Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells Recipe: A Cozy Comfort Dish

Mushroom stuffed shells bring a delightful twist to classic pasta nights.

Savory fungi nestle perfectly inside tender pasta pockets, creating a mouthwatering experience.

garlic adds its magical punch, infusing each bite with rich, aromatic flavor.

Home cooks can easily craft this elegant dish without complicated techniques.

creamy cheese blends seamlessly with earthy mushrooms, promising a comforting meal that feels both sophisticated and approachable.

Weeknight dinners just got a serious upgrade with this irresistible recipe.

You’ll want to bookmark this culinary gem for your next dinner adventure.

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells Are A Treat

• Savor Creamy Comfort: Indulge in a luxurious pasta dish that wraps you in rich, velvety goodness with every bite, perfect for those craving a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Customize with Ease: Transform this recipe by swapping mushrooms with your favorite veggies or adding extra protein like chicken or sausage, making it adaptable to different tastes and dietary preferences.
• Family-Friendly Favorite: Packed with cheesy goodness and simple ingredients, this dish appeals to both kids and adults, creating a stress-free dining experience that brings everyone together around the table.
• Quick Weeknight Win: Requires minimal prep work and uses straightforward techniques, allowing you to whip up a restaurant-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

What’s Needed For Cheesy Mushroom Stuffed Shells

• Jumbo Pasta Shells: Large pasta shells perfect for holding the creamy mushroom filling.

• Ricotta Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Creamy cheeses that provide rich flavor and smooth texture to the filling.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melty cheese that creates a golden, bubbly topping for the dish.

• Mushrooms: Earthy vegetables that add depth and savory flavor to the stuffed shells.
• Egg: Binds the filling ingredients together and helps create a cohesive mixture.
• Garlic Powder: Provides a mild, aromatic garlic flavor throughout the filling.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Alfredo Sauce: Creamy white sauce that adds richness and moisture to the stuffed shells.
• Parsley: Fresh herb that provides a bright, green garnish and subtle freshness.

Simple Guide For Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells Joy

Step 1: Boil Pasta Shells

Drop jumbo pasta shells into a pot of boiling water.

Follow the package directions carefully to ensure perfect texture.

Once cooked, drain the shells and place them on a clean kitchen towel to cool and prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Mushroom Cheese Blend

• Ricotta cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Cooked mushrooms
• Egg
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine all ingredients.

Stir thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and well-integrated, creating a rich and creamy filling.

Step 3: Stuff The Shells

Carefully spoon the mushroom cheese mixture into each pasta shell.

Use a small spoon or piping bag to ensure even distribution.

Pack the filling generously, allowing it to slightly overflow for a rustic appearance.

Step 4: Prepare Baking Dish

Select a large baking dish and spread a generous layer of Alfredo sauce across the bottom.

This creates a delicious base that prevents the shells from sticking and adds extra flavor.

Step 5: Arrange Stuffed Shells

Gently place the filled pasta shells into the sauced baking dish.

Position them closely but not touching, allowing the sauce and cheese to melt between each shell.

Step 6: Top With Cheese

Sprinkle a hearty layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the stuffed shells.

The cheese will create a golden, crispy top during baking.

Step 7: Bake To Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.

Slide into a preheated oven at 375F (190C).

Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese turns bubbly and golden brown.

Step 8: Serve And Enjoy

Allow the stuffed shells to rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven.

This helps the filling set and makes serving easier.

Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Tips For Extra Creamy Mushroom Shells Every Time

• Select large, unbroken jumbo pasta shells to ensure easy filling and an attractive presentation.
• Cook mushrooms until golden brown and moisture evaporates to concentrate their rich, earthy flavor in the filling.
• Use room temperature Alfredo sauce for even spreading and prevent shells from becoming soggy during baking.
• Let mozzarella reach room temperature before sprinkling to help it melt smoothly and create a beautiful golden crust.
• Allow the dish to rest after baking so flavors meld together and the filling sets, making serving easier and more appetizing.

New Flavors For Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells Fans

• Vegan Mushroom Shells: Replace ricotta and Parmesan with tofu ricotta, use cashew Alfredo sauce, and add nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
• Gluten-Free Shell Option: Substitute jumbo pasta shells with gluten-free large shells or zucchini boats for a low-carb alternative.
• Meat Lover’s Version: Incorporate ground Italian sausage or cooked chicken into the mushroom filling for added protein and robust flavor.
• Mediterranean Inspiration: Mix in spinach, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes to create a Greek-inspired stuffed shell variation with Mediterranean herbs.

Ways To Serve Creamy Stuffed Shells With Herbs

• Hearty Dinner Companion: Pair this rich pasta dish with a crisp green salad tossed in light vinaigrette to balance the creamy shells.
• Fresh Herb Finishing Touch: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top right before serving to add brightness and aromatic complexity.
• Wine Pairing Perfection: Select a medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio that complements the creamy mushroom flavor profile.
• Protein Power-Up: Add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp on the side for extra protein and a complete meal experience.

Storage Instructions For Cheesy Stuffed Shells Leftovers

• Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or lid to prevent moisture loss and absorb other food odors.
• Wrap individual shells or entire dish in freezer-safe plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label container with date and contents.
• Place shells on microwave-safe plate. Cover with damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking temperature halfway through.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Place shells in baking dish, add splash of Alfredo sauce or water to prevent drying. Cover with foil, warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of mushrooms?

Yes, you can substitute button mushrooms with cremini, shiitake, or portobello mushrooms. Just ensure they are finely chopped and cooked before mixing into the filling.

• Is this recipe vegetarian?

While the dish is meatless, it contains dairy products like cheese and egg. For a fully vegetarian version, use plant-based alternatives for ricotta and mozzarella.

• How can I make the filling more flavorful?

Add fresh herbs like thyme or basil, or include some sautéed onions. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also boost the flavor profile of the mushroom mixture.

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells Recipe

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4.9 from 23 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells deliver Italian comfort with a rich, earthy twist. Cheesy pasta pockets packed with savory mushroom goodness promise a delightful dinner that satisfies your craving for homemade comfort.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 cup (240 milliliters / 8 ounces) ricotta cheese
• 1 cup (240 milliliters / 8 ounces) cooked mushrooms, finely chopped
• 2 cups (480 milliliters / 16 ounces) Alfredo sauce
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters / 2 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese

Cheese Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters / 4 ounces) grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Prepare jumbo pasta shells by boiling in salted water for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Carefully drain and allow to cool on a clean kitchen towel.
2. Sauté fresh mushrooms in olive oil until golden and moisture evaporates. Allow mushrooms to cool completely before incorporating into filling mixture.
3. Create creamy filling by blending ricotta, grated Parmesan, cooled mushrooms, beaten egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well-integrated.
4. Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce across the bottom of a ceramic baking dish to prevent sticking.
5. Generously stuff each pasta shell with the mushroom-cheese mixture, ensuring they are fully but not overly packed.
6. Arrange stuffed shells in a single layer within the prepared baking dish, nestling them close together.
7. Drizzle remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, covering them completely.
8. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese across the top, creating a uniform cheese layer.
9. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and cover baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
10. Bake covered for 20 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted and edges are golden brown.
11. Remove from oven and let rest for 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to settle and filling to set.
12. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot directly from baking dish.

Notes

• Make Shells Al Dente Cook pasta shells just until tender to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking, ensuring a perfect texture.
• Enhance Mushroom Flavor Sauté mushrooms with fresh thyme or rosemary before mixing into the filling to deepen their earthy, rich taste.
• Dairy-Free Alternative Replace ricotta and Parmesan with cashew-based cheese or tofu ricotta for a plant-based version that maintains creamy consistency.
• Prevent Dryness Cover the dish tightly with foil during initial baking to lock in moisture and prevent shells from drying out, creating a luscious, creamy result.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 405 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 540 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg