Indulge in a comforting Italian classic that will have your taste buds dancing with delight! Our Sausage Pepper Stuffed Shells are the perfect blend of savory Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and vibrant bell peppers, all nestled in tender jumbo pasta shells and topped with gooey melted cheese. This dish is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings family and friends together around the dinner table. With just 50 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made this mouthwatering recipe sooner! Get ready to impress your loved ones with this delectable delight that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until the sausage is fully browned and no pink remains, about 7-8 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the cooked sausage. Transfer the crumbled sausage to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the ricotta cheese, diced bell pepper, and half of the mozzarella cheese to the sausage. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the sausage and cheese mixture, placing them seam-side up in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring each shell is partially covered.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the shells.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the stuffed shells rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and makes serving easier.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or basil if desired.
Tips
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the jumbo pasta shells just until al dente. This will prevent them from becoming mushy when baked with the filling and sauce.
- Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to get creative! You can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even swap the Italian sausage for ground turkey or a meat alternative for a lighter version.
- Let the Sausage Cool: After cooking the sausage, allow it to cool slightly before mixing it with the ricotta and other ingredients. This helps prevent the mixture from becoming too runny.
- Layer Your Sauce: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the baking dish before placing the stuffed shells. This keeps them moist and adds delicious flavor.
- Cover and Uncover: Cover the baking dish with foil for the first part of baking to keep the moisture in. Remove the foil for the last few minutes to achieve that beautiful golden-brown cheese topping.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the stuffed shells to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps the filling set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile of your dish.Enjoy your cooking adventure with these tips, and watch as your kitchen transforms into an Italian trattoria!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 75mg
