Stuffed Shells
Try this Stuffed Shells recipe.
Try this Stuffed Shells recipe.
- 1 ts salt
- 2 egg whites
- 2 ts salt
- 1/2 ts black pepper
- 1 ts black pepper
- 6 oz can tomato paste
- 1/2 c bell peppers -- chopped
- 1 tb parsley
- 1 ts granulated sugar
- 3 c fat-free mozzarella cheese
- 24 oz pkg fat-free cottage cheese
- 3 ts oregano
- (i use healthy
- 8 oz pkg mushrooms -- sliced
- 12 oz pkg jumbo pasta shells
- 1/2 c fat-free parmesan cheese (i
- 3 ts basil
- 1/2 c onions -- chopped
- 2 cloves garlic -- minced
- 1 lb ground turkey -- cooked
- 2 14 5 oz cans tomatoes --
- stuffing for shells
- Carbohydrate 12.8150835673768 g
- Cholesterol 20.16 mg
- Fat 0.39740275857 g
- Fiber 4.26478869753267 g
- Protein 44.38076314792 g
- Saturated Fat 0.0713070647666667 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (496g)
- Sodium 971.809199304667 mg
- Sugar 8.55029486984416 g
- Trans Fat 0.165196568033 g
- Calories 234 calories
Step-by-step
- To prepare spaghetti sauce, saute mushrooms, onions, peppers, and garlic until tender.
- Then, add meat and cook until no pink remains. Drain.
- Stir in undrained tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil; reduce heat. Cover; and simmer for 30 minutes. Then, set aside.
- Preheat oven at 350.
- To prepare stuffing, bring water to a boil in a large pot and add shells.
- Return to a boil, then continue cooking for 5 to 6 minutes more, or until shells are barely tender.
- Drain and set aside on a flat baking sheet (to prevent sticking).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, 2 cups mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg whites, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Pour 1 cup of spaghetti sauce onto the bottom of a 13 x 9 x 2" pan.
- Fill each shell generously with the cheese mixture, about 1 tablespoon in each shell.
- Place filled shells in the pan.
- Pour remaining spaghetti sauce over each shell, then top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until golden.
My Comfort Food Classic: Stuffed Shells
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner needs to be quick, satisfying, and ideally, something the whole family will enjoy. That's where my trusty Stuffed Shells recipe comes in. It's a weeknight lifesaver, a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, and honestly, just plain delicious. What's even better? It's surprisingly easy to make, even on those evenings when I'm juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and a never-ending to-do list.
The aroma alone is enough to transport me back to my childhood. My grandmother used to make a similar dish, and it always filled the kitchen with a warm, inviting scent of simmering tomatoes, herbs, and bubbling cheese. It wasn't just a meal; it was an experience. A taste of home, of family, of comforting traditions. Now, I create those same memories for my own children, watching their faces light up as they take their first bite. The simple act of making this dish becomes a small act of love, a way of nurturing and connecting with my family.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. I often tweak it based on what's available in my fridge or what my family is craving that day. Sometimes I swap ground turkey for Italian sausage, or add spinach and mushrooms to the cheese filling for extra flavor and nutrients. Feel free to get creative! The key is to let your own tastes and preferences guide you. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own.
Beyond the Recipe:
This dish is more than just a delicious meal; it’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients and heartfelt cooking. It’s a reminder that the most cherished moments often revolve around the simplest things – good food, shared laughter, and the warmth of family. And the best part? The leftovers are even better the next day! It's a recipe that keeps on giving, much like the love and care that goes into making it.
I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. It's a small piece of my heart, served piping hot on your plate.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook the shells: Al dente shells will hold their shape better and won’t become mushy during baking.
- Use good quality cheese: The flavor of the cheese is a major component of the dish, so splurge a little and use a cheese you love.
- Make ahead: You can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and bake them later. This is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining.
- Get creative with the filling: Add your favorite vegetables, herbs, or meats to customize the filling to your liking.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad for a complete and balanced meal.
- Add a crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect complement.
This recipe isn't just about food; it's about creating moments, sharing memories, and bringing a little bit of warmth and happiness to your table. So gather your family, put on some music, and let the delicious aroma of homemade stuffed shells fill your kitchen. Happy cooking!
