Description
These Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food—cheesy, creamy, and packed with rich, garlicky mushroom goodness. Perfect for a cozy dinner or an elegant meal, this dish is both satisfying and full of flavor.
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Ingredients
For the Stuffed Shells:
- Jumbo Pasta Shells (12–15 shells) – The perfect size for stuffing.
- Ricotta Cheese (1 cup) – Creates a smooth, creamy filling.
- Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Melts beautifully for gooey goodness.
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated) – Adds a rich, savory depth.
- Mushrooms (2 cups, finely chopped) – Use button, cremini, or portobello.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Essential for bold, savory flavor.
- Spinach (1 cup, chopped, optional) – Adds color and freshness.
- Egg (1 large) – Helps bind the filling.
- Salt & Black Pepper (to taste) – Enhances the flavors.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – For sautéing the mushrooms.
For the Garlic Cream Sauce:
- Butter (3 tbsp) – Forms the rich base of the sauce.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Infuses the sauce with deep flavor.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Makes the sauce velvety and smooth.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth (½ cup) – Adds depth to the sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated) – Creates a creamy, cheesy sauce.
- Salt & Black Pepper (to taste) – Balances the flavors.
- Fresh Parsley (for garnish, optional) – Adds a fresh finish.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add jumbo shells and cook until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Mushroom Filling
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and sauté for 5–7 minutes until golden brown.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. If using spinach, add it now and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, sautéed mushrooms, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Step 3: Stuff the Shells
- Spoon the filling into each cooked pasta shell and place them in a greased baking dish.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and broth, whisking constantly. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth.
Step 5: Bake & Serve
- Pour the garlic cream sauce over the stuffed shells. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil, sprinkle extra mozzarella on top, and bake for 5 more minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm!
Notes
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: The shells will continue softening in the oven.
- Don’t Overfill: Leave a little space in each shell for the filling to expand.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: It melts better and enhances texture.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian-American