Description
Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Shells
These Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Shells are a decadent and elegant appetizer or main course. They’re perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Ingredients:
1 (15-ounce) package jumbo shells
1 pound ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 (15-ounce) jar marinara sauce
6 slices bacon, cut in half lengthwise
Instructions:
Cook the jumbo shells according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Stuff each shell with the ricotta mixture.
Wrap each stuffed shell with 2 half-slices of bacon.
Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish.
Pour marinara sauce over the shells.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve immediately.
Tips:
You can add other ingredients to the ricotta mixture, such as spinach, mushrooms, or ground beef.
Serve the stuffed shells with your favorite side dishes, such as a green salad or garlic bread.
These stuffed shells can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake.
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Wrapped Stuffed Shells
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep & Cook Shells: Boil jumbo shells in salted water until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water to stop cooking, and lay them on a towel to dry.
2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix ricotta, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
3. Stuff & Wrap: Using a spoon, carefully fill each shell with the cheese mixture. Take two half-slices of bacon and wrap them in a criss-cross pattern around each stuffed shell, tucking the ends underneath.
4. Assemble for Baking: Place the bacon-wrapped shells snugly in a single layer in a greased baking dish. Pour your marinara sauce evenly over the top, ensuring some sauce gets between the shells.
5. Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 20-25 minutes. The dish is ready when the bacon is crispy and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these rich shells immediately as a show-stopping main course. Pair with a crisp arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a fuller meal, add a side of roasted asparagus or garlic knots to soak up the extra sauce. They also make an impressive passed appetizer for a party.
How-to Summary
Cook shells, mix ricotta with Parmesan, garlic, and herbs. Stuff shells, wrap each with two half-slices of bacon, place in a dish, cover with marinara sauce, and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until bacon is crisp and cheese is bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare these ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the stuffed and wrapped shells, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the sauce just before baking, and you may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Can I use a different cheese? Absolutely. For a sharper flavor, substitute part of the ricotta with cottage cheese or add some shredded mozzarella to the filling mixture.
How do I prevent the bacon from getting soggy? Ensure your stuffed shells are dry before wrapping. For extra crispiness, you can partially cook the bacon strips before wrapping, though this is not required.
Can I freeze bacon-wrapped stuffed shells? It’s not recommended. The ricotta filling can become grainy, and the bacon will not crisp properly upon reheating.
What if I don’t have jumbo shells? You can use manicotti tubes as a good alternative. Simply fill the tubes with the cheese mixture and wrap with bacon.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta shells initially, as they will soften further in the oven. Do not overstuff the shells, or they may burst during wrapping or baking. Ensure the bacon is wrapped snugly but not too tightly, as it will shrink. Finally, do not skip rinsing the cooked shells in cold water, as this prevents them from sticking together.
Conclusion
Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Shells transform a classic Italian dish into a luxurious, crowd-pleasing meal. The combination of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and savory marinara is irresistible. With the ability to prepare components ahead, this recipe is perfect for creating a memorable dining experience with minimal last-minute effort. Give this decadent twist a try for your next special dinner.
