Shells A La Thom(8 To 10 Servings)
Creamy ricotta-stuffed pasta shells baked with Italian herbs, topped with savory tomato sauce and Parmesan, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the Savory Italian Tomato Sauce and keep it warm.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over low heat.
- Add ricotta cheese and stir until melted.
- Add cooked pasta shells and toss until well coated.
- Sprinkle chopped Italian parsley and grated Parmesan or Romano cheese over the pasta.
- Toss gently to combine.
- Season with salt and freshly ground pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a platter.
- Ladle some of the Savory Italian Tomato Sauce over the pasta and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of heavy cream or sour cream to the ricotta mixture. If you're out of Parmesan or Romano cheese, any hard cheese like Pecorino can work well as a substitute. Fresh herbs such as basil or oregano can enhance the flavor profile. For a protein boost, try adding cooked sausage or chicken, which complements this dish beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Shells A La Thom with a side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or a toasted baguette makes a great accompaniment. This dish pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Fettucini Parmesan With Vegetables for a hearty meal. For a complete experience, consider a glass of crisp white wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave, but be sure to add a splash of water or sauce to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shells A La Thom(8 To 10 Servings) contains roughly 28 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While medium or large macaroni shells are traditional, you can substitute with other pasta shapes like jumbo shells, rigatoni, or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose to ensure it's al dente.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian as it contains no meat. However, to enhance the flavors, you can add sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. This not only adds nutrients but also complements the creamy ricotta beautifully.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the pasta and ricotta mixture a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, combine them and heat gently, adding the sauce just before serving for the freshest taste.
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).