Halloween Cheese-Stuffed Shells Halloween

Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that will have your guests raving this Halloween, then let me introduce you to my delightful Halloween Cheese-Stuffed Shells! This spooky yet scrumptious recipe combines the comfort of cheesy pasta with a fun Halloween twist that will charm both kids and adults alike. I still remember the first time I made these for a Halloween party—my friends couldn’t get over how cute they looked, filled with creamy cheese and baking to a beautiful golden hue. You wouldn’t believe how quickly they vanished!

What’s unique about these stuffed shells is not just the delectable filling but also the way they can be decorated to resemble little ghosts or goblins, which can be a fun activity to get everyone involved. So, whether you’re hosting a spooky soirée or just want to celebrate the season, these cheese-stuffed shells will surely add some festive flair to your table.

What’s in Halloween Cheese-Stuffed Shells?

Jumbo Pasta Shells: These are the stars of the show! They are large enough to hold all the delicious filling and make for an appealing presentation. You can find these in any grocery store; just make sure to grab plenty!

Ricotta Cheese: Creamy and rich, ricotta is the base of our filling. It adds a wonderful texture and flavor to the dish. I prefer using whole milk ricotta for that extra creaminess.

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Ah, the classic stretchy cheese! Mozzarella will melt beautifully, making the dish ooey-gooey and utterly irresistible.

Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle on top adds a nice salty crunch and contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling.

Egg: This is used to bind the cheese mixture together, ensuring the filling stays intact during cooking.

Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs adds a flavorful kick to the filling, giving it that Italian flair.

Marinara Sauce: A good marinara is essential for drizzling over our shells. You can make your own or grab a jar from your local grocery store— whatever saves you time during the Halloween rush!

Black Olives: For decoration! These little gems can be sliced and added on top of the shells to create fun spooky faces.

Is Halloween Cheese-Stuffed Shells Good for You?

Alright, let’s talk about health! While these cheesy delights are definitely a treat, they do come with some considerations.

Pasta: High in carbohydrates, pasta provides energy, but keeping portions in check is key if you’re watching your intake. Opting for whole wheat shells can add more fiber to the dish.

Cheese: Loaded with calcium and protein, cheese is fantastic for your bones. However, it can also be high in calories and fat, so moderation is the name of the game—unless it’s Halloween, then you can indulge a bit!

Egg: These are great for protein and nutrients, so there’s no harm in including them in your filling.

Overall, these Halloween Cheese-Stuffed Shells are a balanced dish that offers comfort and joy, perfect for a fun celebration!

Ingredients List:

– 12 Jumbo Pasta Shells (serves 4-6)
– 1 cup Ricotta Cheese
– 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
– 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
– 1 Egg
– 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
– 2 cups Marinara Sauce
– Black Olives (for decoration)

How to Make Halloween Cheese-Stuffed Shells?

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), and boil a pot of salted water for the pasta. Cook your jumbo shells according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, egg, and Italian seasoning. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

3. Take a spoonful of the cheese mixture and stuff each shell generously. Don’t be shy; pack it in there!

4. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells.

5. Sprinkle some extra mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top for that cheesy goodness!

6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Once cooled slightly, it’s time to get creative! Slice black olives into halves or quarters, and use them to create spooky faces on top of the shells.

Spooktacular Serving Suggestions!

To elevate the Halloween vibes, plate these cheese-stuffed shells with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. You can even sprinkle some chopped parsley for a pop of color—or is that a ghostly apparition? Don’t forget to gather around and take fun photos of your haunted pasta before diving in!

Trust me, these Halloween Cheese-Stuffed Shells are bound to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, make some of these cheesy delights, and enjoy the festive spirit! I absolutely can’t wait to hear how they turn out, so feel free to share your spooky creations with me!

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