Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience! These Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells are not just a meal, they're a flavor-packed journey that combines the classic comfort of Italian-American cuisine with a gourmet twist. Imagine perfectly cooked pasta shells generously stuffed with a creamy, cheesy filling, smothered in rich marinara sauce, and baked to golden perfection. This recipe is so delicious, it'll have your family and friends begging for seconds – and asking for the recipe!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that it is hot and ready for your stuffed shells once they are prepared.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Carefully add the 12 large pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the pasta shells are cooked, drain them in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture. Use a spoon to fill each shell generously, ensuring they are packed but not overflowing.
- In a baking dish, spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom to prevent the shells from sticking. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish, seam side up.
- Once all shells are arranged, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the marinara sauce for an extra cheesy finish.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to settle.
- Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells!
Tips
- Cook pasta shells just until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
- Use a spoon or piping bag to easily and neatly fill the shells with the cheese mixture.
- For extra flavor, consider adding some finely chopped cooked chicken to the cheese filling.
- Make sure to spread sauce on the bottom of the baking dish to prevent sticking and add moisture.
- Don't skip letting the dish rest for a few minutes after baking – this helps the flavors meld and makes serving easier.
- For a crispy top, you can broil the dish for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Prep tip: You can assemble this dish ahead of time and refrigerate, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
