Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 box of jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups of ricotta di bufala
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 cups of marinara sauce
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
- Baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta di bufala, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
4. Spoon the cheese mixture into each pasta shell until full.
5. Pour marinara sauce into the bottom of a baking dish.
6. Place the stuffed shells on top of the sauce in the baking dish.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 25g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Regular ricotta cheese can be used instead of ricotta di bufala.
- Any type of grated cheese can be used instead of Parmesan cheese.
- Fresh basil can be used instead of parsley.
Variations:
- Add cooked ground beef or sausage to the cheese mixture for a meaty version.
- Add spinach or kale to the cheese mixture for a healthier version.
- Use a different type of pasta, such as penne or rigatoni, instead of shells.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the pasta shells until al dente so they don't become too soft and fall apart.
- Use a piping bag or plastic bag with a corner cut off to fill the pasta shells with the cheese mixture.
- Top with extra Parmesan cheese before baking for a crispy, cheesy crust.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
Serve on a platter with fresh parsley or basil on top.
Garnishes:
Fresh parsley or basil.
Pairings:
Garlic bread and a side salad.
Suggested side dishes:
Roasted vegetables or a Caesar salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the pasta shells are too hard or too soft, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the pasta shells and meat (if using) to the appropriate temperature to avoid foodborne illness.
Food history:
Stuffed pasta dishes have been popular in Italian cuisine for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a main dish for dinner or as a side dish for a potluck or party.
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Region: Italian