Stuffed Jumbo Shells

Stuffed Jumbo Shells Recipe from Italy: Tomato, Macaroni, Tofu, Parsley, Onion, Basil, Parmesan Cheese

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 6

Introduction

Stuffed Jumbo Shells is a classic Italian dish that features pasta shells filled with a delicious cheese and herb mixture, baked in a savory tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

History

Stuffed Jumbo Shells, also known as Conchiglie Ripiene, originated in Italy and has been a popular dish for generations. The recipe has been passed down through families and has evolved over time to include various fillings and sauces.

Ingredients

3 cups tomato sauce
4 oz (113 g) jumbo macaroni shells
1.5 lb (680 g) tofu, mashed, or 1 lb tofu, mashed, and 0.5 lb (227 g) mozzarella cheese, grated
0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp onion powder
1.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp garlic powder
0.5 tsp basil
parmesan cheese (optional)

How to prepare

Boil the macaroni shells in salted water until they are cooked but still firm (al dente).
In a mixing bowl, combine tofu, parsley, onion powder, salt, garlic powder, and basil.
Spread 2 cups of tomato sauce on the bottom of a 9-inch square pan.
Using a spoon, fill each cooked shell with about 0.33 cup of the tofu mixture and arrange them in the pan.
Pour 0.5 cup of water into the remaining tomato sauce and mix well. Drizzle the sauce over the stuffed shells.
If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) until the tomato sauce is bubbly, approximately 25 minutes.

Variations

Add cooked ground beef or sausage to the cheese mixture for a meaty version.
Use different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the cheese filling.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the pasta shells al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.

- Use a piping bag or a spoon to easily fill the shells with the cheese mixture.

- Make sure to spread the tomato sauce evenly over the stuffed shells to ensure they cook evenly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Stuffed Jumbo Shells with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ricotta cheese instead of tofu for a creamier filling.

- Substitute the tomato sauce with marinara sauce for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Stuffed Jumbo Shells ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Stuffed Jumbo Shells on a platter garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Stuffed Jumbo Shells with a glass of red wine or a crisp salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Stuffed Jumbo Shells contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Stuffed Jumbo Shells contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Stuffed Jumbo Shells contains approximately 25 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Stuffed Jumbo Shells contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Stuffed Jumbo Shells are a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

Stuffed Jumbo Shells contain dairy and gluten.

Summary

Stuffed Jumbo Shells are a delicious and satisfying dish that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Stuffed Jumbo Shells are a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With a cheesy filling and savory tomato sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a crisp autumn day, and I was browsing through a dusty old cookbook at a yard sale. As soon as I came across the page for Stuffed Jumbo Shells, I knew I had to try it. The combination of creamy ricotta cheese, savory marinara sauce, and tender pasta shells seemed like a match made in heaven.

I purchased the cookbook for a mere dollar and hurried home to gather the ingredients. I had never made Stuffed Jumbo Shells before, but I was determined to give it a try. I carefully followed the instructions, mixing together the ricotta cheese, eggs, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. I stuffed the mixture into cooked jumbo pasta shells and nestled them in a baking dish. I covered them with marinara sauce and a generous sprinkling of mozzarella cheese before popping them in the oven.

As the shells baked, the savory aroma filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. When they emerged from the oven, golden and bubbling, I couldn't wait to dig in. The first bite was pure bliss - the creamy cheese filling melded perfectly with the tangy sauce and tender pasta. I knew I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a family favorite for years to come.

Over the years, I have made Stuffed Jumbo Shells countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my tastes. I have added spinach for a touch of greenery, swapped out the marinara sauce for a homemade tomato cream sauce, and even experimented with different cheeses like fontina and goat cheese. No matter how I change it up, the dish always brings a smile to the faces of my loved ones.

One of my favorite memories involving Stuffed Jumbo Shells was when my dear friend Maggie came over for dinner. She had never tried the dish before, and I was excited to introduce her to its deliciousness. As we sat down at the table and took our first bites, Maggie's eyes widened in delight. She couldn't stop raving about how good it was, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had introduced her to such a wonderful recipe.

Maggie begged me for the recipe, and I gladly shared it with her. She went home and made the dish for her own family, who also fell in love with it. From that day on, Stuffed Jumbo Shells became a staple in Maggie's household, just as it had in mine.

As the years passed, I continued to make Stuffed Jumbo Shells for special occasions and family gatherings. It became a tradition to serve the dish on holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, much to the delight of my grandchildren. They would eagerly help me stuff the pasta shells and sprinkle cheese on top, their faces lit up with excitement.

One day, my oldest granddaughter asked me where I had learned to make Stuffed Jumbo Shells. I smiled and told her about the cookbook I had found at a yard sale all those years ago. She was fascinated by the story and asked if she could have the cookbook when I was gone. I promised her that she would inherit not only the cookbook but also my love for cooking and sharing recipes with others.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the memories I have made with Stuffed Jumbo Shells, I realize that it is more than just a recipe to me. It is a symbol of family, tradition, and the joy of cooking for those you love. I am grateful for the day I stumbled upon that cookbook at the yard sale, for it led me to discover a dish that has brought so much happiness into my life.

So, if you ever find yourself drawn to a recipe like a moth to a flame, don't hesitate to give it a try. You never know where it might lead you - perhaps to a delicious meal that will become a cherished part of your family's culinary repertoire for generations to come.