Tuna-Stuffed Shells In Dill Sauce
Creamy tuna-stuffed pasta shells baked in a dill-flavored sauce with Swiss cheese and bread crumbs, offering comforting flavors perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray an 11 x 17-inch glass baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add chopped celery and onion, cooking until tender.
- In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of milk, 1 tablespoon of flour, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Add cubed Swiss cheese and chopped dill to the sauce, stirring until cheese melts and sauce is smooth.
- Stir in the bottled Ranch dressing and cooked vegetables, mixing well.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the tuna mixture and place in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle processed bread crumbs evenly over the stuffed shells.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, you can substitute low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese. If you're short on time, use canned tuna packed in oil for added flavor. Fresh dill can be replaced with dried dill weed, but adjust the quantity as dried herbs are more concentrated. Consider adding some chopped spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these tuna-stuffed shells with a light green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. They pair wonderfully with garlic bread or a side of steamed vegetables. For a special touch, consider serving alongside a bowl of Great Shrimp Dip for a delightful seafood-themed meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover tuna-stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna-Stuffed Shells In Dill Sauce contains roughly 423 calories, with 12g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1566mg per serving (68% 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 use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute Swiss cheese with other varieties like mozzarella or cheddar. Just keep in mind that the flavor and melting characteristics may vary. Experimenting with different cheeses can add a unique twist to the dish.
Is it possible to make these shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and assemble them in the baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the tuna and adding more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even lentils for protein. The dill sauce will still complement the flavors beautifully, making it a delicious option for non-meat eaters.
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).