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Christmas Stuffed Shells

Christmas Stuffed Shells: A Cozy Holiday Delight

Warm, creamy Christmas Stuffed Shells filled with ricotta and mozzarella, topped with homemade marinara sauce – perfect for your holiday gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 shells
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Stuffing
  • 12 pieces Jumbo pasta shells Cook al dente
  • 15 ounces Ricotta cheese Whole milk preferred
  • 3/4 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Aged varieties preferred
For the Sauce
  • 3 cups Marinara sauce Homemade or high-quality store-bought
Seasonings
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Or swap with fresh minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Italian herbs Fresh herbs can be used
  • 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg Optional
For Assembly
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil For greasing the baking dish

Equipment

  • Oven
  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • baking dish
  • spoon or piping bag

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish with olive oil.
  2. Cook jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a mixing bowl, blend ricotta, 3/4 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and nutmeg.
  4. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. Fill each shell with the cheese mixture.
  5. Pour remaining marinara sauce over the shells and top with additional mozzarella.
  6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10 minutes.
  7. Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1shellCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 15gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Feel free to customize with spinach or other cheeses for a personal touch, and serve warm with loved ones this holiday season.

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