There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of garlic, mushrooms, and creamy sauce all tucked into warm, comforting pasta shells. This recipe for Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells is the ultimate cozy meal—perfect for a chilly evening or when you simply need a bowl of something comforting. Growing up, stuffed shells always meant a special occasion in our house. Whether it was a family dinner or a potluck with friends, this dish has a way of bringing people together. What makes this version extra special is the velvety garlic cream sauce paired with the earthy, savory flavor of sautéed mushrooms.

Imagine pulling a bubbling casserole dish out of the oven, the golden cheese melted just so, with the promise of rich, garlicky goodness in every bite. Whether you’re making this for a family dinner, meal-prepping for the week, or hosting a cozy gathering, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy Comfort Food: The garlic cream sauce paired with tender pasta shells makes for an indulgent, restaurant-quality dish right at home.
2. Simple, Wholesome Ingredients: No need to hunt for fancy ingredients—this dish is all about pantry and fridge staples coming together beautifully.
3. Customizable: Whether you’re vegetarian or looking to incorporate different veggies, this recipe is easy to tweak to suit your preferences.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: From weeknight dinners to impressing guests, this dish fits the bill for nearly every occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 20-25 jumbo pasta shells
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 12 ounces mushrooms, finely chopped (baby Bella or white mushrooms work well)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta Shells
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente. You don’t want them too soft since they’ll finish cooking in the oven. Drain and rinse the shells under cool water to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Mushroom Filling
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until the butter melts. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant—just about 30 seconds to a minute. Stir in the chopped mushrooms and sauté until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 6-8 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then remove the skillet from the heat.
3. Mix the Filling
   In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed mushrooms with ricotta, half of the mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until everything is evenly incorporated. Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
4. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
   In the same skillet used for the mushrooms, add the heavy cream and milk over medium heat. Stir constantly, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Add the remaining minced garlic and let the mixture simmer gently for 4-5 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the remaining Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff the Shells
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the garlic cream sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish. Using a spoon (or your hands, if you prefer!), stuff each shell with the mushroom filling and place them snugly in the dish, open side up.
6. Assemble and Bake
   Pour the remaining garlic cream sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring each one is coated. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top for that melty, golden finish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
7. Serve and Enjoy
   Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm, with a side of crusty bread or a light green salad to round out the meal.

Helpful Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta Shells: Since the shells will continue to cook in the oven, keep them slightly firm when boiling to avoid a mushy texture.
• Mushroom Variety: For a deeper, earthier flavor, try using a mix of mushrooms such as shiitake or oyster along with baby Bella.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed shells and sauce ahead of time, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
• Add Veggies: Want more veggies? Consider adding some finely chopped spinach or kale to the mushroom filling.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 4-6 servings
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

• For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use low-fat ricotta cheese.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual portions.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 35g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze these stuffed shells?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled stuffed shells (before baking) in a freezer-safe dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as instructed, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.

2. What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese or even mascarpone can work as substitutes for ricotta in this recipe. Just make sure to blend cottage cheese for a smoother texture.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells, and double-check that all other ingredients (like the cheese) are gluten-free.

Related Recipes

If you loved these Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells, you’ll want to try:

• Creamy Beef and Shells: The Ultimate Weeknight Comfort Dish
• Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef Recipe
• Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta

Conclusion

There’s something so satisfying about homemade stuffed shells—it’s like a little labor of love with a huge reward. The creamy garlic sauce combined with the earthy mushroom filling is a match made in heaven, and the bubbly, cheesy topping just seals the deal. Whether you’re treating your family to a comforting dinner or preparing a special dish for guests, this recipe is guaranteed to earn rave reviews. So, grab those pasta shells and get ready to create a meal everyone will remember!

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