From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
1/4
Stuffed Shells with Vodka Sauce
Instructions
1
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
In a large bowl, combine ricotta, egg, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and parsley. Mix well and set aside.
3
Cook jumbo shells in salted water until very al dente. Drain and toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
4
In a large skillet, melt butter with a dash of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
5
Add tomato paste and stir until well combined. Cook until slightly darkened in color, about 2–3 minutes.
6
Pour in vodka and whisk. Let simmer for a few minutes to burn off the alcohol.
7
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
Spread a layer of the vodka sauce in a large oven-safe baking dish.
9
Fill each cooked shell with the ricotta mixture using a piping bag or spoon. Arrange filled shells over the sauce.
10
Top shells with remaining vodka sauce, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
11
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20–25 minutes. Remove foil and broil until the top is golden and bubbly.
12
Garnish with fresh basil and more Parmesan before serving.
My Calorie Intake
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Tips & Tricks (5)
- Toast Your Garlic First 🧄Mince fresh garlic and bloom it in butter and olive oil for 30-45 seconds before adding tomato paste to unlock deep, sweet flavors and prevent bitter burnt tastes in your vodka sauce.
- Chill Your Ricotta Mixture 🧊Refrigerate the ricotta filling for at least 30 minutes before stuffing—this firms it up, making it easier to spoon into shells without tearing and ensuring even, consistent filling distribution.
- Deglaze with Vodka Properly 🥃Let vodka simmer for 2-3 minutes after adding to allow the alcohol to cook off completely, concentrating the flavor while your cream base stays perfectly smooth without any harsh alcohol bite.
- Reserve Pasta Water for Sauce Consistency 💧Save 1 cup of starchy pasta cooking water to adjust your vodka sauce thickness—adding just 2-3 tablespoons creates a silky, clinging sauce that coats shells beautifully without being too heavy.
- Broil Under Watchful Eyes 👀Keep your oven door cracked open while broiling the final 2-3 minutes to achieve golden, bubbly cheese without scorching—watch constantly since broiler intensity varies and timing can shift quickly.
Recipe Facts
Diet at a Glance
Vegetarian
Low Sugar
My Calorie Intake
Smart Nutrition 
Nutrition Per Serving
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Glycemic Analysis
Glycemic Index
Glycemic Load
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