Broccoli-Stuffed Shells
Broccoli-Stuffed Shells feature tender pasta shells filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta, broccoli, and Monterey Jack cheese, baked in a flavorful tomato sauce. This comforting dish combines cheesy goodness with healthy greens, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests who enjoy hearty, vegetable-filled pasta recipes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a small skillet, melt margarine over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion; cook until tender but not browned.
- Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a large bowl, stir together Ricotta cheese and egg.
- Add cooked, chopped broccoli and shredded Monterey Jack cheese; mix well.
- Cook jumbo pasta shells in boiling water for 8 to 10 minutes until tender but firm; drain.
- Rinse shells in cold water; drain again.
- Stuff each shell with approximately 2 tablespoons of broccoli-cheese mixture.
- Arrange stuffed shells in a baking dish.
- Pour crushed tomatoes with puree over the shells.
- Sprinkle with Hidden Valley Ranch salad dressing mix.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic or Italian herbs to the onion while sautéing. If you're short on time, pre-packaged frozen broccoli can be a convenient substitute. For a creamier filling, mix in a bit of sour cream or cream cheese into the Ricotta. You can also experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella or feta, for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
These Broccoli-Stuffed Shells pair beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving with a light marinara sauce or a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside a dish like Vegetarian Lasagne to create a filling and satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish covered with foil in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings if you're short on time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Stuffed Shells contains roughly 2722 calories, with 10g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 283g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2634mg per serving (115% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells in advance. Assemble them in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If baking from cold, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of Ricotta cheese?
If you don't have Ricotta on hand, you can substitute it with cottage cheese, cream cheese, or even goat cheese for a different flavor. Just make sure to blend it well to achieve a smooth consistency before mixing in the egg and other ingredients.
Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked stuffed shells for up to 3 months. Just assemble them in a baking dish, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding a bit of extra time if needed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).