top if desired.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious cheesy veggie stuffed shells!
Tips for Success
To achieve the best results with your Cheesy Veggie Stuffed Shells, make sure to cook the pasta shells until they are just al dente. This ensures they hold their shape while baking and don’t become mushy. If you find that the shells are sticking together after cooking, a light drizzle of olive oil can help separate them.
When mixing the filling, don’t hesitate to get creative with seasonings. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the flavor, and a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a little heat if desired. Taste your filling before stuffing the shells to ensure it’s seasoned to your liking.
Serving Suggestions
These Cheesy Veggie Stuffed Shells can be served with a simple side salad to add freshness to your meal. A light vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the cheese and provides a nice balance on the plate. You can also serve them alongside garlic bread for a classic Italian-inspired dinner.
For an extra touch, consider garnishing the baked shells with fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving. Not only does this add a pop of color, but it also enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover Cheesy Veggie Stuffed Shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
If you’ve frozen your stuffed shells, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This makes the reheating process quicker and ensures they warm evenly. Enjoy these delicious leftovers for a quick and satisfying meal any day of the week!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and bake them just before serving.
→ What other vegetables can I include?
You can add mushrooms, carrots, or any of your favorite vegetables.
→ Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cheesy Veggie Stuffed Shells
Cheesy Veggie Stuffed Shells are a delightful and hearty dish, perfect for a comforting family meal. Stuffed with a creamy cheese and vegetable filling, these shells are sure to please everyone at the table.
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stuffed Shells
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup zucchini, grated
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, diced bell pepper, grated zucchini, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Fill each cooked pasta shell with the cheese and veggie mixture. Set aside.
In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the marinara sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir and let simmer for 5 minutes.
Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover with the remaining sauce. Sprinkle additional mozzarella on top if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 15g