There’s nothing quite like a comforting dish of baked conchiglie. This Italian pasta, also known as “shells,” is cooked till al dente and then filled with a delicious mixture of cheese, meats, and vegetables.

Topped with a generous amount of tomato sauce and more cheese, it is then baked till golden and bubbly. The result is a mouthwatering and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

Ingredients:

Here are the ingredients you will need for this delectable baked conchiglie:.

• 1 pound conchiglie pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup chopped spinach
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the conchiglie pasta according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until they become translucent.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
5. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef mixture, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, and mix until well combined.
7. Fill each cooked conchiglie shell with the cheese and meat mixture and arrange them in the greased baking dish.
8. Pour the tomato sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure each shell is well covered.
9. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the shells.
10. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
11. Remove the aluminum foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden and bubbly.
12. Allow the baked conchiglie to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

Baked conchiglie is delicious on its own but can be served with a fresh green salad and garlic bread on the side for a complete meal. You can also garnish with fresh basil leaves or grated Parmesan cheese for an added touch of flavor.

Storage:

If you have leftovers, make sure to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Baked conchiglie will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

Related Article The daily dish: baked bowties

Variations:

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheese or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some added heat.

Conclusion:

Baked conchiglie is a delightful dish that brings together the flavors of Italy into a mouthwatering and comforting meal. Whether enjoyed on a cozy evening or served at a family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.

With its blend of pasta, cheese, meats, and vegetables, it is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.