These Over-The-Top Stuffed Shells Pasta are a delicious twist on classic stuffed shells, combining creamy cheese, hearty sausage, and nutritious broccoli. Baked to golden perfection, this dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or anytime you crave cheesy comfort food.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 box jumbo pasta shells
1 lb Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1 egg
2 cups marinara sauce
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

Prepare the Shells:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
Make the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, chopped broccoli, ricotta cheese, ½ cup mozzarella cheese, ½ cup Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix until evenly incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Stuff the Shells:
- Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of the filling into each shell. Place the stuffed shells in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Add Sauce and Cheese:
- Pour marinara sauce over the shells, covering them evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
- Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Nutrients

Calories: ~400 kcal per serving
Protein: ~22 g
Carbohydrates: ~32 g
Fat: ~20 g
Sodium: ~800 mg
Fiber: ~3 g

Why This Recipe Stands Out

While traditional stuffed shells are delicious, this recipe adds a unique twist with the inclusion of Italian sausage and broccoli. These ingredients elevate the dish by introducing new textures and flavors, making it more hearty and satisfying. Here’s why this version is a standout:

Italian Sausage: Adds a savory depth and a hint of spice that perfectly complements the creamy ricotta filling.
Broccoli: Offers a fresh, slightly crunchy element that balances the richness of the cheese and sausage.
Cheese Trio: A combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan ensures every bite is packed with cheesy goodness.

This combination creates a dish that’s both indulgent and balanced, making it ideal for a variety of occasions.

The Art of Stuffed Shells

Stuffed shells are a versatile dish that allows for creativity and customization. The process of filling the shells and arranging them in a baking dish is as rewarding as the final product. Here’s why this dish has become a beloved staple in kitchens around the world:

Customizable Fillings: From spinach and mushrooms to ground beef and different cheeses, stuffed shells can be tailored to fit any taste or dietary preference.
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of pasta, sauce, and cheese is universally loved, making it a go-to dish for gatherings and potlucks.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Stuffed shells can be assembled in advance and refrigerated or frozen, making them a convenient option for busy schedules.

This particular recipe highlights the versatility of stuffed shells while introducing bold flavors and textures that make it truly unforgettable.

The Perfect Balance of Ingredients

The key to this dish’s success lies in the balance of its ingredients. Each component plays a specific role in creating a harmonious flavor profile:

Jumbo Pasta Shells: The perfect vessel for holding the rich, flavorful filling.
Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess and acts as the base for the filling, binding the ingredients together.
Italian Sausage: Provides a meaty, savory element that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese.
Broccoli: Introduces a fresh, slightly crunchy texture and adds a dose of nutrients.
Mozzarella and Parmesan: Bring melty, golden perfection to the dish while enhancing its savory notes.
Marinara Sauce: Ties everything together with its tangy, slightly sweet flavor, complementing the richness of the filling.

The result is a dish that’s indulgent yet balanced, with layers of flavor in every bite.

Why Broccoli is a Game-Changer

Including broccoli in the filling might not be traditional, but it’s a game-changer for several reasons:

Nutritional Boost: Broccoli adds vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the dish, making it more wholesome without compromising on flavor.
Texture Contrast: Its slight crunch contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling and tender pasta shells.
Flavor Enhancement: The mild bitterness of broccoli complements the richness of the cheese and sausage, creating a more complex flavor profile.

For those who might be hesitant about adding vegetables to comfort food, this recipe proves that the right balance can elevate a dish without overwhelming it.

Tips for Making Perfect Stuffed Shells

To ensure your Over-the-Top Stuffed Shells turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Cook Pasta Al Dente: The shells will continue to cook in the oven, so undercooking them slightly ensures they don’t become mushy.
Mix the Filling Thoroughly: Evenly combining the ingredients ensures every shell is packed with flavor in every bite.
Don’t Overfill: Overstuffing the shells can cause them to split or overflow during baking. A generous tablespoon of filling per shell is usually sufficient.
Spread Sauce Evenly: A layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish prevents the shells from sticking and adds extra flavor.
Cover While Baking: Covering the dish with foil during the initial baking period helps the shells cook evenly and prevents the cheese from burning.

Pairing Suggestions

These Over-the-Top Stuffed Shells are a complete meal on their own, but pairing them with complementary sides can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas:

Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the extra marinara sauce.
Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy shells.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for added color and nutrition.
Wine: A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Merlot pairs beautifully with the flavors of this dish.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion

These stuffed shells are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for a variety of occasions:

Family Dinners: The hearty filling and cheesy topping make this a comforting meal the whole family will love.
Special Occasions: The golden, bubbly presentation is sure to impress guests at any gathering.
Meal Prep: Assemble the dish ahead of time and bake when needed for a convenient weeknight dinner.

Additionally, the ability to customize the filling means you can adapt the recipe to suit different preferences or dietary restrictions, ensuring it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Conclusion: A Dish Worth Savoring

Over-the-Top Stuffed Shells are the ultimate combination of comfort and creativity. This recipe takes a beloved classic and enhances it with bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and a touch of green goodness. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a special celebration, this dish is sure to delight everyone at the table.

The creamy ricotta, savory sausage, and fresh broccoli come together in a tender pasta shell, all smothered in marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese. The result is a meal that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.

Add this recipe to your rotation, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a dish that’s equal parts delicious and memorable. It’s comfort food at its finest, with a twist that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Pin1

1 Shares

Over-The-Top Stuffed Pasta