Cottage Cheese Stuffed Shells Flavorful Pasta Dish

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- 12 jumbo pasta shells - 1 cup cottage cheese - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 large egg, lightly beaten - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 cups marinara sauce - Fresh basil leaves for garnish - Use 12 jumbo pasta shells for a hearty meal. - Measure 1 cup each of cottage and ricotta cheeses for creaminess. - For a cheesy topping, use 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. - Add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan for a rich flavor. - One large egg binds the filling together well. - One teaspoon of Italian seasoning adds great taste. - Adjust salt and pepper to your liking. - Pour 2 cups of marinara sauce for moisture and flavor. - Fresh basil leaves add a nice touch as a garnish. - You can add cooked spinach for extra greens. - Ground meat can make the filling heartier. - Use different cheeses like goat cheese for a twist. - Consider adding crushed red pepper for some heat. - A sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten the dish. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step helps the shells bake evenly and turn golden brown. Preheating is key to getting the best results. Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells carefully. Cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This usually takes 9 to 11 minutes. Once cooked, drain the shells in a colander. Let them cool slightly, so you don’t burn your fingers when you stuff them. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. Add one lightly beaten egg, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well until smooth. This creamy filling will make your shells rich and tasty. Now, take each cooked shell. Use a spoon to fill it with about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture. Be gentle to avoid tearing the shells. Place the stuffed shells upright in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Make sure they fit snugly together for even cooking. Once all the shells are in the dish, pour the marinara sauce over them. Ensure every shell gets a good amount of sauce. This keeps the shells moist and adds flavor as they bake. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil carefully. Return the dish to the oven to bake uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbling and golden brown. Once done, take it out and let it cool for about 5 minutes. For a fresh touch, add some basil leaves on top before serving. Enjoy your delicious cottage cheese stuffed shells! To cook perfect pasta, always use a large pot. Fill it with plenty of water. This helps the pasta move around freely. Add a good amount of salt to the water. This enhances the pasta’s flavor. Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the shells. Cook the shells for 9-11 minutes until they are al dente. This means they should be firm but not hard. Stir the shells gently to avoid sticking. Once done, drain them and let them cool. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. It’s best to keep the pasta and sauce separate. This helps maintain the texture. You can refrigerate them for up to three days. To reheat, place the shells in a baking dish. Pour some marinara sauce over them. Cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes. This keeps them moist and tasty. To boost flavor, don’t skip the seasonings. Italian seasoning adds a nice touch. You can also mix in fresh herbs like parsley or basil. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a bit of heat if you like spice. For a richer taste, try adding garlic powder or onion powder. These simple tweaks make a big difference. Always taste the filling before stuffing. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to ensure a balanced flavor. Pro Tips Don’t Overcook the Shells: Cooking the pasta shells until just al dente will prevent them from becoming mushy when baked. Mix Cheeses for Flavor: Combining different cheeses like cottage, ricotta, and mozzarella adds depth to the filling's flavor profile. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil not only garnishes the dish but also enhances the overall flavor. Consider adding some to the filling for extra freshness. Let It Rest: Allowing the stuffed shells to cool for a few minutes after baking helps the filling set, making it easier to serve. {{image_4}} You can easily add more veggies to your dish. Spinach and mushrooms work well here. Chopped zucchini and bell peppers are also great choices. Mix these with the cheese filling for extra flavor and texture. You can also use kale instead of spinach for a different twist. If you need a gluten-free meal, use gluten-free pasta shells. Many brands make tasty gluten-free options. You can find them at most grocery stores. Make sure to check the label for cooking instructions, as they may differ from regular pasta. You can still enjoy the same creamy filling with these shells. Want to change things up? Try using different cheeses! Feta or goat cheese can add a tangy twist. You can also use flavored ricotta for more depth. For a spicy kick, mix in some red pepper flakes. Experimenting with fresh herbs can also brighten the dish. Basil, parsley, or oregano can give new life to your stuffed shells. After you make your cottage cheese stuffed shells, let them cool down. Once cooled, cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil. Store the shells in the fridge. They stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. If you want to eat them later, make sure to reheat them well. You can also freeze your stuffed shells for longer storage. To do this, assemble the dish as usual but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then with foil. Place it in the freezer. The shells will last for about 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking. For the best taste, always check the shells before eating. If they smell off or look strange, it’s best to throw them away. If you want to keep the flavors fresh, store them sealed. This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps them tasty. Enjoy your delicious cottage cheese stuffed shells at their best! Yes, you can prepare stuffed shells a day ahead. After assembling, cover them tightly and store in the fridge. When ready, just bake them. This saves time and makes dinner easy. Cottage cheese stuffed shells pair well with a simple side salad. A Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness. Garlic bread also complements the dish nicely. You can also add steamed veggies for extra color and nutrients. To avoid tearing, be gentle. Cook the shells until they are firm but not too soft. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a colander. Let them cool slightly before filling. This way, they stay sturdy while you stuff them. Yes, substitutions are easy! You can use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese. If you want, swap mozzarella for provolone cheese. For a twist, add spinach or mushrooms to the cheese mixture. Just keep the flavors balanced. Reheat stuffed shells in the oven for best results. Cover them with foil to keep them moist. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. You can also use the microwave, but the oven keeps the pasta from getting soggy. This blog covered how to make delicious cottage cheese stuffed shells. You learned about ingredients and steps to cook them perfectly. I shared tips on storing leftovers and ideas for variations. Remember, cooking can be fun and easy. Experiment with different flavors and substitutes. Enjoy creating your own dishes, and don’t forget to share the results with friends and family. Your kitchen adventures can bring joy to everyone! Keep exploring and make this recipe your own.

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Are you ready to elevate your pasta nights? Cottage Cheese Stuffed Shells offer a delightful blend of creamy cheese and savory sauce, making each bite memorable. In this guide, I’ll share easy steps to create this flavorful dish. You’ll learn about the best ingredients and tips for perfecting your shells. Let’s dive into this tasty adventure and make your dinner the star of the week!

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Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comfort Food Classic: This recipe embodies the essence of comfort food, with creamy cheeses and hearty pasta shells that warm the soul.
  2. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
  3. Customizable: You can easily adapt the filling by adding sautéed vegetables, different herbs, or even meats to suit your taste preferences.
  4. Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a go-to option for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 12 jumbo pasta shells

– 1 cup cottage cheese

– 1 cup ricotta cheese

– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 large egg, lightly beaten

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 cups marinara sauce

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Measurement Details

– Use 12 jumbo pasta shells for a hearty meal.

– Measure 1 cup each of cottage and ricotta cheeses for creaminess.

– For a cheesy topping, use 1 cup of shredded mozzarella.

– Add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan for a rich flavor.

– One large egg binds the filling together well.

– One teaspoon of Italian seasoning adds great taste.

– Adjust salt and pepper to your liking.

– Pour 2 cups of marinara sauce for moisture and flavor.

– Fresh basil leaves add a nice touch as a garnish.

Optional Ingredients

– You can add cooked spinach for extra greens.

– Ground meat can make the filling heartier.

– Use different cheeses like goat cheese for a twist.

– Consider adding crushed red pepper for some heat.

– A sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheating the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step helps the shells bake evenly and turn golden brown. Preheating is key to getting the best results.

Cooking the Pasta Shells

Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells carefully. Cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This usually takes 9 to 11 minutes. Once cooked, drain the shells in a colander. Let them cool slightly, so you don’t burn your fingers when you stuff them.

Preparing the Cheese Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. Add one lightly beaten egg, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well until smooth. This creamy filling will make your shells rich and tasty.

Stuffing the Shells

Now, take each cooked shell. Use a spoon to fill it with about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture. Be gentle to avoid tearing the shells. Place the stuffed shells upright in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure they fit snugly together for even cooking.

Adding Marinara Sauce

Once all the shells are in the dish, pour the marinara sauce over them. Ensure every shell gets a good amount of sauce. This keeps the shells moist and adds flavor as they bake.

Baking and Garnishing

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil carefully. Return the dish to the oven to bake uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbling and golden brown. Once done, take it out and let it cool for about 5 minutes. For a fresh touch, add some basil leaves on top before serving. Enjoy your delicious cottage cheese stuffed shells!

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Cooking Pasta

To cook perfect pasta, always use a large pot. Fill it with plenty of water. This helps the pasta move around freely. Add a good amount of salt to the water. This enhances the pasta’s flavor. Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the shells. Cook the shells for 9-11 minutes until they are al dente. This means they should be firm but not hard. Stir the shells gently to avoid sticking. Once done, drain them and let them cool.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. It’s best to keep the pasta and sauce separate. This helps maintain the texture. You can refrigerate them for up to three days. To reheat, place the shells in a baking dish. Pour some marinara sauce over them. Cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes. This keeps them moist and tasty.

Enhancing Flavor with Seasonings

To boost flavor, don’t skip the seasonings. Italian seasoning adds a nice touch. You can also mix in fresh herbs like parsley or basil. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a bit of heat if you like spice. For a richer taste, try adding garlic powder or onion powder. These simple tweaks make a big difference. Always taste the filling before stuffing. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to ensure a balanced flavor.

Pro Tips

  1. Don’t Overcook the Shells: Cooking the pasta shells until just al dente will prevent them from becoming mushy when baked.
  2. Mix Cheeses for Flavor: Combining different cheeses like cottage, ricotta, and mozzarella adds depth to the filling’s flavor profile.
  3. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil not only garnishes the dish but also enhances the overall flavor. Consider adding some to the filling for extra freshness.
  4. Let It Rest: Allowing the stuffed shells to cool for a few minutes after baking helps the filling set, making it easier to serve.

Variations

Vegetarian Add-ins

You can easily add more veggies to your dish. Spinach and mushrooms work well here. Chopped zucchini and bell peppers are also great choices. Mix these with the cheese filling for extra flavor and texture. You can also use kale instead of spinach for a different twist.

Gluten-Free Options

If you need a gluten-free meal, use gluten-free pasta shells. Many brands make tasty gluten-free options. You can find them at most grocery stores. Make sure to check the label for cooking instructions, as they may differ from regular pasta. You can still enjoy the same creamy filling with these shells.

Flavor Swaps

Want to change things up? Try using different cheeses! Feta or goat cheese can add a tangy twist. You can also use flavored ricotta for more depth. For a spicy kick, mix in some red pepper flakes. Experimenting with fresh herbs can also brighten the dish. Basil, parsley, or oregano can give new life to your stuffed shells.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

After you make your cottage cheese stuffed shells, let them cool down. Once cooled, cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil. Store the shells in the fridge. They stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. If you want to eat them later, make sure to reheat them well.

Freezing Cottage Cheese Stuffed Shells

You can also freeze your stuffed shells for longer storage. To do this, assemble the dish as usual but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then with foil. Place it in the freezer. The shells will last for about 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.

Shelf Life and Quality Tips

For the best taste, always check the shells before eating. If they smell off or look strange, it’s best to throw them away. If you want to keep the flavors fresh, store them sealed. This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps them tasty. Enjoy your delicious cottage cheese stuffed shells at their best!

FAQs

Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare stuffed shells a day ahead. After assembling, cover them tightly and store in the fridge. When ready, just bake them. This saves time and makes dinner easy.

What can I serve with Cottage Cheese Stuffed Shells?

Cottage cheese stuffed shells pair well with a simple side salad. A Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness. Garlic bread also complements the dish nicely. You can also add steamed veggies for extra color and nutrients.

How do I prevent pasta shells from tearing?

To avoid tearing, be gentle. Cook the shells until they are firm but not too soft. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a colander. Let them cool slightly before filling. This way, they stay sturdy while you stuff them.

Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?

Yes, substitutions are easy! You can use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese. If you want, swap mozzarella for provolone cheese. For a twist, add spinach or mushrooms to the cheese mixture. Just keep the flavors balanced.

What is the best way to reheat stuffed shells?

Reheat stuffed shells in the oven for best results. Cover them with foil to keep them moist. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. You can also use the microwave, but the oven keeps the pasta from getting soggy.

This blog covered how to make delicious cottage cheese stuffed shells. You learned about ingredients and steps to cook them perfectly. I shared tips on storing leftovers and ideas for variations. Remember, cooking can be fun and easy. Experiment with different flavors and substitutes. Enjoy creating your own dishes, and don’t forget to share the results with friends and family. Your kitchen adventures can bring joy to everyone! Keep exploring and make this recipe your ow

- 12 jumbo pasta shells - 1 cup cottage cheese - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 large egg, lightly beaten - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 cups marinara sauce - Fresh basil leaves for garnish - Use 12 jumbo pasta shells for a hearty meal. - Measure 1 cup each of cottage and ricotta cheeses for creaminess. - For a cheesy topping, use 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. - Add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan for a rich flavor. - One large egg binds the filling together well. - One teaspoon of Italian seasoning adds great taste. - Adjust salt and pepper to your liking. - Pour 2 cups of marinara sauce for moisture and flavor. - Fresh basil leaves add a nice touch as a garnish. - You can add cooked spinach for extra greens. - Ground meat can make the filling heartier. - Use different cheeses like goat cheese for a twist. - Consider adding crushed red pepper for some heat. - A sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten the dish. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step helps the shells bake evenly and turn golden brown. Preheating is key to getting the best results. Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells carefully. Cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This usually takes 9 to 11 minutes. Once cooked, drain the shells in a colander. Let them cool slightly, so you don’t burn your fingers when you stuff them. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. Add one lightly beaten egg, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well until smooth. This creamy filling will make your shells rich and tasty. Now, take each cooked shell. Use a spoon to fill it with about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture. Be gentle to avoid tearing the shells. Place the stuffed shells upright in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Make sure they fit snugly together for even cooking. Once all the shells are in the dish, pour the marinara sauce over them. Ensure every shell gets a good amount of sauce. This keeps the shells moist and adds flavor as they bake. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil carefully. Return the dish to the oven to bake uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbling and golden brown. Once done, take it out and let it cool for about 5 minutes. For a fresh touch, add some basil leaves on top before serving. Enjoy your delicious cottage cheese stuffed shells! To cook perfect pasta, always use a large pot. Fill it with plenty of water. This helps the pasta move around freely. Add a good amount of salt to the water. This enhances the pasta’s flavor. Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the shells. Cook the shells for 9-11 minutes until they are al dente. This means they should be firm but not hard. Stir the shells gently to avoid sticking. Once done, drain them and let them cool. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. It’s best to keep the pasta and sauce separate. This helps maintain the texture. You can refrigerate them for up to three days. To reheat, place the shells in a baking dish. Pour some marinara sauce over them. Cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes. This keeps them moist and tasty. To boost flavor, don’t skip the seasonings. Italian seasoning adds a nice touch. You can also mix in fresh herbs like parsley or basil. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a bit of heat if you like spice. For a richer taste, try adding garlic powder or onion powder. These simple tweaks make a big difference. Always taste the filling before stuffing. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to ensure a balanced flavor. Pro Tips Don’t Overcook the Shells: Cooking the pasta shells until just al dente will prevent them from becoming mushy when baked. Mix Cheeses for Flavor: Combining different cheeses like cottage, ricotta, and mozzarella adds depth to the filling's flavor profile. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil not only garnishes the dish but also enhances the overall flavor. Consider adding some to the filling for extra freshness. Let It Rest: Allowing the stuffed shells to cool for a few minutes after baking helps the filling set, making it easier to serve. {{image_4}} You can easily add more veggies to your dish. Spinach and mushrooms work well here. Chopped zucchini and bell peppers are also great choices. Mix these with the cheese filling for extra flavor and texture. You can also use kale instead of spinach for a different twist. If you need a gluten-free meal, use gluten-free pasta shells. Many brands make tasty gluten-free options. You can find them at most grocery stores. Make sure to check the label for cooking instructions, as they may differ from regular pasta. You can still enjoy the same creamy filling with these shells. Want to change things up? Try using different cheeses! Feta or goat cheese can add a tangy twist. You can also use flavored ricotta for more depth. For a spicy kick, mix in some red pepper flakes. Experimenting with fresh herbs can also brighten the dish. Basil, parsley, or oregano can give new life to your stuffed shells. After you make your cottage cheese stuffed shells, let them cool down. Once cooled, cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil. Store the shells in the fridge. They stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. If you want to eat them later, make sure to reheat them well. You can also freeze your stuffed shells for longer storage. To do this, assemble the dish as usual but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then with foil. Place it in the freezer. The shells will last for about 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking. For the best taste, always check the shells before eating. If they smell off or look strange, it’s best to throw them away. If you want to keep the flavors fresh, store them sealed. This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps them tasty. Enjoy your delicious cottage cheese stuffed shells at their best! Yes, you can prepare stuffed shells a day ahead. After assembling, cover them tightly and store in the fridge. When ready, just bake them. This saves time and makes dinner easy. Cottage cheese stuffed shells pair well with a simple side salad. A Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness. Garlic bread also complements the dish nicely. You can also add steamed veggies for extra color and nutrients. To avoid tearing, be gentle. Cook the shells until they are firm but not too soft. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a colander. Let them cool slightly before filling. This way, they stay sturdy while you stuff them. Yes, substitutions are easy! You can use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese. If you want, swap mozzarella for provolone cheese. For a twist, add spinach or mushrooms to the cheese mixture. Just keep the flavors balanced. Reheat stuffed shells in the oven for best results. Cover them with foil to keep them moist. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. You can also use the microwave, but the oven keeps the pasta from getting soggy. This blog covered how to make delicious cottage cheese stuffed shells. You learned about ingredients and steps to cook them perfectly. I shared tips on storing leftovers and ideas for variations. Remember, cooking can be fun and easy. Experiment with different flavors and substitutes. Enjoy creating your own dishes, and don’t forget to share the results with friends and family. Your kitchen adventures can bring joy to everyone! Keep exploring and make this recipe your own.

Cottage Cheese Stuffed Shells Delight

A delicious dish of jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy cheese mixture, topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 pieces jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • for garnish Fresh basil leaves

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, the beaten egg, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.
  • Fill each cooked shell with approximately 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells upright in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are fully covered.
  • Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
  • Allow to cool for about 5 minutes and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

Align the stuffed shells on a serving platter, add a scatter of fresh basil, and drizzle with high-quality olive oil for a beautiful finish.
Keyword cottage cheese, Italian, pasta, stuffed shells

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