If you're looking for a cheesy and delicious meal, look no further than 2 pieces of cheese stuffed shells. With a calorie count of 220 per serving, it's a filling dish that won't break the calorie bank.

But cheese stuffed shells aren't just tasty, they can also be nutritious. Depending on the ingredients used, this dish can be a great source of protein, calcium, and other important nutrients.

In this article, we'll explore the ingredients, preparation steps, nutritional benefits, and health concerns associated with cheese stuffed shells. We'll also provide tips on how to reduce calories and offer alternatives for those with dietary restrictions. Finally, we'll suggest some beverages and serving options to make the most of this scrumptious dish!

Delicious Cheese Stuffed Shells Recipe

To make cheese stuffed shells, you'll need a few key ingredients. Start with 12-14 jumbo pasta shells, which you'll cook according to package instructions. Then, in a separate bowl, mix together a filling made from 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese, and 1 egg. Add in any seasonings you like, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Once the shells are cooked and drained, stuff them with the cheese mixture and place them in a baking dish. Cover the shells with marinara sauce and bake for 25-30 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Serve hot and enjoy!

Ingredients for Cheese Stuffed Shells

The ingredients for cheese stuffed shells can vary depending on personal preference, but typically include jumbo pasta shells, a cheese filling (such as ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan), and marinara sauce. Additional seasonings and ingredients can be added to customize the dish, such as ground beef, spinach, or pesto. It's important to note that depending on the types and quantities of cheese used, this dish can be higher in fat and calories. Consider using low-fat or part-skim cheese to reduce the calorie count.

How to Make Cheese Stuffed Shells?

To make cheese stuffed shells, start by cooking jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions. In a separate bowl, mix together a cheese filling made from ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, and an egg. Stuff the cooked shells with the cheese filling and place them in a baking dish. Cover the shells with marinara sauce and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Calories in Cheese Stuffed Shells

A serving of 2 pieces of cheese stuffed shells contains around 220 calories. However, the calorie count can vary depending on the types and quantities of cheese used, as well as the added ingredients such as ground beef or spinach. To reduce the calorie count, consider using low-fat or part-skim cheese and limiting the amount of additional ingredients added.

Nutritional Benefits of Cheese Stuffed Shells

Cheese stuffed shells can provide a variety of important nutrients, including protein, calcium, and vitamins A and D (if made with dairy products). However, since this dish can also be high in fat and calories, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Consider adding spinach or other vegetables to increase the nutritional value of this dish.

Health Concerns for Cheese Stuffed Shells

Since cheese stuffed shells can be high in calories and fat, they should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies may need to modify this recipe or choose alternative cheeses. Additionally, adding too much ground beef can increase the risk for heart disease or high cholesterol.

Tips to Reduce Calories in Cheese Stuffed Shells

To reduce the calorie count of cheese stuffed shells, consider using low-fat or part-skim cheese, limiting the amount of ground beef or other high-fat ingredients, and adding vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers. Using a smaller portion size or serving the dish alongside a salad or other healthy side dish can also help to reduce overall calorie intake.

Alternative Cheeses for Stuffed Shells

Individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies can choose alternative cheeses for the filling, such as goat cheese or vegan cheese substitutes. These types of cheese may have different flavors or textures, so it's important to experiment and find the best fit for your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions for Cheese Stuffed Shells

Cheese stuffed shells can be served alone as a main dish or alongside a side salad or vegetable dish. Garnish with fresh herbs or additional grated cheese for added flavor and visual appeal.

Best Beverage to Pair with Cheese Stuffed Shells

Cheese stuffed shells pair well with a variety of beverages, including red wine, beer, or sparkling water. The choice of beverage can depend on personal preference and the other flavors and seasonings included in the dish.