Eggplant Parmesan Stuffed Shells
Eggplant Parmesan Stuffed Shells - A Delicious Italian Delight!
Eggplant Parmesan Stuffed Shells is a mouth-watering Italian dish that is sure to impress your guests. This dish is a perfect combination of eggplant, parmesan cheese, and pasta shells. It is a vegetarian dish that is easy to make and is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- 16 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
Cooking Tips:
- Use a mandoline slicer to slice the eggplant into thin, even rounds.
- Roast the eggplant slices in the oven to remove excess moisture and enhance the flavor.
- Cook the pasta shells al dente, so they hold their shape when stuffed.
Cooking Process:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Arrange the eggplant slices on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil.
3. Roast the eggplant for 20-25 minutes, until tender and lightly browned.
4. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, basil, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
6. Spread a layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
7. Stuff each pasta shell with a spoonful of the cheese mixture and a slice of roasted eggplant.
8. Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top.
9. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
11. Serve hot and enjoy!
Appearance and Taste:
Eggplant Parmesan Stuffed Shells are a beautiful dish with a golden-brown top and a creamy, cheesy filling. The roasted eggplant adds a smoky flavor and a meaty texture to the dish. The marinara sauce is tangy and flavorful, and the combination of cheeses creates a rich and satisfying taste. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a special occasion with friends and family.
Type of Dish: Vegetarian Pasta
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Parmesan Cheese, Pasta Shells
