Description

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.

Ingredients

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.

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

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

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

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

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

Step 4: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

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

Step 5: Bake & Serve

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

Notes

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.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-American