Nothing beats a warm plate of cheesy stuffed shells when it comes to comfort food. But what if you could make them without the hassle of multiple pots and pans? Enter the one-pan stuffed shells recipe—a game-changer for busy weeknights. This version uses cottage cheese for a creamy filling, making it lighter yet just as delicious as traditional ricotta-based recipes. Let’s dive in!
Stuffed Shells with Cottage Cheese
If you're looking for a twist on the classic stuffed shells, this recipe is for you. By using cottage cheese, you not only lighten the dish but also add a protein-packed punch. The result? A creamy, flavorful filling that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Why This Stuffed Shells Recipe Works
This recipe is perfect for those who want a hearty meal with minimal cleanup. Here's why it works:
- One-Pan Magic: No need to boil the pasta separately. Everything cooks together in one pan, saving you time and effort.
- Healthy Twist: Cottage cheese offers a lighter, protein-rich alternative to ricotta.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.
Why Cottage Cheese?
Cottage cheese is often overlooked in pasta dishes, but it's a fantastic option for stuffed shells. Here’s why you should give it a try:
- Lower in Fat: Cottage cheese is typically lower in fat compared to ricotta.
- High in Protein: It’s a great source of protein, making your meal more filling.
- Creamy Texture: When blended, cottage cheese mimics the creamy consistency of ricotta.
Can you substitute ricotta for cottage cheese in recipes?
Absolutely! If you prefer ricotta, you can use it instead of cottage cheese. However, blending cottage cheese can achieve a similar creamy texture with fewer calories and more protein. It’s all about personal preference.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make one-pan stuffed shells:
- Jumbo pasta shells
- Cottage cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Marinara sauce
- Garlic
- Fresh basil
- Salt and pepper
How to Make Stuffed Shells
Making one-pan stuffed shells is easy and mess-free. Follow these steps for a perfect dish every time:
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix cottage cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff the Shells: Carefully fill each shell with the cheese mixture.
- Assemble the Pan: In a large oven-safe pan, spread a layer of marinara sauce. Place the stuffed shells in the pan, then pour the remaining sauce over the top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes. Remove the foil, add more mozzarella on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
Stuffed Shells Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are some variations to try:
- Meat Lovers: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or turkey to the cheese mixture.
- Vegetarian: Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a veggie-packed option.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for some heat.
Serving Suggestion
Pair your one-pan stuffed shells with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine wouldn’t hurt either!
Storage
Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Place in a freezer-safe dish and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Stuffed Shells Recipe
Equipment
- Large oven-safe pan
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each shell with the cheese mixture.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce in your oven-safe pan. Place the stuffed shells on top.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells.
- Cover the pan with foil and bake for 30-40 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle more mozzarella on top, and bake for another 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Last Step
Before serving, let the dish sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Notes
- You can make the filling ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.
- Feel free to use store-bought marinara sauce or make your own from scratch.
Nutrition
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Conclusion
One-pan stuffed shells are a delicious, hassle-free meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend comfort food. The cottage cheese filling is creamy and satisfying, offering a lighter twist on the classic recipe. With endless variations and easy storage options, this dish is a must-try for pasta lovers.FAQs
1. Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?
- Yes, you can use ricotta if you prefer a more traditional filling.
2. Can I add meat to the filling?
- Absolutely! Ground beef, sausage, or turkey are great additions.
3. How do I make this dish gluten-free?
- Use gluten-free pasta shells and ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
5. How long can I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
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