Spam Stuffed Shells
Savory Spam stuffed shells feature tender pasta filled with a creamy mixture of eggs, cream cheese, and seasonings, perfect for a comforting and flavorful meal for any crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions.
- Drain the cooked shells and rinse in cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Prepare the filling by combining eggs, softened cream cheese, bread crumbs, minced onions, oregano, pepper, parsley flakes, Cajun seasoning, and chopped Spam.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the Spam mixture.
- Arrange stuffed shells in a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through and slightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider using ricotta cheese in place of cream cheese. You can also add some grated Parmesan for extra flavor. If you're looking for a bit of heat, incorporate diced jalapeños into the filling. To save time, you could use pre-cooked Spam or even try a vegetarian alternative for a different twist. Don't forget to taste the filling before stuffing the shells to adjust seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spam Stuffed Shells with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A simple marinara sauce drizzled over the top can enhance the flavors, or pair it with steamed vegetables for added nutrition. This dish also goes well with a creamy side, like Uncle Hootie'S Bubble Bread, for a comforting family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Spam Stuffed Shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but be sure to cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spam Stuffed Shells contains roughly 524 calories, with 17g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (73% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value), and calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 788mg per serving (34% 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 a day in advance. Assemble them in the baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure they are heated through.
What can I use instead of Spam?
If you want a healthier alternative, consider using cooked ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option. These substitutes can provide a similar texture while allowing you to customize the flavors to your liking.
Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly. To bake from frozen, add about 10-15 minutes to the cooking time, ensuring they are heated through completely.
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).