Conchiglioni

Conchiglioni, also known as jumbo pasta shells, are a treat for pasta lovers who enjoy a hearty, filling dish that’s as impressive to look at as it is to eat. These large pasta shells are typically stuffed with savory fillings like ricotta, spinach, or even meats, and then baked in a flavorful sauce. Not only is conchiglioni delicious, but it’s also a great meal for gatherings, offering a blend of textures and flavors in each stuffed shell.

In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make a traditional ricotta and spinach-stuffed conchiglioni, complete with a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for dinner parties or a cozy night in, this recipe promises a satisfying, hearty dish that’s surprisingly easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Conchiglioni offers the best of both worlds: indulgent flavors with wholesome ingredients. The tender pasta shell encases a creamy, cheesy filling complemented by the tangy tomato sauce. Here are a few more reasons this dish stands out:

1. Customizable: The filling can be modified with additional ingredients like ground meat, mushrooms, or different cheeses to fit your taste.
2. Nutritious and Hearty: Packed with spinach, ricotta, and Parmesan, this dish is rich in protein, calcium, and iron, making it a wholesome choice.
3. Perfect for Meal Prep: Conchiglioni reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
4. Crowd-Pleaser: The visually appealing stuffed shells make a great impression, perfect for any special meal with family and friends.

Nutritional Information

This dish balances flavors and nutrients. Here’s a quick look at the approximate nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 5g

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• Pasta:

  • 20 jumbo conchiglioni shells
  • Salt (for boiling water)

• Filling:

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped (fresh or thawed frozen spinach)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

• Tomato Sauce:

  • 2 cups marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce).
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Preparation and Cooking Times

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the conchiglioni shells for about 10-12 minutes or until al dente. Drain and set aside, ensuring they don’t stick together.

2. Prepare the Filling
   In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, chopped spinach, Parmesan, half of the mozzarella, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

3. Prepare the Tomato Sauce
   In a skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Pour in the marinara sauce, stir well, and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

4. Assemble the Conchiglioni
   Spoon a layer of tomato sauce into a baking dish, covering the bottom. Carefully fill each pasta shell with the ricotta-spinach mixture and place them in the baking dish over the tomato sauce. Spoon the remaining tomato sauce over the stuffed shells, and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

5. Bake
   Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve
   Let the conchiglioni rest for a few minutes after baking. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot.

Tips and Variations

Here are some ways to customize this conchiglie recipe to suit your taste and preferences:

• Add Protein: Mix in cooked ground meat, such as beef, turkey, or Italian sausage, to the filling for a heartier dish.
• Cheese Options: Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or add cream cheese for extra creaminess.
• Vegetable Variation: For extra nutrition, add mushrooms, bell peppers, or even zucchini to the filling.
• Sauce Alternatives: Try a creamy Alfredo sauce or a spicy arrabbiata sauce for a unique twist.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce for a bit of heat.

How to Enjoy Your Conchiglioni

This dish is versatile, and there are many ways to enjoy it fully:

• As a Main Course: Serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Pairing Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, which complements the tomato-based sauce.
• With Sides: Garlic bread or a baguette is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Place the shells in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

What Makes Conchiglioni So Special?

Conchiglioni isn’t just delicious; it’s also a comforting, nostalgic dish that brings people together. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a festive occasion, the stuffed pasta shells always impress. This dish’s blend of creamy filling and savory sauce makes it satisfying and hearty, without being too heavy. With its warm, cheesy flavors and adaptable nature, it’s the perfect recipe to add to your rotation.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is packed with nutrients that make it both delicious and nourishing:

• Protein and Calcium: The ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella are high in protein and calcium, supporting muscle health and bone strength.
• Iron and Fiber: Spinach is loaded with iron and fiber, promoting better digestion and energy levels.
• Healthy Fats: Olive oil provides beneficial monounsaturated fats that are good for heart health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make conchiglioni ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the stuffed shells and refrigerate them (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking. When reheating, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

2. Can I use gluten-free pasta shells?
Absolutely! Substitute with gluten-free shells for a gluten-free version, and follow the cooking instructions on the package.

3. Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
For a vegan twist, use vegan ricotta, and vegan mozzarella, and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water). Opt for a dairy-free marinara sauce to complete the dish.

Conclusion

Conchiglioni is a delightful and flavorful pasta dish that brings together creamy filling, savory sauce, and tender pasta shells. Whether you’re a fan of classic Italian flavors or looking for a satisfying, customizable meal, this recipe will leave you satisfied. Easy to prepare and full of wholesome ingredients, it’s a great addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy it with loved ones, and let it become one of your go-to comfort dishes.