These Stuffed Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Shells are an absolute hit for any pasta lover. The combination of roasted heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil pesto, and a cheesy ricotta filling makes every bite rich in flavor. Baked to perfection with a golden mozzarella topping, this dish brings together the best of summer’s fresh produce and cozy, comforting flavors. Not only is this dish visually stunning with its vibrant colors, but it’s also super easy to make. Whether you’re having a family dinner or hosting friends, these stuffed shells are sure to impress. Serve it with a crisp salad or warm garlic bread, and you’ve got yourself a meal everyone will love!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups heirloom tomatoes, quartered
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red chili flakes, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (plus more for topping)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large baking dish, combine the tomatoes, onion, garlic, thyme, butter, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until the tomatoes start to char and release their juices.
- Using an immersion blender or food processor, puree the roasted tomatoes until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream (if desired) and return the sauce to the baking dish.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells until al dente according to package directions, then drain.
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded provolone, and 1/2 cup of basil pesto.
- Spoon 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture into each shell and place the stuffed shells in the tomato sauce in the baking dish. Drizzle more pesto over the shells and top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 787 kcal per serving
Servings: 6 servings
The Perfect Comfort Meal for Any Season
If you’re looking for a recipe that combines the rich, comforting flavors of traditional Italian cuisine with a modern, home-cooked twist, then these Stuffed Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Shells are it. This dish captures the essence of comfort food with its cheesy, gooey filling and a vibrant, creamy tomato sauce. It’s a great way to showcase fresh ingredients while making something that feels like an indulgent treat. Whether you’re enjoying a chilly fall evening or a sunny spring day, this recipe brings a sense of warmth and satisfaction to your table.
The Story Behind the Recipe
Stuffed pasta shells, also known as “conchiglioni ripieni” in Italian, are a traditional pasta shape that’s just begging to be filled with all sorts of deliciousness. They’ve been enjoyed in Italy for generations and have become a popular dish worldwide for their versatility and comfort factor. This version takes a classic approach, pairing creamy ricotta and shredded provolone with a twist of fresh basil pesto for a burst of flavor. And instead of using store-bought tomato sauce, the dish elevates its taste by incorporating a homemade roasted heirloom tomato sauce that is both fresh and deeply flavorful.
The idea of roasting the tomatoes is a simple yet transformative technique. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, and when combined with garlic, onions, and thyme, the flavors become intensely savory and aromatic. Pureeing this roasted mixture creates a creamy sauce that perfectly complements the stuffed pasta shells.
A Versatile and Customizable Dish
What’s great about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily customize the filling to match your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some ways to make it your own:
- Add Protein: For a meatier version, incorporate cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or even shredded rotisserie chicken into the ricotta filling. The added protein makes the dish even heartier and is a great way to satisfy more meat-loving diners.
- Make It Spicy: If you’re someone who likes a bit of heat in your dishes, adding some red chili flakes to the cheese filling or a bit of crushed Calabrian chili to the sauce will give it a spicy kick.
- Go Green: Looking to add more veggies? Chopped spinach, kale, or mushrooms can be mixed into the ricotta filling, adding texture, nutrition, and flavor. Not only do they complement the basil pesto, but they also create a more balanced dish.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Notes
One of the standout aspects of this recipe is the use of fresh, wholesome ingredients. The creamy tomato sauce is made from ripe heirloom tomatoes, which are packed with vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and beneficial lycopene. The process of roasting the tomatoes helps to intensify their flavor without the need for added sugars or preservatives, making this sauce not only delicious but also healthier than many store-bought alternatives.
Ricotta cheese serves as the main base for the stuffing and is an excellent source of protein and calcium. Its mild flavor pairs beautifully with the nutty sharpness of provolone and the herbal brightness of basil pesto. Basil, a key ingredient in the pesto, is rich in essential oils and antioxidants, adding a fresh, aromatic touch to the dish.
With the dish offering around 787 calories per serving, it’s a filling meal that will leave you satisfied, and it’s ideal for fueling active days or for a weekend indulgence. It’s vegetarian-friendly by default but can easily be adapted for any dietary preference, making it a great all-around recipe to have in your culinary arsenal.
A Crowd-Pleasing Dish for Gatherings
The beauty of these Stuffed Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Shells is how well they lend themselves to entertaining. Their elegant appearance, with gooey melted cheese over bright red sauce and speckles of green basil, makes them look sophisticated and festive, even though they are deceptively simple to prepare. When you serve this dish, it feels special – almost like a culinary gift for your guests.
You can prepare these shells ahead of time, assembling the stuffed pasta in the sauce, and keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a stress-free option for dinner parties, family gatherings, or potlucks. And trust us – the combination of cheese, tomato, and pasta is always a crowd-pleaser, no matter the occasion!
The Secret to Perfect Stuffed Shells
There are a few tips that can help you make these stuffed pasta shells truly exceptional:
- Choose the Best Tomatoes: If possible, use fresh heirloom tomatoes for their unique flavors and vibrant colors. They add a natural sweetness to the sauce, making the dish taste fresh and flavorful.
- Undercook the Pasta Shells: When boiling the pasta shells, cook them just until they’re al dente. Remember, they’ll bake in the oven later, so you want to avoid overcooking them at this stage to maintain their shape and texture.
- Let It Rest: Once you pull the baked shells from the oven, let them sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly, making for a better-tasting dish.
Perfect Pairings
While the Stuffed Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Shells can certainly be enjoyed on their own, pairing them with a few sides can turn the meal into a full, satisfying spread. A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette works wonders to balance out the richness of the pasta. Or, if you’re feeling indulgent, serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up all the extra tomato sauce – it’s comfort food at its finest.
For a beverage pairing, a crisp, chilled Pinot Grigio or a medium-bodied Chianti pairs beautifully with the tomato sauce and cheese. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water infused with lemon or herbs is a refreshing complement to the flavors.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
So why is this recipe the best? It’s the balance of flavors, the freshness of the ingredients, and the ease of preparation. The combination of creamy cheese, herbaceous pesto, and sweet roasted tomatoes creates a symphony of flavors in every bite. The textures are perfectly layered – from the smooth tomato sauce to the tender pasta shells and gooey cheese filling.
Moreover, this recipe fits well into any dinner plan, whether you’re feeding picky eaters, vegetarians, or those who crave something a little extra special on their plate. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for a special occasion. And the best part? It’s comforting, flavorful, and sure to make everyone at the table happy.
Conclusion
These Stuffed Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Shells are more than just a dish – they’re a celebration of fresh ingredients, comforting flavors, and the joy of Italian cooking. It’s a versatile recipe that will quickly become a family favorite, offering the warmth of a homemade meal with the delicious flavors of a restaurant-quality pasta dish. Try this recipe for your next dinner, and you’ll understand why it’s a winner.
