sausage stuffed shells recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best sausage stuffed shells recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite sausage stuffed shells recipe! This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just need a comforting meal for a weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers. The combination of savory sausage, creamy ricotta cheese, and the subtle tang of parmesan is simply irresistible.

And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, even for a beginner cook like I was when I first started making it. My kids love helping me stuff the shells with the delicious filling, and they always ask for seconds (and sometimes thirds!) This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients from the whole wheat pasta, lean sausage, and fresh vegetables.

I like to serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal. The leftovers are just as tasty the next day, so feel free to make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. One of the things I love about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can serve it as an appetizer, main course, or even as a fun twist on traditional lasagna. My family and I have enjoyed it at countless potlucks, family gatherings, and even as a quick weeknight dinner.

The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to customize to your taste preferences! Want more spice? Add some red pepper flakes!

Need more creaminess? Use half-and-half instead of ricotta! The possibilities are endless. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and get ready to become the most popular hostess on the block.

Sausage Stuffed Shells

4.7 from 841 votes

Sausage Stuffed Shells is a hearty and comforting dish featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with a savory sausage and cheese mixture, baked in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a family dinner, this recipe combines the best of Italian flavors in a satisfying meal.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

12 jumbo pasta shells

For the Filling

1 lb Italian sausage
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

2 cups marinara sauce
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.
3Drain and set aside.
4In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
5Add the onion and garlic, sauté until translucent and fragrant.
6Add the Italian sausage, cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon.
7Drain excess fat.
8In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage mixture, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
9Mix well until fully incorporated.
10Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the sausage mixture, ensuring they are evenly filled.
11In a separate bowl, mix the marinara sauce with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
12Spread a thin layer of the sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
13Place the stuffed shells in the dish, arranging them in a single layer.
14Pour the remaining sauce over the shells, ensuring they are well coated.
15Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
16Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
17Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the sauce is heated through.
18Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
19Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Skillet
Baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 25g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture. You can also add spinach or other vegetables to the filling for extra nutrition.

Watch Video Of How Sausage Stuffed Shells Works

This sausage stuffed shells recipe is always a crowd-pleaser at any occasion – whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just need a comforting meal for yourself.

The leftovers are just as delicious reheated in the microwave or oven, making it perfect for meal prep or when you’re short on time.

For added convenience, consider making individual portions by freezing them on baking sheets before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag for future meals.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sausage Stuffed Shells

Q: What type of sausage should I use in this recipe?

A: You can use any type of sausage you like, but I highly recommend using sweet Italian sausage for its rich flavor and tender texture. If you prefer spicy sausage, go ahead and use that instead!

Q: Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese instead of whole milk ricotta?

A: While low-fat ricotta cheese will work in this recipe, keep in mind that it may affect the overall flavor and texture. Whole milk ricotta cheese provides a richer taste and creamier consistency that pairs perfectly with the sausage.

Q: How long do I need to cook the stuffed shells?

A: You’ll want to cook them for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re tender but still firm in the center. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into one of the shells – if it slides in easily, they’re done!

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake the shells.

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