Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells

These Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells are a rich and comforting dish, packed with a cheesy, garlicky mushroom filling and smothered in a luscious cream sauce. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or a special gathering, this dish will impress with its deep flavors and creamy texture.

Stay in the flavor loop! Join our newsletter to receive this recipe and other delicious updates fresh to your inbox.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Creamy: Loaded with cheese and a velvety garlic sauce.
• Packed with Flavor: Mushrooms, garlic, and herbs bring an earthy depth.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for family dinners or special meals.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Stuffed Shells:

• Jumbo Pasta Shells (12–15 shells) – Perfect for holding the creamy filling.
• Ricotta Cheese (1 cup) – Makes the filling soft and creamy.
• Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Melts beautifully for a gooey texture.
• Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated) – Adds a sharp, nutty flavor.
• Mushrooms (2 cups, finely chopped) – Use button, cremini, or portobello for depth.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Infuses the filling with rich flavor.
• Spinach (1 cup, chopped, optional) – Adds color and nutrients.
• Egg (1 large) – Helps bind the filling together.
• Salt & Black Pepper (to taste) – Enhances the overall flavor.
• Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – For sautéing the mushrooms and garlic.

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• Butter (3 tbsp) – Forms the base of the sauce.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – The star ingredient for a bold flavor.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates a smooth, rich texture.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth (½ cup) – Adds depth to the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated) – Melts into the sauce for extra creaminess.
• Salt & Black Pepper (to taste) – Balances the flavors.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish, optional) – Adds a fresh finishing touch.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Skillet (for cooking mushrooms and garlic)
• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish
• Whisk
• Spoon for stuffing shells

How to Make Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add jumbo pasta shells and cook until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Mushroom Filling

2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and sauté for 5–7 minutes until golden brown.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. If using spinach, add it now and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, sautéed mushrooms, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

5. Spoon the filling into each cooked pasta shell and arrange them in a greased baking dish.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

6. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
7. Pour in heavy cream and broth, whisking constantly. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
8. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth.

Step 5: Bake & Serve

9. Pour the garlic cream sauce over the stuffed shells. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
10. Remove foil, sprinkle extra mozzarella on top, and bake for 5 more minutes until bubbly and golden.
11. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm!

What to Serve with This Dish

• Garlic bread or a crusty baguette
• A fresh green salad with balsamic dressing
• Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: The shells will continue cooking in the oven.
• Don’t Overfill: Leave a little space in each shell for the filling to expand.
• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: It melts better and enhances the texture.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Storing & Reheating

• Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Assemble, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 40 minutes.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or microwave for 1–2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cheese?
Yes! Try cottage cheese instead of ricotta or add Gruyère for a deeper flavor.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What mushrooms work best?
Cremini, button, or portobello all work well for this recipe.

Conclusion

These Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food—cheesy, creamy, and packed with rich, garlicky flavor. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a hit!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 380 | Protein: 18g | Carbohydrates: 32g | Fat: 22g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 550mg

Print