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The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and, most importantly, sharing meals with loved ones. As families gather around the table, the warmth of good food brings them closer together, creating memories that last a lifetime. Among the array of festive dishes that grace our tables during this special time, stuffed shells stand out as a beloved favorite. These delightful pasta pockets, filled to the brim with savory ingredients, are not only visually stunning but also embody the comforting flavors we crave during the colder months.

Best Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe

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Ingredients
  

20 jumbo pasta shells

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup cooked and crumbled Italian sausage (or ground turkey for a lighter option)

1 egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Pasta Shells: Boil a large pot of salted water. Carefully add the jumbo shells and cook for about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool, gently spreading them out to prevent sticking.

      Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cooked Italian sausage, chopped spinach, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, dried herbs, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.

        Stuff the Shells: Take each cooled pasta shell and fill it generously with the cheese and sausage mixture. Use a spoon or a piping bag for easier stuffing.

          Prepare the Baking Dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce.

            Top with Sauce and Cheese: Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

              Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to prevent cheese from browning too quickly) and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, let the shells rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

                  Prep Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4-6