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These Carbs Don't Count

These Stuffed Shells with Vodka Sauce are rich, creamy, and perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a flavorful ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan mixture, then baked in a homemade vodka sauce. The dish is topped with more cheese and broiled until golden and bubbly. This crowd-pleaser combines comforting textures with bold flavor and a touch of elegance.

16 Ingredients
MEDIUM
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Stuffed Shells with Vodka Sauce
Stuffed Shells with Vodka Sauce
Stuffed Shells with Vodka Sauce
Stuffed Shells with Vodka Sauce cover
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
1/4

Stuffed Shells with Vodka Sauce

By
These Carbs Don't Count
These Carbs Don't Count

Ingredients

plates
Milk and 5 other allergens identified

Instructions

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Instructions

1
|
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
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In a large bowl, combine ricotta, egg, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and parsley. Mix well and set aside.
3
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Cook jumbo shells in salted water until very al dente. Drain and toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
4
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In a large skillet, melt butter with a dash of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
5
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Add tomato paste and stir until well combined. Cook until slightly darkened in color, about 2–3 minutes.
6
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Pour in vodka and whisk. Let simmer for a few minutes to burn off the alcohol.
7
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Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let cook for 5–7 minutes, whisking frequently. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and parsley to match the ricotta mixture.
8
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Spread a layer of the vodka sauce in a large oven-safe baking dish.
9
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Fill each cooked shell with the ricotta mixture using a piping bag or spoon. Arrange filled shells over the sauce.
10
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Top shells with remaining vodka sauce, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
11
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Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20–25 minutes. Remove foil and broil until the top is golden and bubbly.
12
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Garnish with fresh basil and more Parmesan before serving.
Bite Tutorial

Smart Nutrition

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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Tips & Tricks (5)

  • Shell Selection Secrets 🐚
    Choose jumbo pasta shells that are thick and sturdy, ensuring they can hold the ricotta filling without tearing during baking.
  • Vodka Sauce Deglaze Technique 🍸
    When adding vodka to the tomato sauce, let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to burn off the alcohol and concentrate the flavor, creating a more refined sauce.
  • Ricotta Filling Moisture Control 🧀
    Drain ricotta cheese in a cheesecloth for 30 minutes before mixing to remove excess moisture, preventing a watery filling and ensuring a creamy, firm texture.
  • Broiling Brilliance 🔥
    Position your oven rack 6 inches from the broiler and watch carefully, rotating the dish for even browning - golden spots should appear within 2-3 minutes.
  • Cheese Layering Pro Tip 🧀
    Mix different cheese textures by combining creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and sharp Parmesan for a more complex and satisfying flavor profile.

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About the Cook

These Carbs Don't Count

These Carbs Don't Count

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Hi! I’m Angela and if you’re reading this you probably love carbs & pasta and you’ve come to the right place. I’m so excited to share delicious recipes, cooking tips, gluten free life & restaurant recs! Welcome carbies and subscribe for more content! Link above :)

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