Make Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells for a Delightful Holiday Feast

As the holiday season approaches, families gather around the table to share cherished traditions and comforting dishes. One recipe that shines brightly on many Christmas menus is Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells – a delightfully festive and delicious pasta dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. With its creamy ricotta filling, spinach, and zesty seasonings, this recipe is sure to become a new holiday favorite.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells

The key to creating the perfect Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells lies in the carefully selected ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

• For the shells: 18-20 jumbo pasta shells, extra-virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
• For the filling: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, 3/4 tsp sea salt, 1 tsp dried oregano, 5 oz fresh spinach (coarsely chopped), 1/4 cup grated pecorino cheese (I use Locatelli brand), 1 tsp lemon zest, 2 grated garlic cloves (freshly grated for best aroma), freshly ground black pepper (to taste), 2 cups ricotta cheese (whole milk preferred for richer flavor)
• For serving: 2 cups marinara sauce (your favorite store-bought brand), chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells

Now that you have all the necessary ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for preparing this delightful Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells recipe:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook Pasta: Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, drizzle with olive oil, and set aside to prevent sticking.
3. Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, grated pecorino, lemon zest, garlic, red pepper flakes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
4. Stuff Shells: Spoon the cheese and spinach mixture into each cooked pasta shell.
5. Assemble: Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place stuffed shells in the dish, then cover with remaining marinara sauce.
6. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes, until heated through and bubbly.
7. Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for Perfectly Stuffed Shells

To ensure your Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells turn out absolutely mouthwatering, here are a few helpful tips:

• Choose the right pasta shells: Opt for jumbo pasta shells, as they provide the perfect vessel for the creamy ricotta filling.
• Alternatives to ricotta cheese: If you prefer a slightly different texture, you can substitute the ricotta with a mixture of cottage cheese and cream cheese.
• Prepare the filling ahead of time: Make the cheese and spinach filling a day in advance, then simply spoon it into the shells when you’re ready to assemble and bake.
• Best marinara sauce options: Use your favorite store-bought marinara sauce, or make a homemade version for an extra touch of flavor.
• Customize the filling: Experiment with seasonal ingredients like mushrooms, diced roasted red peppers, or a sprinkle of holiday spices to give your Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells a unique twist.

Pairing Suggestions for Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells

To round out your Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells feast, consider these delightful pairing suggestions:

• Side dishes: Serve your stuffed shells with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a simple roasted vegetable medley.
• Wine pairings: A light, fruity red wine like a Pinot Noir or a crisp white such as a Sauvignon Blanc would complement the flavors of the dish beautifully.
• Dessert: End the meal on a sweet note with a classic Italian dessert like tiramisu, cannoli, or a festive holiday-themed treat.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Stuffed Shells

If you’re fortunate enough to have any Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them for optimal taste and texture:

• Storing: Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container or baking dish. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the leftover stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes, or until piping hot.
• Freezing: For longer-term storage, you can freeze the uncooked stuffed shells. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen shells in a baking dish, cover with sauce and bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are needed for Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells?

The main ingredients for Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells include jumbo pasta shells, ricotta cheese, spinach, pecorino cheese, lemon zest, garlic, and seasonings. You’ll also need marinara sauce and fresh parsley for serving.

Can I prepare Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare the filling for Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells in advance. Make the cheese and spinach mixture a day before, then simply stuff the shells and assemble the dish when you’re ready to bake.

Are there vegetarian options for the stuffing?

To make a vegetarian version of Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells, you can omit the ricotta cheese and instead use a plant-based alternative, such as a combination of crumbled tofu and vegan cream cheese. You can also add additional chopped vegetables, like mushrooms or bell peppers, to the filling.

How do I store and reheat leftover stuffed shells?

Leftover Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Garlic Shrimp over Mashed Potatoes
• Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
• Blackstone Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
• High Protein Enchilada Bowls

With its festive flavors and impressive presentation, Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells is sure to become a new family favorite this holiday season. Enjoy the rich, creamy goodness of this pasta dish surrounded by your loved ones, and create cherished memories that will last long after the last bite is savored.

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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