Name: Sausage Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 20 jumbo pasta shells; 1 pound Italian sausage; 2 cups 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; Fresh basil for garnish

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Why make this recipe

Sausage stuffed shells are a wonderful meal that brings comfort and satisfaction. They are flavorful, filling, and make a great dish for family dinner or gatherings. This recipe combines rich Italian ingredients, including sausage and cheese, and wraps them in large pasta shells. It’s simple to prepare yet offers a homemade feel that everyone will enjoy.

How to make Sausage Stuffed Shells

Ingredients

20 jumbo pasta shells
1 pound Italian sausage
2 cups 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
Fresh basil for garnish

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned; drain excess fat.
In a bowl, mix the cooked sausage, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Stuff each cooked shell with the sausage and cheese mixture.
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish and cover with the remaining marinara sauce.
Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

How to serve Sausage Stuffed Shells

Serve the sausage stuffed shells hot, straight from the oven. You can pair them with a side salad or some garlic bread to create a complete meal. Don’t forget to sprinkle a bit of extra Parmesan on top if you like!

How to store Sausage Stuffed Shells

To store leftover sausage stuffed shells, cool them down and then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Tips to make Sausage Stuffed Shells

Use different types of sausage like spicy or mild to adjust the flavor.
Add some vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the cheese mixture for added nutrition.
Make sure not to overcook the pasta shells, as they will cook further in the oven.

Variation

You can easily change the filling to use ground turkey or chicken instead of Italian sausage for a lighter option. You can also swap the cheeses according to your preference, such as using goat cheese or cottage cheese for a different taste.

FAQs

Can I freeze Sausage Stuffed Shells?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Just assemble them in the baking dish, cover them tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.

How long do the leftovers last?
Leftover sausage stuffed shells can last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Ensure they are stored in an airtight container.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sausage and cheese filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just stuff the shells and bake when you’re ready to eat.