Best Christmas Stuffed Shells

Best Christmas Stuffed Shells

Amelia West is not just any home cook; she’s a mom who turns her kitchen into a lively hub of creativity and joy. Memories swirl around her cooking space, filled with the laughter and excitement of her two children, Max and Ella. Every day, they get to taste-test new recipes, adding their own flair to the dishes. Christmas in the West household is a particularly special time, as Amelia finds herself flooded with festive spirit—joyful music playing, the scent of fresh cookies wafting through the air, and everyone loaded with anticipation for holiday feasts. It’s during this time that she prepares her renowned Best Christmas Stuffed Shells—a family favorite that always brings everyone together.

Why Make This Recipe

Why choose stuffed shells as part of your Christmas feast? It’s simple: stuffed shells are comforting, cheesy, and absolutely delicious. Amelia loves this recipe because it creates a cozy atmosphere around the dinner table, fostering togetherness and conversation. Plus, the vibrant colors from the marinara sauce and fresh parsley make it visually appealing—the perfect addition to your holiday spread. These stuffed shells are also incredibly easy to prepare, meaning there’s less time fiddling in the kitchen and more time spent creating joyful memories with your loved ones.

When Amelia first made stuffed shells for Max and Ella, they were instantly smitten. Not only did they love the flavors, but the kids especially enjoyed the task of stuffing the shells—with a little guidance, of course! Now, it’s a holiday tradition they eagerly anticipate each year. Each bite is a reminder of family unity and celebration, making this dish a cherished part of their Christmas festivities.

How to Make Best Christmas Stuffed Shells

Cooking with Amelia in her kitchen is always a fun experience. With her simple, straightforward approach, she encourages everyone to join in and get their hands a little messy. Here’s how to make the Best Christmas Stuffed Shells yourself:

Ingredients:

• 1 package jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside. It’s best to do this while the kids get their hands ready for stuffing!
3. In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This creamy cheese mixture is where the fun begins.
4. Now, it’s time to stuff each pasta shell with the cheese mixture. Let the kids scoop the filling in with a spoon—it’s a great way for them to learn measuring and portion control!
5. Spread some marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Amelia often lets Max and Ella pour the sauce, giggling as they make a mess.
6. Place the stuffed shells on top of the sauce in the dish, and cover them with the remaining marinara sauce.
7. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. More cheese means more gooey goodness!
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. The kitchen will soon be filled with a delightful aroma.
9. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This is the part where everyone starts gathering in the kitchen.
10. Garnish your beautiful creation with fresh parsley before serving. A sprinkle of green makes it festive!

How to Serve Best Christmas Stuffed Shells

When it comes to serving these stuffed shells, Amelia loves to keep things casual and cheerful. She plates the shells neatly and adds a generous spoonful of marinara sauce on top. A sprinkle of extra cheese never hurts! To make the presentation even more festive, she often adds a sprig of fresh parsley on the side and carries the dish to the dining table proudly. It usually becomes a centerpiece; everyone’s eyes light up when they see the cheesy goodness!

Pair these Best Christmas Stuffed Shells with a simple Caesar salad and a loaf of warm, crusty bread. It creates a cozy, hearty meal that is sure to impress everyone at your holiday gathering.

How to Store Best Christmas Stuffed Shells

Leftovers? Yes, please! These stuffed shells store well, and Amelia always makes a big batch so the family can enjoy them days later. Here’s how to store them properly:

• In the Refrigerator: Allow the remaining stuffed shells to cool completely. Then, transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• In the Freezer: You can also freeze the stuffed shells if you want to make them ahead of time. Once cooled, place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can be kept frozen for up to 2-3 months.

When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Tips to Make Best Christmas Stuffed Shells

Amelia loves to share her tips with fellow home cooks to make the process even simpler:

• Cheese Choices: Use a blend of cheeses for different flavors! You can add mozzarella, fontina, or even gouda for that extra creamy texture.
• Vegetable Boost: To sneak in some veggies, consider adding spinach or finely chopped mushrooms into the cheese mixture.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the stuffed shells in advance and cover them with sauce. Pop them in the fridge overnight and bake when you’re ready for your feast!

Variations

While Amelia’s Best Christmas Stuffed Shells are beloved, don’t be afraid to play around with this recipe! Here are some fun variations:

• Meat Lovers: Add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef to the cheese filling for a heartier meal.
• Pesto Delight: Swap out marinara sauce for pesto to give the shells a fresh, herby flavor—perfect for a different holiday twist.
• Plant-Based: For a plant-based version, use vegan cheese alternatives and an egg substitute like flaxseed or applesauce to keep it kid-friendly.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare Best Christmas Stuffed Shells in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the shells ahead of time and keep them in the fridge for up to a day before baking.

2. What other sauces can I use instead of marinara?
You can use Alfredo sauce or a creamy white sauce for a different flavor profile.

3. Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Absolutely! Just follow the storage instructions above and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy them.

Amelia West’s Best Christmas Stuffed Shells are not just a meal. They are a celebration of family, love, and the joy of cooking. With every stuffed shell, Amelia creates lasting memories that warm the heart, reminding us all that food is truly the heart of our homes during the holidays. So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to bring smiles, just like it does in Amelia’s kitchen.