The aroma of Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells wafts through the air, inviting you to dive into a plateful of indulgence. These pasta shells are filled with a savory blend of garlic, cream, and mushrooms that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance. Picture this: gooey cheese melting over succulent mushrooms, all tucked into those perfectly shaped shells just waiting for a cozy evening meal. For more inspiration, check out this Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf recipe.
This dish is not just food; it’s a hug on a plate. With every bite, memories flood back—perhaps of family dinners where laughter echoed around the table or lazy Sunday afternoons spent cooking together. Perfect for date nights or when you simply need to treat yourself, these stuffed shells promise an explosion of flavor that’s as comforting as your favorite old sweater.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The creamy texture and rich flavors make this dish irresistible and satisfying.
- It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for entertaining guests.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any table.
- Plus, it’s versatile—you can easily swap in seasonal veggies or proteins based on your pantry!
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Jumbo Pasta Shells: You’ll need about 20-24 shells, which are perfect for holding all that delicious filling.
- Fresh Mushrooms: Use cremini or button mushrooms for their rich flavor; be sure to chop them finely.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring out the best flavors; minced garlic is key for that aromatic punch.
- Cream Cheese: This adds a delightful creaminess; let it soften before mixing to ensure smooth blending.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds a salty kick; use fresh if possible to elevate the dish.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds tanginess and balances the richness of the filling.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley is perfect for garnishing; it adds color and freshness to your dish.
For the Sauce:
- Heavy Cream: This is essential for creating that luscious sauce that blankets your stuffed shells.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs will enhance the overall flavor profile—think oregano and basil!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside on a baking sheet so they don’t stick together.
Step 2: Sauté Those Mushrooms
In a large skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil. Toss in the chopped mushrooms and minced garlic. Sauté until mushrooms are golden brown and have released their moisture—about five minutes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, combine cooked mushrooms with softened cream cheese, grated parmesan, sour cream, and chopped parsley. Mix well until you have a creamy filling that sets your heart aflutter.
Step 4: Stuff Those Shells
Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with about two tablespoons of the creamy mushroom mixture. Place them in a greased baking dish snugly side by side.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet used for mushrooms, pour in heavy cream and stir in Italian seasoning over medium-low heat until warmed through. Drizzle this heavenly sauce over stuffed shells.
Step 6: Bake It Up
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (shiny side down) and bake for about 25 minutes until heated through. Remove foil during the last five minutes so top gets slightly golden!
Transfer to plates and garnish with extra parsley or parmesan if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy these creamy garlic mushroom stuffed shells while savoring every mouthful—it’s like being wrapped in comfort food bliss!
You Must Know
- This creamy garlic mushroom stuffed shells recipe is not just a feast for your taste buds; it’s also a delight to make.
- With its rich flavors and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to impress everyone at the dinner table.
- Perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your pasta shells while sautéing garlic and mushrooms. Once the shells are al dente, prepare the creamy sauce, and mix in your filling. Layer it all together, and bake until bubbly perfection emerges!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the mushrooms for spinach or ricotta cheese for a twist on this classic. You could even toss in some sun-dried tomatoes or herbs for added flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350 degrees until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect creamy garlic mushroom stuffed shells, ensure your pasta is not overcooked—al dente is key.
- Also, let your filling cool before stuffing to prevent soggy shells.
- Lastly, don’t skimp on cheese; it’s what makes this dish truly decadent!
Sharing this recipe reminds me of that one dinner party where I wowed my friends with these stuffed shells. Their delighted faces were priceless—and I might have taken a little too much pride in their compliments!
FAQs:
What are Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells?
Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells are a delightful pasta dish filled with a rich mixture of creamy cheese and sautéed mushrooms. This dish combines the umami flavor of garlic and mushrooms with the smooth texture of ricotta and mozzarella. pair with a comforting soup Stuffed into large pasta shells, this recipe creates a comforting meal perfect for dinner or special occasions. It’s easy to make and is sure to impress family and friends.
How do I prepare the filling for Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells?
To prepare the filling for Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells, start by sautéing finely chopped garlic and mushrooms in olive oil until they become tender. Then, mix them with ricotta cheese, grated mozzarella, fresh herbs like parsley, salt, and pepper. pair with grilled lemon chicken Ensure that the mixture is creamy and well-blended. This flavorful filling ensures every bite of your stuffed shells bursts with deliciousness.
Can I make Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells ahead of time. Prepare the filling and stuff the shells as directed in the recipe. Place them in a baking dish, cover with sauce and cheese, then refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. add grilled shrimp skewers When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them in a preheated oven. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells?
You can pair Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells with a variety of side dishes. A simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette complements this rich pasta dish beautifully. Additionally, garlic bread or crusty Italian bread works well for soaking up any leftover sauce. try another creamy pasta dish For a refreshing touch, consider serving steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus alongside your meal.
Conclusion for Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells:
Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells deliver comfort food at its finest. The combination of rich cheese and savory mushrooms creates an unforgettable taste experience. With easy preparation steps and the option to make them ahead of time, these stuffed shells are perfect for any occasion. Serve them with a fresh salad or crusty bread to complete your meal. Enjoy this delightful dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at your table!
Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells are a comforting pasta dish that combines jumbo shells filled with a savory mixture of sautéed mushrooms, cream cheese, and garlic, all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and delightful textures, making it a go-to choice for any pasta lover.
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups fresh mushrooms (cremini or button), finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped mushrooms and minced garlic in olive oil until golden brown. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix the cooked mushrooms with cream cheese, parmesan cheese, sour cream, and parsley until smooth.
- Fill each shell with about two tablespoons of the mushroom mixture and place them in a greased baking dish.
- In the same skillet, combine heavy cream and Italian seasoning; warm through and drizzle over the stuffed shells.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) covered for 25 minutes. Remove foil for the last five minutes to brown the top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider mixing in spinach or ricotta cheese. - You can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time and store them uncooked in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
